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Adulting Is Hard: 2023 Gen Z & Millennials Survey Shows the Struggle Is Real

This new survey reveals how Gen Zers and Millennials are navigating adulthood. Turns out, the majority do not feel like they have “adulting” figured out.

by Staff
February 1, 2023
Adulting Is Hard: 2023 Gen Z & Millennials Survey Shows the Struggle Is Real

Adulting Is Hard, Sometimes

Image by Robin Higgins/ Pixabay

2 min to read


It’s no secret growing up is hard, but a new report finds both Millennials and Gen Z are struggling with "adulting."

More than half of Gen Z is now 18 years or older and trying to figure out developing adulthood and becoming an adult alongside Millennials. The oldest Gen Z is now 26 years old, and the oldest Millennial is 42.

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But in a new survey of 1,000 Gen Zers and Millennials, both generations say they don’t know how to complete common “adulting” tasks on their own. On top of that, Gen Zers say they can’t  turn to Millennials for help because half of Millennials don’t feel like they have a handle on growing up yet. 

The report found 63% of Americans under 42 years-old feel burned out by adulthood. In fact, 63% of Millennials and Gen Z don't know how to do an oil change, 48% couldn't change a tire, and 46% don't know how to tie a tie.

Millennials and Gen Z are also having a hard time with finances. They report struggling with managing money, saving for retirement, and saving for a home. 

  • 1 in 3 are not financially independent.

  • 27% live with their parents.

  • Nearly 1 in 5 Gen Zers don’t know how to write a check.

When it comes to work, 61% don’t feel successful in their professional life and 22% have quit a job without having another lined up in the last year. 

Take a look at the full report for more insights including how long Millennials and Gen Z think it will take for them to have adulthood figured out.

Originally posted on Modern Salon

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