Gen Z is done with the out-of-touch displays of wealth.
Gen Z is redefining what it means to be rich, rejecting many of the traditional “rich-people flexes” that have long been seen as status symbols. In a world of climate change, social inequality, and economic uncertainty, they view overt displays of opulence as out of touch and inauthentic. This isn’t about being anti-wealth; it’s a fundamental shift in values, where authenticity, purpose, and impact matter more than pure extravagance.
This generation, fluent in the language of social media and online community, is pushing back against the idea that luxury and excess are the ultimate markers of success. They are more concerned with a person’s ethics, a habit’s impact on the planet, and a brand’s authenticity. What was once a symbol of success is now seen by many as a sign of disconnection, a relic of a bygone era.
1. Owning a private jet for personal travel is not a flex.
The private jet, a classic symbol of ultra-wealth and convenience, is a “rich-people flex” that Gen Z views with disdain. In an era of heightened environmental awareness and climate anxiety, the carbon footprint of private jet travel is seen as a grotesque display of excess and a major contradiction to any claims of social responsibility. The convenience it offers is not worth the environmental cost, and the entire concept is viewed as selfish and out of touch.
This rejection is a reflection of a generation that is deeply concerned with the future of the planet. While older generations may have seen a private jet as a sign of having “made it,” Gen Z sees it as an irresponsible and unsustainable habit. The idea of flying private is not a dream; it’s a wasteful act that contributes to a global problem. It’s a luxury that fundamentally clashes with their core values.
2. Yacht ownership is seen as a pointless display of luxury.
Like private jets, the yacht is another luxury item that Gen Z sees as a symbol of outdated and irresponsible wealth. The environmental impact of these massive vessels, from the fuel they burn to their effect on marine ecosystems, makes them a major source of criticism. The idea of a yacht as a status symbol is being replaced by the understanding of it as a wasteful and unnecessary indulgence, a relic of a different time.
The appeal of the yacht has been replaced by a desire for more sustainable and meaningful experiences. Gen Z is more likely to prioritize eco-friendly travel, community-based activities, or philanthropic efforts over the purchase of a vessel that represents nothing more than opulence. The yacht is not just a rich person’s toy; it’s a symbol of a mindset that is out of step with the values of a new generation that is focused on impact, not just indulgence.
3. Displaying luxury logos is considered tacky and inauthentic.
The conspicuous display of luxury logos, a “rich-people flex” once used to signal status and wealth, is now largely viewed as tacky and inauthentic by Gen Z. This generation, having grown up in a world of constant brand messaging, has developed a sophisticated “authenticity radar” and sees flashy logos as a sign of a person trying too hard. They are more interested in personal style and unique expression than in conforming to a brand’s aesthetic.
Gen Z values authenticity and originality, preferring to discover niche, sustainable, or vintage brands that align with their personal values. The idea of being a walking billboard for a luxury brand is not appealing. This shift reflects a move away from external validation and towards a more personal and internally-driven sense of style. The loud, bold logos of the past are being replaced by a quieter, more intentional aesthetic that is all about self-expression.
4. Gated communities and exclusive clubs are no longer a flex.
The idea of living in a gated community or being a member of a private, exclusive club is a “rich-people flex” that many in Gen Z see as a symptom of a divided and disconnected society. These physical and social barriers, once seen as a sign of success, are now viewed as a rejection of community and a symbol of social inequality. This generation, which values inclusivity and collaboration, is pushing back against habits that create separation.
Gen Z prefers to live in diverse, walkable neighborhoods and to be a part of communities that are open and accessible to everyone. The desire for a strong, local community is more important than the perceived safety or status of an exclusive club. What was once a sign of arrival is now seen as a sign of social isolation. This trend is a clear indication that Gen Z is prioritizing connection and community over exclusivity.
5. Hustle culture is being rejected as a sign of success.
For a long time, hustle culture—the glorification of working long hours and sacrificing personal time for career success—was seen as a “rich-people flex” and a badge of honor among the ambitious. Gen Z, however, is rejecting this mindset in favor of a healthier work-life balance. They have witnessed the burnout and mental health struggles of previous generations and are actively pushing back against the idea that a person’s worth is defined by their productivity.
This shift is a clear sign that Gen Z is prioritizing mental health and well-being over the pursuit of endless wealth. They are more likely to seek out jobs that offer flexibility, a healthy work environment, and time for personal passions. This rejection of the grind is not about being lazy; it’s a conscious decision to define success on their own terms, where a full life is valued more than a full bank account.
6. Overtly extravagant parties are seen as a waste of money.
The tradition of hosting large, extravagant parties and social events to show off wealth is a “rich-people flex” that Gen Z is completely over. In an age of global problems and social awareness, a party that costs as much as a year’s salary for the average person is seen as a tasteless display of excess. This generation is more interested in intimate gatherings and events that have a purpose beyond pure entertainment, such as fundraisers or community-building activities.
This rejection of extravagance is a reflection of Gen Z’s desire for authenticity and meaningful connection. They would rather spend money on experiences that create lasting memories or support a cause they care about than on a party that is all about appearances. What was once a symbol of social status is now viewed as an unnecessary and irresponsible waste of resources, a habit that is simply not cool anymore.
7. Having a massive, empty mansion is not the housing goal.
The idea of owning a sprawling, empty mansion with countless rooms is a “rich-people flex” that Gen Z is largely rejecting. In a world of rising housing costs and environmental concerns, the massive energy consumption and pointless space of a mansion are seen as inefficient and wasteful. They are more interested in homes that are intentionally designed, sustainable, and reflect their personal values, regardless of size.
This shift in housing preferences is a clear sign of a generation that values quality over quantity. They are more likely to prioritize a home that is well-located, energy-efficient, and filled with a sense of purpose. A large, empty house is not a symbol of success; it’s a sign of a disconnect from the values of community and environmental responsibility. Gen Z is redefining the dream home to be a place that is meaningful and authentic, not just big.
8. Having a large, fast, and expensive sports car is not a flex.
While a classic “rich-people flex” has always been a large, fast, and expensive sports car, Gen Z is rejecting this in favor of cars that are more practical, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. In a world of climate change, the gas-guzzling nature of a sports car is seen as irresponsible and out of touch. They are more interested in cars that are electric, efficient, and reflect a commitment to a better future.
This rejection is a reflection of a generation that is deeply concerned with the future of the planet. While older generations may have seen a sports car as a sign of having “made it,” Gen Z sees it as an irresponsible and unsustainable habit. The idea of a fast car is not a dream; it’s a wasteful act that contributes to a global problem. It’s a luxury that fundamentally clashes with their core values.