UK adults spend average 22 hours a week worrying about money, survey shows

A June 2024 survey commissioned by the thinkmoney app found that 65% of UK adults spend time worrying about their finances, averaging about 22 hours per week. The highest levels were reported in the North East (26.6 hours), followed by the North West (24.6 hours) and the South West (24.0 hours), while Scotland recorded the lowest at 17.3 hours.

People in households earning less than £15,000 reported 29.2 hours of weekly financial worry, compared with 16.2 hours for those in households earning over £100,000. More than a third (31%) said they had cut back on essentials such as food or heating, and 28% checked their bank balance multiple times a day for reassurance. Around 30% said money concerns stopped them making future plans, and 28% said it reduced their confidence in everyday spending.

Thinkmoney consumer expert Vix Leyton said, “We often measure money problems in pounds and pence, but this research suggests the real cost is something much more valuable – our time and attention.”