The cost of living, social issues and housing are top of mind for discontented voters ahead of Friday's general election, according to Core.

Close to three in five people are either most concerned by the cost of living, social issues or housing while the remainder of the electorate is content and hoping for stability, health and peace, the November 2024 Mindset report shows.

Around 1.5m people are very or extremely concerned about the affordability of everyday items and feel the issue is getting worse.

This group skews older -- around 45% are 55+ -- reflecting how economic pressures disproportionately affects retirees and working-age adults.

Among them, 43% face precarious living arrangements, and report author Finian Murphy said the findings highlight a widening gap between Ireland’s economic growth and the lived realities of many, particularly those on fixed incomes.

Beyond personal finances, 59% or 1.3m people feel societal and political responses to pressing issues are working. The group is "highly attuned" to challenges such as emigration (72%), the rise of far-right ideologies (62%) and misinformation (50%).

Many within the cohort are motivated by a sense of urgency and are committed to advocating for change, reflecting their dissatisfaction with current systems and their hope for a more equitable society.

Housing remains a critical issue for 906,000 people, particularly younger adults (51% under 36) and urban residents.

Renters, those in social housing, and individuals living with parents account for 61% of this group, underscoring the persistent challenges in securing affordable and stable living conditions.

For these citizens, the housing crisis is not an abstract policy debate but a personal and pressing concern, exacerbated by broader financial struggles, Murphy said.

Around 347,000 people identify all three of the cost of living, social issues and housing as key concerns, and 1m link financial strain with either housing or societal challenges.

In total, 2.2m adults, representing 57% of the population, cite at least one of these areas as a major issue.

"The interconnected nature of these challenges reflects a population not only facing individual struggles but also united in their call for change. With a majority expressing dissatisfaction and a desire for improvement, the question remains: who will respond?," said Murphy.

"The Mindset data provides a clear picture of a nation seeking answers. As financial pressures persist, societal issues evolve, and the housing crisis deepens, those in positions of influence must act decisively to address these concerns, ensuring the demands of Ireland’s citizens lead to meaningful, lasting solutions."

(Pic: RollingNews.ie)