Brits set to shift from saving to investing in 2026
New Moneybox research reveal the UK’s 2026 financial mindset.
In a recent survey, we found that Brits are preparing to be more ruthless with their spending in 2026 – ditching takeaways, cancelling unused subscriptions and cutting back on nights out in a bid to strengthen their financial future.
- 30% of those planning to cut back want to prioritise investing, and
- 19% are focused on achieving their financial goals as quickly as possible
Luxury purchases (29%) and fashionable items (29%) are among the first to be culled, alongside everyday treats such as takeaway coffees (18%).
The findings come as rising living costs continue to squeeze household budgets. Our research shows average monthly grocery bills have increased by 14%, rising from £313.09 to £355.66, while typical monthly rent and mortgage costs jumped by 24% between 2024 and 2025 – from £531.97 to £657.58.
Despite this, many are already taking action. Spending on takeaways has dipped by nine per cent year-on-year, falling from £77.58 to £70.72, as people look to free up extra cash for their priorities.
Those savings are being redirected towards long-term goals, with 28% aiming to build or boost their emergency fund, 20% putting more aside for retirement and 18% planning home improvements.
As 2025 draws to a close, more than a third (37%) say they are in a better financial position than when the year began, compared with 19% who feel worse off. Progress towards financial goals (31%), improved budgeting (28 %) and positive investment returns (25%) have all helped, while 28 % benefited from a pay rise and 21% successfully paid down debt.
Brian Byrnes, Director of Personal Finance at Moneybox, said: “Regularly reviewing your spending is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to build better financial habits. Small changes made consistently can unlock money you didn’t even realise you were spending. Even modest mindset shifts – like committing just 30 minutes a week to your personal finances – can make a meaningful difference over time.”
Looking ahead, optimism remains high. More than half (57%) of those surveyed are confident they will continue to get their finances back on track in the year ahead. Among those feeling positive, 47% already have a plan in place to save more, 28% feel more capable of managing their money and 26% have set clear financial targets for 2026.
Motivation is also translating into action, with 15% committed to investing more regularly. Overall, 32% proactively invested in 2025, and nearly two-thirds (65%) say they felt more confident doing so than in 2024.
That confidence is being driven by better understanding, with 44% feeling more informed about investing, while 35% returned to the market after previously seeing good returns. A further 33% said saving more this year boosted their confidence to invest, and 25% pointed to improved market stability.
Brian Byrnes added: “This research shows that people aren’t just tightening their belts – they’re becoming far more intentional with their money. Rising costs have forced tough choices, but confidence is growing as people get clearer on their goals and take action. When people feel informed and supported, financial confidence becomes the unlock that turns good intentions into better financial outcomes.”
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