Generation Z, also known as “zoomers”, is the demographic cohort succeeding Millennials and preceding Generation Alpha. Most people consider the mid to late 1990’s to the early 2010’s as their birth years. This generation also tends to be the children of Generation X. Interestingly, we are seeing some interesting shifts with Generation Z when it comes to living at home with their parents. In fact, according to a recent study by Credit Karma, nearly a third of Americans between the ages of 18 to 25 are now living at home with their parents or relatives. As a result, this will certainly impact the overall housing market and is a phenomenon that should be closely watched.
Factors impacting the living with parents trend
- Housing affordability: On the surface, the most obvious reason for this trend with Gen Z’ers living at home with relatives is housing affordability challenges. Out of control inflation combined with an ongoing recession are likely going to continue impacting this trend.
- Multi-generational households: Over time, we have seen an uptick in the amount of multi-generational households. As of 2021, a quarter of adults ages 25 to 34 live in multi-generational households. This figure is up by 9% as compared to what we saw in 1971. In addition to more families wanting to stay close, these living arrangements are also an effort to avoid poverty and other economic challenges.
- Student loan debt: Student loan debt has certainly garnered much attention recently. This is certainly a major factor for Gen Z’ers and their ability to afford a home. In fact, student loan debt has risen by 144% from 2007 to 2020. In addition to creating an obstacle for home ownership, student debt is also impacting Gen Z’ers ability to afford rentals as well.
- Pandemic push: The recent pandemic has certainly impacted all aspects of the economy. Since the beginning of the pandemic, 2.7 million Americans moved back in with a relative. While there are many factors related to this pandemic trend, various shutdowns and economic closures certainly impacted this.
Summary
Given the high costs of renting in the current market, this is putting a strain on many young Americans’ ability to save for a home purchase. According to this analysis, 28% of Gen Z’ers are unable to save money in this economy. Furthermore, 32% of these “zoomers” spends half of their monthly income on housing. The survey cited in this article was from June 10 to June 15, 2022 among 1,022 U.S. adults between the ages of 18 and 25.
As always, it is important to be cognizant of the various factors impacting the housing market. Although Generation Z does not represent the largest demographic of likely home buyers at the current time, their behaviors will certainly help shape the future of the housing market. In any market, it is important to have a team of real estate professionals to guide you in what will likely be the largest investment of your life. In the South Florida market, the Live South Florida Realty, Inc. team has set itself apart from other real estate brokerages due to our knowledge, professionalism, and responsiveness. Are you looking to buy or sell? Contact Natasha at Live South Florida Realty, Inc. today! Don’t forget to download the free Florida Home Search app for your mobile device as well.
