Services across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and Dorset are set to remain under pressure after both councils said the Autumn Budget failed to address major financial challenges.
BCP Council and Dorset Council have each raised concern about the impact on local communities.
BCP Council said the rising cost of Special Educational Needs and Disability provision continues to place heavy strain on its finances.
Councillor Mike Cox said he was disappointed the issue was not mentioned, adding that the delay to national reform leaves councils funding a service that is not sustainable.
He said the pressure affects the support offered to residents and the ability to plan for the long term.
Dorset Council said the Budget brings further difficulties for rural areas. Councillor Simon Clifford said the removal of the two child benefit cap would help some families, but he warned that rural communities were being left behind.
He said the lack of devolved powers means Dorset cannot introduce a tourism levy or take part in business rate retention trials, losing income that could support services. He said residents already pay more and get less, and the county is now facing difficult choices to balance its budget.
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