While most researchers agree that Gen Z refers to Americans born between 1997 and 2012, some people have different opinions. For instance, the moderators in charge of the r/GenZ subreddit suggest that Gen Zers are those people born in the United States as early as 1996.
There’s also some overlap between people born on the cusp between Generation Y (aka Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996) and Generation Z. They’re referred to as Zillennials, and mostly include folks born between 1993 and 1998.
The BBC reports that some members of Gen Z are moving back in with their parents, after having previously moved out, in order to save money. They’re called ‘boomerang kids.’
Many of them can’t afford to rent an apartment or a room in a shared house, whether due to the rising cost of living, high debts, or no ability to save money.
Meanwhile, many Gen Zers seem to have a love-hate relationship with technology. According to The Guardian, based on data from a pool by the New Britain Project think tank, two-thirds of 16-to-24-year-olds believe that social media “does more harm than good” and three-quarters want tough regulation to protect younger people.
Around half of respondents think they spent too much time on social media when they were younger. Moreover, four out of five Gen Zers admit they’d like to keep their kids away from social media as long as possible if they decide to become parents someday.
According to Investopedia, Generation Z is the “first truly digital native generation.” It is shaped by technology, social media, and planet-wide events like the Great Recession and the Covid-19 pandemic.
This year, in 2025, Gen Z will represent nearly 30% of the global workforce. This generation is already driving change in consumer behavior, workplace shifts, and investment trends.
The oldest members of Gen Z are already starting their careers, finishing their higher education, and starting families while the youngest are still in school. Broadly speaking, Gen Z tends to be pragmatic about finances and has a cautious approach to money management.
Members of this generation have grown up in a world where things like the internet, social media, and smartphones have always been present.
Investopedia explains that some of the key characteristics and core traits of Generation Z include things like:
- Digital fluency when it comes to work, shopping, and socializing;
- Diversity, inclusivity, and social consciousness;
- Pragmatism, financial consciousness, and financial conservatism;
- Entrepreneurial tendencies and self-reliance;
- Collaboration, teamwork, and a preference for nonhierarchical leadership;
- Authenticity, individuality, and self-expression;
- Adaptability to change;
- Mental health awareness.
