8 Boomer Complaints Younger Generations Simply Don’t Understand
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The divide between Baby Boomers and younger generations has long been a subject of cultural and societal discussions. With technological innovations, shifting values, and economic changes shaping how each generation perceives the world around them, Baby Boomers often express frustrations that younger generations find difficult to understand.
These complaints, rooted in distinct historical and cultural contexts, provide a lens through which we can better understand the generational divide. Here are common complaints Baby Boomers have, and why younger generations don’t always see eye to eye.
Homeownership Is No Longer Easy
Many Baby Boomers were able to purchase their first homes at an early age, often with fewer financial obstacles. They saw homeownership as a key marker of success and stability. But for Millennials and Gen Z, owning a home has become increasingly difficult.
Skyrocketing property prices, stagnant wages, and the burden of student loans make homeownership seem like an unattainable dream. The median age for first-time homebuyers has increased to 38 years old, a far cry from the early 20s that many Boomers experienced.
Nobody Uses Cash Anymore
For Baby Boomers, cash was not just a mode of payment; it was a tangible representation of financial control. The act of handing over physical currency made spending money feel real and purposeful. However, the younger generations have largely embraced digital payment options such as Venmo, PayPal, and contactless credit cards. For them, cash is more of a relic than a necessity. With the rise of digital wallets and cashless systems, handling finances has become quicker and more convenient.
People Are Too Distracted by Their Phones
Baby Boomers often lament how glued people are to their phones. The pervasive use of smartphones can seem like a barrier to authentic human connections. For Boomers, the phone was once an essential household item used for important conversations, and personal interaction was valued.
In contrast, younger generations view smartphones as essential tools for communication. In fact, 6 hours and 40 minutes of daily screen time is the global average as of 2025, which underscores the prominent role smartphones play in modern life.
What Do You Even Do on TikTok?
To Baby Boomers, TikTok is a confusing platform filled with random dances and viral trends. They struggle to understand its appeal. However, for Millennials and Gen Z, TikTok is far more than just entertainment. It’s a space for creativity, information sharing, and even business opportunities. Whether it’s showcasing talents, sharing knowledge, or growing a personal brand, TikTok offers an unprecedented platform for expression and career-building.
Young People Don’t Stay in One Job
The notion of loyalty to one employer for an entire career is ingrained in the Boomer mindset. They saw job stability and long-term commitment as signs of responsibility and success. However, younger generations have embraced the gig economy, moving from job to job in search of higher wages, better work-life balance, and more fulfilling roles.
The idea of job-hopping has become normalized, with many Millennials and Gen Zers seeing it as a way to gain diverse experiences and increase their earning potential.
What Happened to Real Music?
Boomers often fondly remember the music of their youth. Bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Fleetwood Mac, and argue that today’s music lacks the same artistry. For them, these classic sounds represent a golden age of music. However, younger generations view their own music as equally innovative and worthy of admiration. They appreciate how their music speaks to their time, mirroring their values, struggles, and experiences.
Can’t You Fix That Yourself?
DIY culture was strongly ingrained in Baby Boomers. They often took pride in being able to fix appliances, vehicles, or home issues on their own. For younger generations, however, the increasing complexity of modern technology and specialized trades has made it more practical to hire experts. Given the value of time, younger people prefer to focus on their professional lives and delegate repairs to skilled technicians.
Why Do You Need a Side Hustle?
Many Baby Boomers worked a single job for decades, often earning a steady paycheck and benefits. They question why younger generations feel the need for side hustles. Millennials and Gen Z, on the other hand, face the economic pressures of rising living costs, inflation, and stagnant wages. Side hustles are not only a financial necessity but also a creative outlet, allowing them to pursue their passions or earn extra income to meet their needs.
Key Takeaways
The generational divide between Baby Boomers and younger generations is evident in the way they experience and interact with the world. Boomers may view the world through a lens shaped by traditional values, hard work, and a different cultural context, whereas younger generations have adapted to a rapidly changing world driven by technology, new economic realities, and evolving social norms. These complaints, though often lighthearted, reveal deeper insights into the challenges, frustrations, and shifting priorities that define each generation.
