The Delayed Milestones of Young Adulthood in the US

Young adults in the US are taking longer to achieve financial independence and other key life milestones compared to four decades ago, according to a Pew Research Center analysis. The study found that in 2021, 21-year-olds were less likely to have a full-time job, be financially independent, live on their own, be married, or have children than their predecessors from 1980. The reasons for the differences include higher college enrollment and higher costs for housing, buying a car, food, and gas. More than two-thirds of parents have made or are currently making financial sacrifices to assist their adult children, but experts advise parents to examine their own situation before offering help.