General

For many people, adulthood doesn’t arrive with a mortgage or a baby announcement—it arrives the day you ask, “Wait… who pays for this if my apartment floods?”

Welcome to the world of renter’s insurance. It’s one of those grown-up responsibilities that doesn’t get the same attention as health coverage or retirement planning, but if you’re renting, it might be the smartest small decision you make.

Let’s start with when renting is most common—and who it affects.

📊 According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 36% of U.S. households were renting their homes as of 2023. But renting isn’t spread evenly across the population.

📊 When looking at the different age groups, among adults under 35, nearly 65% are renters, compared to 41% of those ages 35–44, and just 22% of those 45–64. For those 65 and older, renting drops to about 18%.

From a generational point of view, this means that Gen Z and Millennials are the generations that make up the largest portion of renters in the U.S.—and yet, these same groups are often the least likely to carry protection for the space they call home.

These younger generations are often digital-first, subscription-savvy, and cost-conscious. But despite those instincts, renter’s insurance still tends to fall through the cracks.

What Renter’s Insurance Actually Is

Despite what some assume, renter’s insurance doesn’t cover the building you live in—that’s your landlord’s job. What it covers is everything inside your space: your stuff, your liability, and your ability to stay somewhere else if something goes wrong.

A typical renters insurance policy includes:

• Personal property coverage: Things like electronics, clothes, and furniture
• Liability protection: If someone gets injured in your apartment and sues
• Additional living expenses: If a fire or water damage forces you to move temporarily

It’s basic, but it’s powerful.

But Is It Worth It?

📊 The average renter owns more than $30,000 in personal belongings (source).

📊 And yet, only 57% of renters in the U.S. have a policy in place—compared to 88% of homeowners.

Why the gap?

Some renters assume their landlord’s insurance covers them. Others don’t think their belongings are valuable enough. And many simply don’t realize how low the cost is.

📊 The national average cost of renters insurance is just $14 per month, or $168 per year (source).

What Does It Cover (And What Doesn’t It)?

A renters insurance policy typically covers:

• Theft
• Fire and smoke damage
• Water damage (from burst pipes, not floods)
• Windstorms
• Vandalism
• Temporary relocation expenses

It also offers liability protection if someone gets hurt in your home or you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property (think: water leaks into your downstairs neighbor’s apartment).

But policies usually don’t cover:

• Floods or earthquakes (unless you buy separate coverage)
• Pest damage (like bed bugs or rodents)
• Normal wear and tear

If you own high-value items like an engagement ring or rare collectibles, you may need to add scheduled personal property coverage for full protection.

What Happens If You Don’t Have It?

Without coverage, any damage, loss, or liability falls on you. That means:

• Replacing everything out of pocket after a fire or break-in
• Covering legal expenses if someone sues you for an injury
• Paying for hotel stays if your place becomes unlivable

📊 In 2022, 1 in 20 insured homes filed a property damage claim. Renters aren’t immune to those same risks—they just don’t always prepare for them.

What It’s Like to File a Claim

Let’s say your apartment is broken into while you’re at work. Your laptop, gaming console, and a few pieces of jewelry are stolen—total value, about $3,200.

You file a police report and notify your insurer. After confirming your deductible (say, $500), the company pays the difference—$2,700—within a few days or weeks.

That’s a smoother outcome than paying $3,200 out of pocket with no recourse.

How Much Coverage Do You Actually Need?

Start by adding up the value of everything you own. You might be surprised by how quickly it adds up.

📊 A 2023 Zillow survey found that most renters underestimate the value of their belongings by 30–50%.

You’ll also want to choose:

• A deductible you can comfortably pay out of pocket
• Liability protection (typically $100,000+)
• Additional living expenses coverage (especially if you live in a large metro area where hotels are costly)

Common Myths About Renter’s Insurance

“My landlord’s insurance will cover my stuff.”
Nope—it only covers the building.

