Boomers and Gen X think using cash still pays off, but Gen Z calls this old-school money habit ‘cringe’

Core Insights - The generational divide in payment methods highlights differing attitudes towards cash, with younger generations viewing it as outdated while older generations see its benefits [1][2][3] Group 1: Generational Perspectives on Cash - Nearly one-third of Gen Z respondents consider cash payments to be "out of touch" or "cringe," contrasting with the views of baby boomers and Gen X who appreciate the advantages of cash [1] - About 55% of Gen Z and a similar percentage of millennials feel they are "more likely to spend without thinking" when using cash, while only 33% of Gen X and 21% of baby boomers share this sentiment [2] Group 2: Psychological and Behavioral Factors - Older generations perceive cash as more tangible and real, while younger generations, having grown up with digital banking, do not share this same perception [3] - The difference in cash perception may stem from how money management was learned, with older individuals having more experience with physical currency [3] Group 3: Cash Usage and Financial Behavior - Lower-income consumers and adults aged 55 and older tend to rely more on cash, but this does not correlate with debt or savings [4][5] - The reliance on cash among lower-income individuals may be due to limited access to credit or financial caution rather than an inherent ability of cash to prevent debt [5]