This is why Gen Z and Millennials are feeling bitter towards Boomers. It really is different now. This is the result of a combination of factors. Lousy monetary policy (leaving the gold standard in 1971) and horrible fiscal policy (Congress running up $38 trillion in debt). Plus also open borders and H-1B policies, which have suppressed incomes for Americans. The Boomers (and the Silent Generation) made decisions in the 1960s (and after) which have gradually crushed the American dream.