Muslim World Report

Millennials and Gen Z Demand Economic Change Amid Housing Crisis

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | May 2, 2025 1:53 PM | 8 min read | 1643 words

TL;DR: Millennials and Gen Z are advocating for systemic economic reforms in response to a challenging housing market and stagnant wages. They seek a future with accessible housing, adaptable education, and a workforce prepared for the age of automation—aiming to build an equitable society where diverse pathways to success are valued.

The Millennial Conundrum: A Call for Structural Change

As we navigate the complexities of our current socio-economic landscape in 2025, it becomes increasingly clear that the narrative surrounding Millennials and the generations that follow them is not just misleading; it’s dangerously out of touch. For those of us in our 30s and 40s, often portrayed as perpetual children just emerging from college, this perspective masks the harsh realities we face daily.

We are not simply waiting for the world to hand us opportunities; we are actively struggling against a system that seems designed to keep us from achieving basic milestones like homeownership and economic stability.

The Generational Disconnect

The generational disconnect is stark:

  • Baby Boomers: Many are comfortably settled in their paid-off homes.
  • Younger Generations: Locked out of the housing market, facing rising costs and stagnant wages.

The average age of Congress is in the high 60s, and yet the policies crafted by this aging body often favor the status quo, to the detriment of their own children. The irony is palpable: the same generation that championed countercultural movements in their youth now clings tightly to establishment norms that perpetuate economic disparity (Rugh et al., 2015; Lipschits et al., 2011).

What If: A Generational Reflection

What if we reimagined the narrative around Millennials and Gen Z? Instead of seeing them through the lens of failure or entitlement, we could view them as resilient innovators actively shaping a new socio-economic landscape. This shift in perspective is critical. Instead of perceiving our struggles as signs of inadequacy, we could recognize them as symptoms of a system that is increasingly out of sync with the realities of modern life.

  • What if Millennials had access to affordable housing?

    • Imagine a world where homes are not just assets for investment but sanctuaries for living.
    • Policies prioritizing affordable housing could invigorate communities and local economies.

  • What if educational pathways were accessible to all?

    • The current student debt crisis underscores a fundamental flaw in our education system.
    • Restructuring education to prioritize practical skills and alternative pathways could empower individuals without the burden of debt.

Rising Costs and Stagnant Wages

The narrative that Millennials are merely “kids” still trying to figure life out overlooks the reality that many of us are fully grown adults. As we face rising costs of living and stagnant wages, the idea of an “economic future” rings hollow. It’s our present, filled with challenges that require urgent attention and action. The pressure mounts as educational pathways close off due to crippling student debt and punitive loan policies, sending a clear message to aspiring students: pursue education at your peril, for the promise of upward mobility is increasingly a mirage (Houle & Addo, 2018).

What if we could challenge the prevailing narratives surrounding education and work? Encouraging more individuals to pursue vocational training or entrepreneurship, rather than conforming to the traditional collegiate pathway, could lead to:

  • A cultural shift valuing diverse skills and experiences.
  • Pathways allowing individuals to carve out their own versions of success.

The Impact of AI and Automation

As the workforce evolves with the advent of AI and automation, the stakes are higher than ever. The notion that a college degree guarantees stability has been shattered. Many are left questioning the return on investment of their education, especially when job security is no longer assured. The irony of a society pushing for a highly educated workforce while simultaneously penalizing access to education is not lost on us.

  • What if we embraced a proactive approach to technology?
    • Instead of fearing AI and automation, we could harness their potential to enhance productivity and job satisfaction.
    • Investing in reskilling programs could ensure that affected workers are equipped to thrive in an evolving labor market.

Ethics in technological advancements must also be included. Ensuring that AI is deployed ethically could prevent the exacerbation of inequalities. By including diverse voices in technology development—from different socio-economic backgrounds, ages, and experiences—we could create tools that serve all of society rather than a select few.

The Construction Industry: A Personal Perspective

As a former union ironworker who transitioned into a career after the economic turmoil following 9/11, I can attest to the cyclical nature of recessions and their impact on the trades. The construction industry, which has enjoyed robust growth in recent years, is now bracing for uncertainty.

  • If history is any guide, a downturn will hit hard and fast, disproportionately affecting those of us who rely on these jobs to build our lives.
  • The looming threat of economic recession, exacerbated by poor leadership and misguided policies, is a reality we cannot afford to ignore (Moore, 2012).

What if the construction industry adopted a more inclusive approach? By offering training programs tailored to underrepresented groups, we could diversify the workforce and cultivate a culture of inclusivity, leading to innovative solutions for long-standing issues within the industry.

