What Gen X Wants the Next Generation to Know About Money

Generation X, often called the “middle child” generation, has quietly shaped culture, the economy and the workplace. Now, as the oldest Gen Xers approach retirement, they’re reflecting on their financial journeys.

And their message to younger Americans is clear: Do not make the same mistakes we did.

A new CFP Board survey, Lessons Learned: A Survey of American Gen Xers, finds that many in this generation feel the weight of financial regrets, especially around retirement savings. With hindsight, Gen Xers are eager to share lessons that could help younger Americans build stronger financial futures.

Retirement Savings Shortfalls

Gen Xers have much to celebrate. Nearly 4 in 5 Gen X Americans say they are satisfied with raising children, and more than half are happy with other personal achievements. But when it comes to retirement readiness, the picture is less encouraging.

Only 37% of Gen Xers say they are satisfied with their retirement savings. The gap is striking across gender and income lines: Nearly half of Gen X men are satisfied, compared to just a quarter of Gen X women. Higher earners ($100,000+) are more than twice as likely as lower earners to be satisfied with their retirement savings (55% vs. 26%).

Financial Regrets

More than 9 in 10 Gen Xers regret delaying financial planning for major life events. Aside from that month when they had a perm, Gen Xers’ biggest regret is not having planned earlier for retirement.

More than half wish they had prioritized retirement in their 20s and 30s, while a third specifically regret not contributing more — or at all — to workplace retirement plans like 401(k)s. These regrets carry real costs: The typical Gen Xer estimates losing nearly $100,000 over their lifetime due to financial mistakes.

Misconceptions That Cost

Some financial regrets stem from misconceptions Gen Xers held early in adulthood. More than 2 in 5 believed they had plenty of time to save for retirement. Financial misconceptions like these can delay critical financial decisions and take a toll not just on one’s wallet, but on their financial wellbeing as well.

Half of Gen Xers say past decisions have fueled stress and anxiety, and more than a third report feeling less financially security because of earlier mistakes.

One way to avoid such pitfalls is by starting earlier and seeking guidance from a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional.

Passing on the Wisdom

The silver lining is that Gen Xers are using their insight to help others avoid making the same mistakes. Gen Xers believe younger Americans can build stronger financial futures by learning from their experience.

As Gen Xers move toward retirement, their reflections remind us that financial security is not just about money — it’s about confidence, opportunity and peace of mind.

For younger generations, the message is clear: Don’t wait. The earlier you start planning for the future, the stronger and more resilient your financial foundation will be. Even if retirement feels a long way away, the benefits of starting now will last a lifetime.