87% of Gen Z Workers Feel Underpaid, Despite Six-Figure Salaries

Most Gen Z workers in the U.S. are entering the workforce with serious financial concerns.  

A recent survey by ResumeTemplates.com revealed that 87% of Gen Z workers feel they are underpaid — even among those earning six-figure salaries. This perception reflects broader economic pressures across the country that are driving young employees to seek higher wages and greater financial stability. 

The survey, conducted among 1,750 full-time employees aged 17 to 27, found that only 13% of Gen Z believe they are compensated fairly. Despite entering the workforce relatively recently, with most having less than four years of full-time employment experience, the majority of respondents reported earning less than $60,000 annually.  

The survey reveals 33% make under $30,000, 46% earn between $30,000 and $60,000, and only 6% have salaries exceeding $100,000. 

“Workers who have invested money into education or training want to get a return on their investment,” ResumeTemplates’ Chief Career Strategist Julia Toothacre said. “However, as they are early in their career, most Gen Zers likely don’t have enough experience to be making as much as maybe they would like to. It takes time to move up in the ranks and earn a higher salary. Not only that, but older generations have to up or out to create those opportunities.”  

Cost of living concerns are also high among young workers. The data shows 40% of respondents indicated they struggle to make ends meet on their current incomes, and 20% believe they should be earning over $100,000 annually to live comfortably.  

These financial pressures have compelled some Gen Zers to look for alternatives abroad as digital nomads. Newsweek reports that 45% of Gen Z expats had left the U.S. seeking a lower cost of living. Moreover, 33% of those surveyed acknowledged that their financial difficulties could be mitigated by lifestyle adjustments — such as finding cheaper housing or reducing nonessential expenses.  

As young workers prioritize greater financial security and explore alternative living arrangements — such as digital nomadism and the gig economy — companies may need to offer more competitive salaries, flexible work options, and cost-of-living adjustments to attract and retain top Gen Z talent. The demand for higher wages, combined with a desire for work-life balance, will likely influence workplaces for years to come.