Being “simple” means “medium” According to the majority of Americans.
A survey that divides 2,000 Americans evenly between generation and gender found that 61% agree that being “frugal” than they were 10 years ago is less sticky.
Save smart is a new cool
In fact, the term no longer holds a harsh connotation, as respondents were most likely to avoid unnecessary spending (43%) rather than “cheap” (23%).
Furthermore, almost three-quarters of those surveyed agreed that being honest and open about being on budget is more socially acceptable (72%), and respondents even crafted by saving money.
Talker Research has been running on behalf of the banking app chime In honor of Financial Progress Month, the survey found that the definition of “financial progress” is unique to everyone. For Gen Z, that means you can buy what you want at the grocery store (32%), but for millennials, it’s about finding a way to raise the money you already have (31%).
For older generations, the definition expands to include having money left after paying the bills and expenses, or simply being able to put money into savings.
Still, for 43% of all Americans, “financial advancement” simply means they are in a better position than they were a year ago.
To test it, the survey found that 43% believe that their financial situation is generally better than they were five years ago, but a small number (29%) say the exact opposite.
Interestingly, Gen Z was most likely to say they were doing better (55%), while Baby Boomers were most likely to say they were doing worse (38%).
For some, these bumps on the road may turn to their loved ones for assistance. But even though it has become more socially acceptable, those conversations are not easy.
I would like to talk to friends about the people who were politically supported in the election (26%), medical concerns (19%), and how often they shower (18%) before sharing how much money they have in their bank accounts.
Meanwhile, Gen X (14%) and baby boomers (9%) people acknowledged that they had rather, rather, rather, rather, rather, gossip about other people’s children before communicating their friends.
Debt is a painful place, especially since one in five people want to talk to their colleagues about weight loss and dieting (20%), religious views (18%) or politics (18%).
Multiple people in 10th Generation Z (14%) and millennials (13%) may even discuss digestive issues with debt.
“Money has been a taboo topic for a long time, but it’s changing. Many people realize that open conversations about budgeting, savings and financial challenges are key to building confidence and making informed decisions.” “We believe that being comfortable talking about finances, like any other life goal, can help people control their financial future and support each other along the way.”
Even if they have their own sensitive topics, half of young Americans consider the older generation too private about their finances (51%).
One in six of all respondents expressed that they have not felt comfortable with “money talks” in the past five years.
Still, all 45% of those surveyed are more open to having a candid conversation about money today than they were five years ago.
Respondents who spent easier time in money talks said they found that they were receiving better advice from being open (42%), they were not ashamed of their struggle (25%), and said that these talks lead to better money habits (32%).
In fact, only 13% of Z are not used to asking friends and family questions, such as “how much money should you have for saving?” Or “What is 401(k)?” Compared to 44% of Gen X and an astounding 64% of the baby boomers.
On the contrary, Americans struggle with these candid conversations. Not because they don’t know what to ask, but because they say they’re financially worse than before (33%).
There’s a simple life in it, but talking about it still feels off limits
Others believe they should be in a better position than they do (31%) or feel embarrassed about their situation (29%).
Who do respondents find financial comfort? Nearly a third of Americans go to their parents first if they need $100 (31%), but lend it to their partner (34%) or best friend (31%).
But Americans are trying to pay it back. Results show that being able to deal with family and friends is the biggest indication of financially “making it” (40%), and having a lot of money in savings is a checking account (49%).
“The younger generations want more transparency around money, and for good reason, open conversations lead to better financial habits and smarter decisions,” added Sallenave. “We see this change reflected in recent social media trends that encourage people to talk more openly about their finances. Breaking the silence will help people gain insight, reduce stress and develop healthier relationships with money.
Research method:
The Talker survey examined a study in which 4,000 Americans split equally by gender and generation. The investigation was commissioned by chime Managed and implemented online by Talker Research March 13th and 21st, 2025.