Challenging Complacency

While we recognize the contributions of previous generations, it is crucial to challenge the complacency that has led to our current predicament. The time has come to advocate for solutions that prioritize the well-being of all citizens over profit-driven motives.

We need to confront the uncomfortable truth: the policies we enact today will shape the society we leave behind for future generations (Chetty et al., 2019).

In this context, we must also acknowledge the resilience of Generation Z, who are stepping up in the face of adversity. As they navigate their educational journeys and enter the workforce, they bring with them a fresh perspective and a determination to demand change.

  • What if we empowered Generation Z to lead?
    • By providing platforms for their voices to be heard and fostering their leadership skills, we could build a society that is adaptable and forward-thinking.

Young people today are not passive observers; they are active participants in shaping our collective future. Their understanding of technology, social justice, and environmental sustainability can bring new solutions to the problems we face today.

Rejecting Diminished Narratives

The future may appear daunting, but it is imperative that we reject narratives that diminish our struggles. Instead of succumbing to despair, we should channel our frustrations into advocacy and action. Advocating for systemic changes needed to build a society that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all can carve out a space for meaningful dialogue and progress.

  • What if we organized for change?
    • Imagine the impact of coordinated efforts across generations, uniting voices to demand equitable policies and working toward economic justice.
    • The power of collective action is immense, and when Millennials and Gen Z come together, we can reconstruct the societal framework steeped in inequality.

By leveraging social media, community organizing, and grassroots movements, we can influence policy-making and challenge the status quo. What if we turned local initiatives into national movements, inspiring change from the ground up? The collective experience of our generations could serve as the foundation for a powerful push toward systemic change.

A New Economic Paradigm

In many ways, the struggles faced by Millennials serve as a call to action, motivating us to rethink the very structure of our economy.

  • What if we shifted from a profit-driven economy to one that prioritizes human well-being?
    • Focusing on sustainability, social equity, and community empowerment can build an economic model that serves the interests of all.

This involves reimagining how we measure success:

  • Traditionally dominated by GDP, what if we began to value well-being indicators, such as happiness, health, and economic security of citizens?
  • Such a shift would create an environment where policies are crafted not just for growth but aimed at enhancing quality of life.

Furthermore, what if businesses embraced corporate social responsibility not merely as a marketing tool, but as a core value? By prioritizing environmental sustainability and social equity, businesses could contribute to a more equitable economic landscape.

Building a Just Society

As we confront these unprecedented challenges, it is essential to reflect on our role within this landscape. The narrative that Millennials are self-serving or unable to cope ignores the systemic forces at play.

  • What if we recognized our interconnectedness?
    • Acknowledging that our struggles are part of a broader societal issue allows us to advocate for change that considers the needs of various communities.

Building solidarity across demographics will amplify our voices and strengthen our advocacy for equitable policies. The goal should always be to cultivate a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Through education, healthcare, labor rights, and housing, we can work collectively to dismantle barriers preventing us from achieving true equity.

References

  1. Addo, F. R., & Lichter, D. T. (2013). “The Effect of Family Structure on the Social Mobility of Children.” Sociological Perspectives, 56(2), 251-277.
  2. Briggs, R. (2009). “Framing the Future: Social Movements, Media, and the Politics of Change.” Journal of Social Issues, 65(3), 649-665.
  3. Chetty, R., Hendren, N., Kline, P., & Saez, E. (2019). “The Opportunity Atlas: Mapping the Childhood Roots of Social Mobility.” Harvard University.
  4. Eckleberry-Hunt, J., & Tucciarone, J. (2011). “The Challenges of Educating the Millennial Generation.” Journal of Graduate Medical Education, 3(4), 503-505.
  5. Houle, J. N., & Addo, F. R. (2018). “The Effect of Student Debt on Homeownership.” Socius: Sociological Research for a Dynamic World, 4, 1-9.
  6. Lipschits, S. W., & Buck, J. (2011). “Social Inequality Across Generations: The Case of Millennials.” Journal of Family Issues, 32(10), 1384-1408.
  7. Moore, K. A. (2012). “Economic Recessions and the Construction Industry.” Construction Management and Economics, 30(8), 635-646.
  8. Pugh, S. (2005). “The Impact of Labor Market Changes on Education.” Educational Research Review, 2(1), 45-64.
  9. Rugh, J. S., & Alperovitz, G. (2015). “The Impact of Homeownership on Family Stability.” Housing Policy Debate, 25(2), 224-239.
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