Spending habits have changed, and some of Gen Z’s purchases leave older generations baffled.
Every generation has its quirks, but Gen Z’s spending choices often make Boomers shake their heads in disbelief. Raised in the digital age, Gen Z prioritizes convenience, experiences, and aesthetics in ways that seem downright ridiculous to those who grew up clipping coupons and balancing checkbooks. Instead of traditional investments like homeownership or retirement savings, younger adults are dropping serious cash on things that previous generations wouldn’t have dreamed of spending money on.
While some of these purchases make perfect sense in today’s world, others feel like money pits that provide little long-term value. Whether it’s for social media clout, instant gratification, or a deep-rooted desire for self-care, Gen Z’s spending habits reflect a completely different set of priorities. Here are some of the most eye-roll-worthy things they’re shelling out cash for—at least from a Boomer’s perspective.
1. Daily gourmet coffee runs are a non-negotiable expense.
Boomers brewed a pot of coffee at home and called it a day, but Gen Z treats coffee like a daily ritual that requires $7 lattes with oat milk and intricate foam art, as reported by Coffeebi. A simple drip coffee won’t cut it—many young adults see specialty drinks as an experience rather than just caffeine.
Over time, those daily purchases add up to hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars per year. While older generations shake their heads at the idea of spending a car payment’s worth of money on coffee, Gen Z values the convenience, the aesthetic, and the joy of sipping a handcrafted drink.
2. Subscription services are eating up their paychecks.
Gen Z has a subscription for everything—streaming, beauty boxes, meal kits, gaming services, and even personalized vitamins, according to Recurly. Unlike Boomers, who balk at unnecessary monthly expenses, younger generations love the idea of auto-renewing conveniences that bring curated content or products straight to their doors.
While it’s easy to justify each subscription individually, the costs add up fast. Many Gen Zers don’t even realize how much they’re spending each month until they check their statements and see a long list of forgotten memberships draining their accounts.
3. Fast fashion hauls are filling closets with disposable clothes.
Boomers grew up with a “buy it once, wear it for years” mentality, but Gen Z thrives on constantly refreshing their wardrobes with cheap, trendy pieces from online retailers, as stated by Refinery29. Fast fashion brands pump out new styles weekly, making it easy to keep up with micro-trends—but at the cost of quality and sustainability.
Older generations cringe at the idea of spending money on clothes that barely last a season. While Gen Z loves the affordability and variety, the constant need to refresh their wardrobe often leads to wasteful spending and overflowing closets.
4. Aesthetic home décor is more important than practicality.
Boomers focused on functionality, but Gen Z treats home décor like an extension of their personal brand. Expensive candles, designer throw pillows, LED lights, and color-coordinated bookshelves aren’t just about comfort—they’re about curating an Instagram-worthy space.
The obsession with trendy home décor means frequent updates and impulse buys that can drain a budget quickly. While previous generations saw home goods as investments meant to last, Gen Z often prioritizes style over durability, making it an ever-revolving expense.
5. Spending big on digital goods feels completely normal.
Older generations grew up buying physical items, but Gen Z has no problem dropping money on things that don’t exist in the real world. In-game purchases, NFTs, virtual clothing for avatars, and exclusive digital content are all fair game for their wallets.
Boomers find it baffling that anyone would spend real cash on a virtual hat for a gaming character, but for Gen Z, digital identity is just as important as physical possessions. As the digital world continues to expand, so does the willingness to invest in things that older generations see as completely intangible.
6. Expensive skincare routines have become a necessity.
A bar of soap and some moisturizer used to be enough, but Gen Z treats skincare like a science, often spending hundreds on serums, masks, and high-end products. Social media influencers push the idea that a 10-step routine is essential, making younger consumers eager to splurge on luxury brands.
Boomers might see it as unnecessary spending, but for Gen Z, skincare isn’t just about looking good—it’s about self-care, confidence, and preventative aging. The industry has capitalized on this mindset, creating an endless cycle of must-have products that keep wallets open.
7. Experiences take priority over long-term financial goals.
While Boomers saved for homes and retirement, Gen Z prefers spending their money on concerts, festivals, and travel. Experiences hold more value to them than material possessions, which is why they’ll drop hundreds on VIP tickets or weekend getaways without hesitation.
While this mindset creates incredible memories, it also means many younger adults are struggling to build savings. Boomers can’t understand why Gen Z isn’t more focused on financial security, but for younger generations, the fear of missing out (FOMO) often outweighs traditional financial planning.
8. Designer water bottles and drinkware are must-have accessories.
Boomers drank water from the tap without a second thought, but Gen Z has made reusable water bottles a status symbol. Hydro Flasks, Stanley tumblers, and trendy glass bottles are everywhere, with some people owning multiple just to match different outfits or moods.
Spending $50 on a water bottle seems absurd to older generations, but for Gen Z, it’s about aesthetics, sustainability, and hydration all in one. The trend-driven nature of these purchases means they’re constantly upgrading to the latest style, making it an ongoing expense.
9. High-priced wellness trends are becoming a lifestyle.
Boomers grew up exercising for free with a jog around the block or a home workout, but Gen Z loves paying for premium wellness experiences. Boutique fitness classes, trendy supplements, meditation apps, and infrared sauna sessions have become regular expenses in their budgets.
The pursuit of self-improvement has turned wellness into a multi-billion-dollar industry, and Gen Z is fully invested. While Boomers see it as unnecessary spending, younger generations view it as an essential part of maintaining mental and physical health—no matter the cost.