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Michael Fabus

The Student Loan Debt Crisis: Unpacking Why Millennials and Gen Z Owe More

Updated: Apr 17

In recent years, the rising tide of student loan debt has become a pressing concern, particularly for Millennials and Gen Z. These two generations are grappling with staggering levels of student debt, far surpassing what their predecessors faced. This article delves into the reasons behind the escalating student loan burden borne by Millennials and Gen Z and sheds light on the daunting figures that depict the extent of their financial challenges.


The Changing Landscape of Higher Education

To comprehend the soaring student loan debt carried by Millennials and Gen Z, it's essential to consider the evolving landscape of higher education. The cost of attending colleges and universities has risen significantly over the past few decades. Tuition fees, accommodation costs, and the overall cost of living have outpaced inflation, making education an increasingly expensive endeavor.


Tuition Inflation and Decreased State Funding

One of the primary reasons for the surge in student loan debt is the tuition inflation that has hit higher education institutions. Public universities, in particular, have witnessed a decline in state funding, leading them to pass on the financial burden to students. In fact, college tuition inflation averaged 12% annually from 2010 to 2022 according to statistics from the Education Data Initiative. With limited financial aid available, many students have turned to loans to cover the escalating costs of education.


The Demand for Advanced Degrees

Millennials and Gen Z have been advised, often rightly so, that obtaining a higher education degree can open doors to better job opportunities and higher earning potential. As a result, there's been a growing emphasis on pursuing advanced degrees, such as master's and doctoral programs. These degrees come with heftier price tags, further contributing to the debt burden.


The Influence of Student Loan Policies

Changes in student loan policies have also played a role in exacerbating the debt crisis. The shift towards making loans more accessible, often with limited financial literacy education, has led to an increased reliance on loans to finance education. Additionally, the interest rates associated with these loans can accumulate significantly over time, adding to the overall debt load.


The Weight of Compound Interest

One of the critical factors that differentiate the student loan crisis today from previous generations is the compounding effect of interest. The longer it takes for individuals to repay their loans, the more they end up owing due to interest accrual. This situation is particularly challenging for those who might face financial hardships or delayed entry into the workforce after graduation.


The Rising Cost of Living

Millennials and Gen Z are navigating a world where the cost of living is often unaligned with wages. High costs of housing, healthcare, and other essentials mean that a larger portion of their income goes towards these necessities, leaving less room for managing student loan payments. This confluence of financial pressures can lead to a perpetual cycle of debt. More recently, inflation has been at a 40-year high as a result of the government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. While student loans have been in forbearance for several years, interest accruals will resume on September 1. The rapid increase in cost of living, combined with the resumption of student loans will add significant financial pressure on some borrowers.


The Impact of the Great Recession

The timing of the Great Recession during the late 2000s significantly affected the financial standing of Millennials. Entering the workforce during a period of economic downturn meant that many of them faced difficulties in finding stable, well-paying jobs. This setback forced some to return to school for further education or to take on multiple part-time jobs, leading to increased reliance on student loans.


The Alarming Numbers: How Much More They Owe

To put the gravity of the situation into perspective, let's take a look at the numbers. According to data from the Federal Reserve, the total student loan debt in the United States has surpassed $1.7 trillion. Millennials hold the largest share of this debt, with a staggering average of around $35,000 in student loans per borrower. This is a significant increase from previous generations, even after accounting for inflation.


Gen Z, while still in the early stages of their education journeys, are also facing mounting student loan debt. A report by the nonprofit organization MeasureOne reveals that the average student loan balance for Gen Z members, as of 2020, was approximately $14,500. This is concerning considering that Gen Z has recently begun to enter higher education, suggesting that their debt burden could increase as they progress through their academic pursuits.


The Path Forward: Seeking Solutions

Addressing the student loan crisis requires a multipronged approach that involves policymakers, educational institutions, and individuals. Policies that promote affordable education, increased financial literacy, and improved access to grants and scholarships can help mitigate the growing debt burden. Moreover, institutions can take steps to curb tuition inflation and provide more comprehensive financial aid packages.


For Millennials and Gen Z, exploring alternative education pathways, such as vocational training, apprenticeships, and online courses, can provide avenues to gain valuable skills without accumulating extensive debt. Additionally, individuals must be proactive in managing their financial situation, seeking guidance on loan repayment options and making informed decisions about their education choices.


Employers looking for a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top Millennial and Gen Z talent should consider offering a student loan repayment benefit. Doing so will position the company as a forward-thinking employer that puts its employees first. Businesses that have offered a student loan repayment benefit have also reaped the benefits of a more engaged and satisfied workforce, and they have enjoyed boosts to their bottom lines as a result.


All in all, the student loan debt crisis facing Millennials and Gen Z is a multifaceted issue with deep-rooted causes. The escalating cost of education, coupled with changes in loan policies and the impact of economic events, has led to a situation where these generations owe more than ever before. As society grapples with finding solutions, it's imperative to advocate for affordable education and empower individuals with the tools they need to make informed financial decisions. By doing so, we can work towards alleviating the burden of student loan debt and creating a brighter financial future for later generations.


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