Summarised by Centrist
Writing for RNZ, journalist Kate Newton muses on the winding journey of Generation X. Spoiler alert: they’ve gone straight.
The once cynical, disaffected cool kids are now more likely to be your boss.
Using census and other data, RNZ has looked into the lives of Gen X to see how they’ve fared over the years. Compared to Baby Boomers and Millennials, Gen X has received little attention. This “forgotten generation” is seen as a transitional cohort, smaller in number and less distinct. They make up about a quarter of New Zealand’s population, with 69% identifying as Pākehā, 14% as Māori, 7% as Pasifika, and 16% as Asian.
Gen X has embraced urban living, with two-thirds residing in cities. They have also settled into family life, with most living in couple-with-children households.
Their marriage rates are lower, and they often opt for de facto relationships, leading to fewer divorces.
Educationally, more than 60% of Gen X-ers pursued further qualifications, surpassing Baby Boomers. Many now hold managerial positions. Financial stability has followed, with Gen X dodging significant economic downturns like the Global Financial Crisis.
Interestingly, a slim majority voted for cannabis legalisation in 2020, reflecting their evolving views.
As they approach their 60s, Gen X is poised to be one of the healthiest and wealthiest generations.
