Singaporeans see better career growth at home, but job security worries persist

Singaporeans are increasingly confident in the nation’s ability to offer better career opportunities than overseas markets, according to the latest findings from YouGov’s Singapore Consumer Sentiment Tracker.

The study revealed that 44% of Singaporeans believe the country provides stronger career growth prospects compared to 18% who see better opportunities abroad. Younger employees are particularly optimistic—56% of Gen Z respondents view local prospects favourably, while nearly one in four millennials (24%) believe career advancement may be stronger overseas.

Despite optimism about local opportunities, only 40% of Singaporeans say they feel secure in their current jobs, underscoring ongoing anxieties around employment stability. Younger generations, however, expressed greater confidence—half of Gen Z (50%) and 47% of millennials report feeling secure in their roles.

In contrast, 24% of respondents feel insecure, with Gen X employees reporting the highest insecurity at 30%.

Among those who feel secure, sector stability (40%) and strong organisational performance (31%) are the main reasons for confidence. Other contributing factors include the irreplaceability of their role (26%) and confidence in their skills or employability (25%).

For those feeling insecure, economic uncertainty (47%) is the top concern, followed by job competition (37%), layoffs or reduced hiring (36%), and industry slowdown (33%).

In response to these uncertainties, many employees are taking proactive steps to protect their careers. Nearly three in 10 (29%) are upskilling within their current industry, while an equal proportion are exploring opportunities outside their organisation. Millennials are the most active, with 36% seeking new roles.

READ MORE: Half of Singapore’s new hires are overseas as organisations accelerate global expansion

However, 28% of all respondents remain passive, either not taking any action or still considering their next steps. This hesitation is especially pronounced among Gen X (34%) and Baby Boomers (47%).

Singaporeans’ broader economic outlook has remained largely unchanged since YouGov’s previous wave in July 2025. A quarter (25%) expects a recession in the next six months, while 19% anticipate growth and 31% foresee stability. Younger generations remain the most upbeat, with 28% of Gen Z and 27% of millennials expecting positive growth, compared to 29% of Gen X who predict a downturn.

When it comes to living costs, nearly half (46%) believe the cost of living will definitely rise, while another 42% say an increase is likely, reflecting persistent concerns about inflation despite economic stabilisation.