● More than a third (35%) of UK adults were saving more than usual in Q3 2026, up 7.5 percentage points from Q2

● 61% of Millennials said they were saving more than usual, up from 38% in Q1

● While one third (34%) of Brits said a lack of disposable income was preventing them from saving more

London, 13 October 2026: More than a third (35%) of UK adults said they were saving more than usual in Q3 2026, a rise from 28% in Q2, according to the latest SaveUp Quarterly Savings Index from Kent Reliance.

The increase comes as households look ahead to the Autumn Budget on 28 October. Almost one in five (19%) specifically said they were increasing their monthly savings as a precaution ahead of the Budget.

Millennials drive the savings rebound

The rise was driven particularly strongly by younger generations, with Millennials recording the biggest increase. More than six in ten (61%) Millennials said they were saving more than usual, up from 40% in Q2, a significant increase in just three months. Gen Z also remained highly savings-active, with 51% saving more than usual, up from 42% in Q2.

The picture is less positive among older generations, with just 20% of Gen X and 15% of Baby Boomers saying they were saving more than usual.

UK adults saying 'I'm saving more than I usually do' (% agree) - View table of results here: [https://tinyurl.com/mt56xxu3]

Saving more but not necessarily feeling better off

This rise in saving isn't being felt equally, and it doesn't mean household finances are any easier.

A third (34%) of UK adults said a lack of disposable income was preventing them from saving more. This suggests that, for many households, increased saving is a deliberate effort being made despite continued pressure on budgets, rather than a sign that financial pressures have disappeared.

The reasons for saving also vary significantly between generations. Younger adults are more likely to be saving towards milestones and immediate goals, while retirement becomes increasingly important among older generations.

Budget uncertainty prompts precautionary saving

The October Budget also influenced how people managed their money.

Almost one in five UK adults (19%) said they were increasing their monthly savings as a precaution ahead of the Budget, while 23% were cutting back spending in case taxes rise.

A further 15% were delaying a major purchase or financial decision and 12% were moving money into or out of an ISA or pension ahead of potential changes to the rules.

The findings suggest that some of the increase in savings activity is precautionary, with households taking steps to build a financial buffer while they wait for greater clarity over the economic and policy outlook.

Louise Halliwell, Group Savings Director, Kent Reliance, said:

“It's encouraging to see more people saving in Q3, with Millennials leading the way. Six in ten Millennials telling us they're saving more than usual is a significant jump in just three months, and it shows that determined saving can continue even when household budgets are under pressure.

“However, the broader picture is more complicated, with many saving as a precaution while uncertainty around the Budget remains. People are trying to build a buffer before they know exactly what they're planning for.

“That's why it's important to remember that building a savings habit doesn't have to mean putting away a large amount every month. Saving doesn't have to be all or nothing. Setting a realistic target and making regular contributions can help create a financial cushion over time.

“With so much uncertainty ahead of the Budget, it's also a good moment to review where your savings are held. A few minutes spent checking that your money is working as hard as it can is one of the simplest ways to feel more in control, whatever is announced on 28 October.”

ENDS

Methodology

The findings are based on a nationally representative online poll of 1,500 UK adults aged 18+. Fieldwork was conducted between 7th and 16th September 2026. Question design and analysis was conducted by Trajectory. Potentia Insight provided the online sample.

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