“My stuff isn’t worth that much.”
See above—once you tally furniture, electronics, clothing, kitchenware, it adds up fast.

“It’s too expensive.”
Most policies cost less than a streaming subscription.

“I’ll worry about it later.”
By then, it might be too late.

Why It’s Often Required—And Still Overlooked

📊 According to a 2023 NMHC/Kingsley survey, 78% of landlords now require tenants to carry renters insurance before move-in.

And yet, many renters still skip it after move-in, especially in smaller buildings where enforcement is weak.

Getting it checked off early is a simple way to protect your lease—and your lifestyle.

How to Shop for a Policy

Here’s what to look for when comparing renters insurance quotes:

• Coverage limits: Match to the value of your stuff
• Deductibles: Balance affordability and risk
• Policy features: Look for liability, property, and displacement coverage
• Claim process: Read reviews on claim handling before choosing
• Bundling discounts: May be available if you already have auto insurance

Final Thought: A Quiet Safety Net

Renter’s insurance doesn’t scream “adulting win,” but it is one.

“You don’t need to own the building to take ownership of what’s inside it.”

Whether you’re living solo, with roommates, or raising a family, renter’s insurance is a small investment that protects you when the unexpected shows up uninvited.

Who are the Millennials?

Millennials, also known as Generation Y, are individuals born roughly between 1981 and 1996.

What is a Millennial?

It is a person born between 1981 and 1996.

Why are Millennials called that?

They are called that because they came of age at the turn of the millennium, around the year 2000. The term refers to their coming-of-age years coinciding with the transition to the new millennium.

What is a Millennial vs Gen Y?

Millennials are often referred to as Gen Y. The terms are interchangeable, both describing the generation born roughly between 1981 and 1996. Gen Y comes after Gen X and before Gen Z.

What is the Millennial generation birth years range?

The birth years for the this generation typically range from 1981 to 1996, although some definitions may slightly vary depending on the source.

What is the age range for Millennials in 2025?

As of 2025, they are between the ages of 29 and 44.

How old is the youngest Millennial in 2025?

In 2025, the youngest Millennial will be 29 years old, as they were born in 1996, which is the last year of this generation.

How old is the oldest Millennial in 2025?

​In 2025, the oldest Millennials, born in 1981, will be 44 years old. ​

What generation comes before Millennials?

The generation before Millennials is Generation X, which includes individuals born between 1965 and 1980.

What generation comes after Millennials?

The generation that comes after Millennials is Generation Z (Gen Z). This generation generally includes individuals born between 1997 and the early 2010s.

Is someone born in 1987 a millennial or Gen Z?

If you were born in 1987, you are part of the Millennial generation.

Is someone born in 1996 a Millennial?

Yes, individuals born in 1996 are considered Millennials.

What are Millennials known for?

They are known for their technological fluency, progressive values, and focus on work-life balance. They prioritize experiences over material goods and are often seen as socially conscious, seeking to make a positive impact on the world.

What are the Characteristics of Millennials?

They are often described as tech-savvy, diverse, and highly educated. They tend to value experiences over material possessions and prioritize work-life balance. They are known for their creativity, adaptability, and desire for meaningful work.

Am I Gen Z or Millennial?

If you were born between 1997 and the early 2010s, you are part of Gen Z. If you were born between 1981 and 1996, you are a Millennial.

Am I a Millennial or Gen X?

If you were born between 1965 and 1980, you’re part of Generation X. If you were born between 1981 and 1996, you’re a Millennial.

Ah, Millennials – that magical generation born between 1981 and 1996 who get a bad rap for being lazy, avocado-obsessed, and addicted to their phones. But guess what? They’re not all the same! In fact, Millennials come in all shapes, sizes, and life stages, and it’s time we break down the different types of Millennials that exist in this beautiful, digital-driven world. Strap in, grab your avocado toast, and let’s dive into the four types of Millennials: the “Geriatric Millennials,” the “Great Recession Millennials,” the “Peak Millennials,” and the “Cusper Millennials.”

