The Generations

In this national survey, we talked to thousands of Americans about their hopes and dreams for their later years. We asked how the generations see themselves – and society – responding to the financial and social challenges of retirement.

 

Here's what we heard:

Gen Y: Age 13-31

Gen X: Age 32-43

Baby Boomers: Age 44-62

Silent Generation: Age 63-83

53% view Gen Y as the most self-indulgent generation.

41% view Gen X as the most innovative generation.

45% view Baby Boomers as the most productive.

33% view the Silent Generation as most admired.

Internet Generation is the name Gen Y would choose for themselves.

Generation Tech is the name Gen X would choose for themselves.

Baby Boomers are the only generation who like their name.

Responsible Generation is the name the Silent Generation would choose for themselves.

 

Generations At A Glance
Gen Y Gen X Baby Boomers Silent Generation
Age range 13-31 32-43 44-62 63-83
Number in U.S. population 78.6 million 50.7 million 76.6 million 38.3 million
% Married 36% 58% 68% 61%
% With children in household 45% 63% 30% 7%
% With at least 1 living parent 99% 90% 62% 20%
% With grandkids 0% 10% 51% 84%

Ethnicity
     African-American 14% 12% 11% 9%
     Asian 5% 6% 4% 3%
     Hispanic/Latino 19% 17% 10% 7%
     White 60% 64% 73% 80%
     Other 3% 2% 2% 1%
Political party
     Democrat 38% 39% 35% 43%
     Republican 24% 31% 33% 32%
     Independent 26% 23% 25% 22%
     Other 12% 8% 6% 3%
Education
     High school only 38% 31% 29% 33%
     Some college or more 62% 69% 71% 67%

 

 

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