A new survey has shown that immigration is not one of the top issues people worry about in their local areas. Many believe the topic has been blown out of proportion compared to more pressing problems.
The poll was done by YouGov for a group called Best for Britain. It found that only about 26 percent of people listed immigration or asylum as one of the top three problems in their communities. That ranked seventh overall, far behind things like the cost of living, healthcare, and the economy.
Crime, housing, and jobs were also seen as bigger local problems. But when asked about the UK as a whole, more than half of the people said immigration was one of the country’s biggest challenges.
Best for Britain said the numbers suggest many people’s opinions are not based on their own experience. They said worries about immigration are often pushed by national politicians and the media rather than coming from what people actually see day to day.
📊 Immigration is so often in the media. But did you know that our latest research found that only 26% of people view the issue as one of the top three issues facing their local communities?
Read our brand new report below! ⬇️ https://t.co/aZRY89JVL8 pic.twitter.com/OZeF5SZQ8X
— Best for Britain (@BestForBritain) October 31, 2025
In an interview, Saeema Syeda from the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants said talk of an immigration crisis is a “manufactured panic pushed by some politicians and parts of the media to distract from what actually matters to people.”
She added: “Across our communities, we share the same priorities – making ends meet, accessing healthcare, decent schools and secure homes. We need to end scapegoating and look for solutions.”
The poll surveyed 4,368 adults between September 5 and 10. It gave a clear picture that while immigration dominates national headlines, it is not what most people are most concerned about where they live.
