Over 70% of Gen Z and Millennials Say Wealth Is Out of Reach

New survey reveals growing financial challenges and need to redefine the 'American Dream'

Mar. 30, 2026 at 1:29pm

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A minimalist composition of overlapping triangles and circles in shades of blue, red, and yellow, conceptually representing the economic challenges faced by Gen Z and Millennials.A geometric visual metaphor for the financial obstacles confronting younger generations, who increasingly feel the traditional path to prosperity is out of reach.Chicago Today

A new survey of 2,000 Gen Z and Millennial adults, released by Beyond Finance in partnership with Operation HOPE, reveals that 71% of young Americans feel wealth-building opportunities are becoming less achievable, with 68% believing their generation has been financially set back. The findings point to a broader challenge of whether the traditional path to financial success still works to achieve the 'American Dream', and the potential need to write a new one.

Why it matters

The survey highlights the widening gap between traditional financial guidance and the economic realities younger generations face, with many feeling the financial system is working against them. This signals a broader change in financial identity, with success now defined by navigating an evolving and uncertain system rather than achieving traditional milestones like homeownership.

The details

The survey found that 57% of Gen Z and Millennials feel their generation was set up for financial failure, with 75% saying financial knowledge alone won't make homeownership attainable. Nearly 80% report using 'survival spending' tactics, and 32% have used Buy Now, Pay Later for essentials. Only 28% feel fully prepared by their education to make financial decisions, and 43% say older generations don't understand their financial challenges.

  • The survey was conducted from March 16-18, 2026.

The players

Beyond Finance

A debt consolidation company that provides personalized solutions to help consumers lower their eligible monthly payments, reduce the impact of interest, and reach a debt-free life sooner.

Operation HOPE

A non-profit organization that has been moving America from civil rights to 'silver rights' with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for the underserved, serving more than 4 million individuals and directing more than $4.2 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communities.

John Hope Bryant

The founder, chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE.

Dr. Erika Rasure

The chief financial wellness advisor at Beyond Finance.

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What they’re saying

“We're asking these younger generations to follow financial rules that no longer fully reflect today's reality. Budgeting alone won't close the gap. This is a moment to reimagine financial education, to equip people not just to survive, but to thrive, build wealth, and claim their rightful place in today's economy.”

— John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE

“Many people have lost trust in a system that was supposed to work for them, and with it, they've lost trust in themselves and their sense of what's possible. The reality is, financial conditions have changed faster than the rules. Redefining hope isn't about asking people to try harder. It's about helping them create values and financial habits that reflect their reality, and rebuilding confidence through consistent, sustainable progress.”

— Dr. Erika Rasure, Chief Financial Wellness Advisor at Beyond Finance

What’s next

Beyond Finance and Operation HOPE are offering resources to help young Americans redefine their financial goals and build confidence, including a 'How Lit are You?' quiz and a free tips guide.

The takeaway

This survey highlights the need for a new financial rulebook that better reflects the economic realities faced by Gen Z and Millennials, who increasingly feel the traditional path to the 'American Dream' is out of reach. By redefining success and providing more relevant financial education, these organizations aim to help young people navigate an evolving system and build sustainable financial stability.