An exclusive NY1 poll shows that 52 percent of New Yorkers say that it’s at least somewhat likely that they or a family member will lose their job, home or medical insurance this year. NY1's Josh Robin filed the following report.

The newly released survey shows a creeping pessimism -- the crush of the falling economy will only grow worse.

"I don't see a bottom to it yet. I can't even imagine it yet," said one New Yorker.

"It's just horrible what's going on right now," said another New Yorker.

One indication, 52 percent of city residents think it's somewhat or very likely they or a family member will lose their job, home or health insurance. Twenty-one percent said it's not too likely, and 23 percent not likely at all.

"I haven't had that experience yet. But you worry about it though, because you see how many people are being laid off. Thousands of people," said one New Yorker.

"My wife was laid off last year. She found another job. We're waiting to see what happens with that. It's shaky," said another New Yorker.

The bleak prognosis extends to a fear that quality of life in the city will deteriorate.

Forty-one percent think it will get worse in the city, with 31 percent thinking it will stay the same and 23 percent thinking it will improve. Five aren't sure or refused to answer.

When asked for their greatest concern, it's about even for crime, worse mass transit, education cuts, homelessness and higher taxes.

"I'm already on the streets. I'm just trying to get back to Miami. Ain't nobody seem to be able to help me, because they have no funding," said one displaced New Yorker.

"If you have less revenue coming into the city, I think that would have a profound effect on all that -- crime, housing, homelessness. It's just a domino effect," said another New Yorker.

Apart from the everyday struggle, pollsters spot in the numbers a possible vulnerability for a seemingly invincible mayor running for a third term.

"On the other hand, whether or not people will blame that on the mayor or whether they'll believe that the mayor is still the person most likely to keep the city in the best situation possible is to be seen," said NY1 Pollster Mickey Blum.

Women were more pessimistic than men; Latinos more than African-Americans or whites.

As officials ponder budget cuts and tax hikes, what do regular New Yorkers prefer?

More want tax hikes -- at 44 percent, versus 30 percent for service cuts, eleven percent for a little of each. Fifteen percent aren't sure or don't know.