Gen Z Boosts Retirement Investing 65% as First-Time Homebuyer Age Hits 40
Updated
Updated · Ynetnews · Sep 4
Gen Z Boosts Retirement Investing 65% as First-Time Homebuyer Age Hits 40
3 articles · Updated · Ynetnews · Sep 4
Summary
Gen Z is shifting wealth-building away from home purchases and toward stocks, savings and retirement accounts as high housing costs and mortgage rates shut many out of the market.
Fidelity said Gen Z retirement contributions rose 65% year over year, while Pew found younger adults are less likely than older Americans to view homebuying as a very good investment.
The housing squeeze is stark: the median age of first-time U.S. homebuyers has climbed to 40 from 30 in 2008, and first-time buyers made up just 21% of the market last year.
In North Carolina, one couple earning $120,000 said they stopped house-hunting and put money into savings instead, delaying both a purchase and plans to start a family.
That retreat from homeownership fits a broader Gen Z preference for flexibility, with 81% seeking financial advice and many relying on apps and online tools to invest while renting or living with parents.