Key takeaways
- 57% of Gen Zers believe money is key to happiness.
- 40% of Gen Z don’t consider their partner’s earnings important. 21% won’t date someone who earns significantly less.
- 19% of Gen Z women prefer a wealthier partner compared to 8% of men.
- 14% of Gen Z are open to joining OnlyFans to increase their earnings, while 26% have considered online gambling.
Gen Z is prioritizing flexibility over traditional wealth-building and reshaping financial success to align with their values — but how does money truly impact their relationships?
EduBirdie surveyed 2,000 Gen Z on their financial habits and attitudes toward money. The results show that money isn't everything, particularly when it comes to love.
Love vs. Money: Gen Z’s take on what matters
Past generations may have claimed that money can't buy happiness, but Gen Z doesn't buy it.
Bogged down by rising living costs, student loan debt, and job uncertainty, greater financial stability would make a difference. No wonder 57% firmly insist money is vital to their happiness.
Dating experts often stress that shared spending habits and savings goals are vital to a long and stable relationship—but Gen Z disagrees. Whether their partner earns more, less, or the same as them, 40% say money imbalance in relationships is no barrier when it comes to love.
When it comes to love, Gen Z is choosing connection over cash. Some 54% say they are willing to date someone who earns significantly less, while another 25% are open to it—so long as their partner plans to improve their financial situation.
Until death debt do us part—that’s Gen Z’s vow when it comes to money in relationships, with 65% willing to support their significant other indefinitely should they face financial hardship.
Money & Family: Gen Z’s roadmap to financial independence
While much of Gen Z has left the nest, not all are flying solo. Whether pursuing education or trying to get their feet on the career ladder, 41% still rely on financial support from their parents.
While 19% are comfortable with the arrangement, 22% admit guilt for depending on the Bank of Mom and Dad.
Gen Z may be the chill generation, but not all are so laid-back when it comes to lending. While 82% are willing to help out family and friends in need, 12% demand a formal agreement before parting with their cash.
Gen Z’s get rich blueprint: The planned road to financial success
What's Gen Z counting on to secure its financial future? Some 61% believe their career earnings will see them through, while 26% are betting on smart investments to grow over time.
However, 10% have no plans to boost their wealth. While Gen Z is still young and there's plenty of time to make money, old age catches us all—and it can be very expensive, so it's best to plan ahead.
Hard work and consistent investment are what the experts recommend, but some Gen Zers have more creative plans to earn their fortune.
Using the internet to their advantage, 32% are considering starting an OnlyFans or selling foot pictures to make money.
Likewise, 26% are tempted by online gambling, essentially rolling the dice on their finances despite the odds stacked against them.
Gen Zers are more tuned into their financial health than previous generations—likely due to the endless reel of advice the internet offers.
While 68% of young people still turn to family and friends for money advice, 41% also call upon social media’s wealth of influencers to learn how to be better with money, while 13% seek answers from ChatGPT.
