Gen X Confidence Sinks to 78 as Boomers Fall to 83 Under Retirement Strain

3 articles · Updated · Fortune · Aug 6

Gen X posted the weakest consumer confidence of any U.S. generation at a six-month average of 78, while Boomers fell to 83—their lowest since October 2021; both have slid steadily since early 2025.
A $1.45 million retirement gap helps explain the drop: Gen X says it needs $1.56 million to retire comfortably but has saved just $108,600 on average, while 44% doubt they can save enough.
Boomers' anxiety is also tied to uneven wealth and rising costs—though they hold about $85 trillion, the top 10% control 71% of Boomer wealth, and home-care inflation rose 7.9% over five years.
Gen Z and millennials have held confidence near 110, supported by earlier investing, record $3.1 trillion in holdings and stronger self-reliance even as homeownership remains out of reach for many.
The split suggests older Americans are more exposed to market swings, healthcare bills and retirement timing, while younger adults may be less shaken because they already expect a tougher economic future.