Consumer optimism eased in May, especially in Central Canada, according to the Conference Board’s monthly Index of Consumer Confidence.

With consumers expressing less optimism about their future financial and job prospects in May, the Index fell nearly four points to 120.5, its biggest monthly decline since the start of the year. Despite the setback, the Index still remained roughly equal to the monthly average over the past two years.

“Canada’s job creation has surpassed all expectations so far this year,” said Pedro Antunes, director of national and provincial forecasting. “Still, the high dollar has taken a toll on manufacturing and exports, especially in Ontario and Quebec. In Central Canada, households expressed concern that their job prospects will worsen in the next six months.”

Although Ontario and Quebec saw the greatest declines, confidence fell off slightly in each of the other regions of the country. The survey was conducted between May 4 and May 10.