One of my pet peeves (and I do have several) is how the time frames that define the generations seem to change with each new study.
For the record, below is a breakdown of the current demographic generations.
Generation Alpha (2013–present)
· 0 to 11 years (as of 2024)
· Currently the youngest generation, born entirely in the digital age.
· Children of Millennials.
Gen Z (1997–2012)
· 12 to 27 years
· Digital natives, highly tech-savvy, many still in education or entering the workforce.
· Value diversity, mental health, and flexibility.
Millennials (Gen Y) (1981–1996)
· 28 to 43 years
· Now in peak working, spending, and family-raising years.
· Largest generation in Australia by population.
Generation X (1965–1980)
· 44 to 59 years
· Often labeled the ‘sandwiched’ generation many are in leadership roles; juggling careers, mortgages, boomerang children and ageing parents.
· Yet they value their independence and like to think of themselves as resilient.
Baby Boomers (1946–1964)
· 60 to 78 years
· Retiring or already retired.
· Significant influence on wealth, politics, and housing.
The Silent Generation (1928–1945)
· 79 to 96 years
· Retired, many in aged, related care or living with their children and sometimes grandkids.
· Now – in the main - the oldest cohort, typically born pre-WWII.
In general, there is a 15-year age gap between generations. Yet the older generations are slightly longer.
However – and despite my introductory whinge - generations aren’t just defined by strict age intervals, but rather by shared experiences, cultural shifts, and major events that shape attitudes, values, and behaviours.
They are fuzzy defines. They’re guides, not hard lines.
Someone born in 1980 might relate more to Gen X or Millennials, depending on life experience. These "cuspers" often act as bridges between generations.
My chart this post outlines each generation's birth range and typical housing characteristics - from the Silent Generation's downsizing trends to Gen Z's rental market entry and Gen Alpha’s school-zone-driven housing needs.
Postscript
And I am a Gen Xer – well just. And, yes, I do value my independence and resilience, thank you very much. And talk about sandwiched.
Lettuce have a laugh. You’re bacon me. We’re on a roll here. Rye so serious?
Enough already!
That’s a wrap!