Cost of Living Pressures Push German and US Youth to Delay Life Milestones

A Deloitte survey of 800 German respondents aged 18‑44 shows that 45% of Generation Z and 39% of Millennials have postponed family formation or next career steps because of financial constraints. Housing affordability influences 62% of Gen Z and 64% of Millennials when choosing jobs or locations, while only 10% of Gen Z and 7% of Millennials prioritize reaching leadership positions.

In the United States, a Fortune analysis finds that nearly half of all workers lack a dedicated retirement plan, and more than half of 18‑34‑year‑olds have none. Many employees have withdrawn from 401(k) accounts to cover everyday expenses, and the Social Security fund is projected to be exhausted by 2033. These trends indicate growing financial insecurity among younger adults in both Germany and the United States.