9 key insights on millennials' characteristics
June 14th, 2024, Kineree Shah

9 key insights on millennials' characteristics

What are the characteristics of a millennial? Here are some fascinating insights from YouGov Profiles on how American millennials live, work, and play, highlighting key millennials characteristics .

  1. 16% of millennials live with their parents

When it comes to their current living arrangements, 16% of millennials still live with their parents. Meanwhile, 54% have settled down with their partners or spouses.

2. 16% of millennials make more than $100,000 in a year

Millennials are making more money than other generations, with 16% earning $100,000 or more per year. In comparison, only 6% of Gen Z, 15% of Gen X, and 11% of baby boomers earn this much. However, 12% of millennials have less than $100 saved in their savings account.

3. 24% of millennials are planning to buy a new car in the next 12 months

In the next 12 months, 24% of millennials are planning to buy a new car, while 14% are looking to buy a used car. Additionally, 6% are considering leasing a car. Among those buying, 13% are most interested in purchasing an SUV.

4. Seven in 10 millennials are gamers

Seven in 10 millennials spend more than an hour each week playing video games (69%). In the next six months, 13% plan to buy a gaming chair, and 15% are looking to purchase a gaming headset. Additionally, 28% are fans of esports, showing their deep engagement in the gaming world. These millennials characteristics highlight their strong interest in digital entertainment.

5. 54% of millennials use Android phones

More than half of millennials (54%) use Android phones, while 38% use iOS. Within the next 4-9 months, a quarter plan to buy a new phone or trade in their current one. Also, 15% are considering switching their network carrier in the next six months.

6. One in five millennials have placed a bet on basketball at least once in the past year

Sports betting is popular among millennials, with 21% having placed bets on basketball and/ or soccer in the last year. Meanwhile, 13% have bet on baseball, and 11% on boxing. When it comes to spending, 11% have spent between $100 and $499, and 9% have spent between $500 and $1,999 on sports betting in the past 12 months.

7. One in 10 millennials wear makeup every day

Nearly half of millennials (49%) follow a skincare regimen. Additionally, 10% wear makeup every day, and 9% have spent between $100 and $499 on makeup products in the last three months.

8. Two in five millennials like rock music

Millennials have diverse music tastes, with 42% favoring rock and/ or pop, and 41% enjoying rap or hip-hop. Interestingly, 35% are willing to pay for music on vinyl records, showing a blend of modern and retro preferences.

9. 22% of millennials say sustainability influences their buying decisions

Sustainability matters to millennials, with 22% saying that environmental impact heavily influences their buying habits. This is higher than other generations, with 18% of Gen Z, 14% of Gen X, and 12% of baby boomers considering sustainability in their purchases. This reflects a millennial attitude towards responsible consumption.

Millennials are shaping their lifestyles with a mix of tradition and modernity, reflecting their diverse interests and values. From their living arrangements to their spending habits, this generation continues to pave its own unique path.

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Methodology: YouGov Profiles is based on continuously collected data and rolling surveys, rather than from a single limited questionnaire. Profiles data for the US is nationally representative and weighted by age, gender, education, region, and race.