This wave of the Ipsos B&A Consumer Confidence Barometer was conducted from the 24th June to 9th July 2026.
Overall consumer confidence has improved again, from -59 in June to -52 in July (those feeling downbeat versus those feeling more upbeat). This compares with the low point of -65 in April.
Of course this is still deeply in negative territory, but at least it is heading in the right direction. The holiday season and fine weather may also affect the mood music.
64% believe that the country will be worse off in the year ahead while just one in eight expect the country’s economy to improve. That said, negativity has trended downwards for the third month in a row.
Dubliners continue to be most upbeat. As seen previously, confidence is lowest among females, those over the age of 55 and Blue-Collar workers. These groups have been consistently the most pessimistic over time.
Yet unemployment hovers around five per cent.
The proportion of households who claim to be “coping” with the rising prices stands at 65% (up four points since June). A consistent one in five say that they are struggling to some extent.
Nearly one in four (24%) believe their personal disposable income will increase over the next 12 months, driven by Dubliners.
As seen previously, throughout all financial metrics, Dubliners are more upbeat on their prospects for the year ahead.
In total, a shade over half (51%) think they will spend less over the year ahead, versus just one in seven (15%) planning to spend more, leading to a net gap of -36, similar to June.
In terms of savings, 46% expect to save less, with over one in five (22%) planning to keep more money aside. Again, the net gap (-24) closely mirrors June results.
So, what worries Ireland most? The cost-of-living continues to be the most pressing concern (55%), followed by housing (41%). That said, the impact of the cost-of-living result has fallen from 63% in May and 58% in June. Immigration and Healthcare are also prominent.
Survey results are based on a sample of 1,016 adults aged 16+, quota controlled in terms of age, gender, socio-economic class, and region to reflect the profile of the adult population of the Republic of Ireland. All interviewing was conducted via Ipsos B&A’s Acumen Online Barometer.
For more information, please contact Paul Moran (Director): paul.moran@ipsos.com
