Gen Z and Millennials: Work-life balance is most important goal despite the impact of cost of living
- Cost of living remains the top concern for both Gen Z (44%) and Millennials (52%) in the UK;
- Work-life balance is the top career goal for both generations in the UK;
- Both generations are interested in leadership roles, but fewer than 5% say it is their primary goal;
- Vast majority of UK Gen Z and Millennials say their mental health is good, but family health, finances, and long working hours are sources of anxiety;
- Both generations feel AI has positively impacted both their personal and work lives.
While the cost of living is the top concern for both UK generations (for 44% of Gen Zs and 52% of millennials), Deloitte’s 2026 Gen Z and Millennial Survey* reveals that work-life balance is their top career goal (20% of Gen Zs and 24% of millennials), followed by achieving financial independence (19% and 18%) and becoming an expert in their field (16% and 12%).
Now in its 15th year, the survey gathered insights from more than 22,500 Gen Z and Millennial respondents across 44 countries, including 806 participants from the UK. The survey explored their perspectives, experiences, and career ambitions.
Financial pressure is reshaping professional timelines
According to the survey, financial strain is widespread among both generations in the UK, with around 40% (41% and 43%) indicating that they live payslip to payslip.
46% of Gen Zs and 46% of millennials in the UK say they have delayed major life decisions due to their financial situation, and more than half of Gen Z (55%) and Millennials (59%) say that the affordability of housing impacts their career decisions.
