As the Class of 2025 prepares to graduate and Gen Z navigates early adulthood, a new report from Intuit, the maker of TurboTax, Credit Karma, Mailchimp and QuickBooks, reveals that young adults are entering one of the toughest financial markets in years — but they’re doing so with a measured sense of optimism and a clear plan.
According to the Intuit Prosperity Index 2025: Life-ing Edition, young adults ages 18–25 are feeling the pressure of inflation, job market uncertainty and rising living costs. Yet, rather than panic, many are pivoting to planning. The survey, conducted online in April 2025 with 1,500 Gen Z respondents, found that 42% describe themselves as “cautiously optimistic” about the future, while 75% are hesitant to set long-term financial goals in today’s economic climate.
Overall, 45% said they feel more financially hesitant than they did last year. The cost of living tops their list of stressors, with 98% naming it their number one concern, followed by job security (87%), saving money (47%), and paying bills or managing debt.
The study also highlights a gap in financial education. Many young adults said they weren’t taught essential financial skills in school, and wish they had learned how to invest (50%), how credit works (46%), how to file taxes (44%) and how to budget and save (42%). In the absence of formal training, they’re increasingly turning to family, friends and social media for guidance.
The report finds that Gen Z’s definition of success is also shifting. Today’s young adults prioritize financial peace of mind and independence over displays of wealth. Top goals include having a well-funded savings account (59%), paying rent or mortgage without stress (43%) and covering all expenses comfortably (25%).
Flexibility is also a priority. Thirty-seven percent of respondents said they would be willing to work longer hours if it meant they could enjoy the freedom of remote work. Many are also turning to side hustles for financial stability. One in four (26%) already has a secondary income stream, and 56% hope to have two or three within the next five years.
According to the survey, 37% want to start a side hustle, though 29% say they don’t know where to begin. For this generation, multiple income streams are not just a convenience but a strategy for survival and growth.
As financial pressure mounts, 60% of young adults said that more access to financial education would increase their confidence in navigating adulthood. Intuit’s report underscores the role of digital tools, education platforms, and accessible financial resources in helping them meet that goal.
The data paints a portrait of a generation that is cautious but capable, grounded in realism but still hopeful. They’re designing a vision of prosperity that prioritizes independence, security, and adaptability — on their terms.
