Upworthy
Gen Z couple learns how much money they'd need to earn to buy a house and can't…
"That is diabolical."
14k
2M
105k
9M
New Viral Video Reveals Staggering Disparity in Generational Home Ownership Potential
Generational Wealth Gap Illuminated: Today's Minimum Wage vs. 1970s Home Buying PowerA recent viral video featuring content creator Nikki (@iarbosss) and an individual identified as Derek has sparked considerable debate online, highlighting the widening economic disparity between generations. The video, uploaded on July 23, 2025, presents a stark comparison of minimum wage earning power.In the video, Derek poses a critical question: "How much would minimum wage need to be today to match the home buying power of um boomers getting minimum wage in the 1970s?" Nikki initially guessed $35, a figure she later described as "diabolical." Derek then revealed the calculated answer: "$66."The revelation quickly led to Nikki's distressed reaction, stating, "We don't stand a chance, you guys. We're screwed." The video's premise challenges the common narrative from some older generations that younger people "don't want to work" or should "stop buying coffee," by illustrating a significant decline in purchasing power for minimum wage earners.Online comments reflect a strong resonance with the video's message. One user lamented, "I make $77k a year. If it was 30 years ago I would have a house with a pool and a nice car and could go on vacations. Now I can barely afford my 1bdrm apt." Another shared a personal anecdote: "My dad worked part time for the post office when he was 19. I asked him what he earned in 1976. With inflation it works out for $43/hr in today’s money. Current PT staff make $22/hr." The discussion underscores widespread frustration regarding housing affordability and stagnant wages relative to historical economic conditions.