The Geriatric Millennial (1981 to 1984)

“We remember the dial-up internet days and like it that way.”

First off, let’s talk about the “Geriatric Millennials.” No, they’re not literally ancient – but they do remember a time when the internet was a luxury and not a basic human right. These are the Millennials who were born between 1981 and 1984, and they’re often the forgotten middle child of the Millennial group. You know, they’re not quite Gen X, but not entirely the full digital natives either.

Geriatric Millennials had to earn their internet privileges. Remember the good ol’ days of dial-up internet, where you’d hear that iconic screeching sound and, if you were lucky, you could check your email… after waiting for 20 minutes? Yeah, that was their reality.

They also remember playing outside, riding bikes, and the thrill of getting their first mobile phone – a big, chunky Nokia (no, not an iPhone). These folks straddle the line between the pre-internet world and the fully digital one, so while they might not be completely tech-averse, they also aren’t about to spend their entire day scrolling through TikTok like some of their younger Millennial counterparts. You can probably catch them on Facebook (yes, it’s still a thing for them) but they may just still prefer the feel of a paper book over an e-reader.

In short: Geriatric Millennials are the group that remembers what life was like before the internet took over, but they’ve adapted quite well to the new world. They’re the “in-betweeners” who know how to live offline, but also wouldn’t mind skipping the dial-up nostalgia.

The Great Recession Millennial (1985 to 1989)

“We entered the workforce during a global financial meltdown. Nothing like a little economic chaos to shape your worldview!”

Next up, we’ve got the Great Recession Millennials, born between 1985 and 1989. Now, these guys and gals didn’t just live through the 2008 financial crash—they came of age during it. If anyone understands the phrase “welcome to the real world,” it’s the Great Recession Millennials. They entered adulthood right when the job market was in the toilet, student loans were skyrocketing, and “getting a decent job” was basically like finding a unicorn.

While other Millennials may have had some hope for financial stability, the Great Recession Millennials learned quickly that adulthood is really just a series of low-paying jobs, overpriced avocado toast, and trying to avoid being buried under credit card debt. They were the ones who put off buying houses, delayed starting families, and spent their 20s scraping by – but hey, at least they could finally get a decent Wi-Fi connection.

A defining trait of the Great Recession Millennials? Financial caution. Unlike some of their younger counterparts who came into a booming economy, this group is much more likely to prioritize saving money, seeking stability, and questioning whether a daily $5 coffee is truly necessary (even though they secretly still buy one every day).

In short: The Great Recession Millennials are the hard-working, pragmatic bunch who may be financially cautious, but hey—they’ve learned to hustle and make do with what they’ve got. If you’re wondering where all the coupon clippers went, you’ve found them right here.

The Peak Millennial (1990 to 1993)

“We were raised on the internet, but we also remember a world without smartphones. It’s the best of both worlds!”

Ah, the Peak Millennials – born between 1990 and 1993, this group is often considered the “prime” Millennial generation. They’re the ones who got to experience the rise of the internet, but also remember a time when you had to actually talk to people face-to-face (shocking, I know). These folks were young enough to catch the tail end of pre-digital life but old enough to jump straight into the social media revolution when it kicked off in the early 2000s.

Peak Millennials were the first to really embrace social media platforms like Facebook and MySpace (yes, MySpace was a thing, don’t fight it), and they were part of the wave that saw the birth of the smartphone. They were the last group to use flip phones and the first to have real touchscreens. This generation knows the joy of having a solid, pre-smartphone childhood, but they also know the allure of sending endless selfies on Instagram, snapping TikToks, and posting updates on Twitter.

They’re the ones who shaped digital culture and watched the world change in real-time, from the rise of YouTube influencers to the explosion of meme culture. They’re also probably still the most active on Facebook, ironically, but that’s just a product of their loyalty to platforms that were once cool.

In short: Peak Millennials are the perfect balance of old-school and new-school. They know how to survive a weekend without Wi-Fi but also understand the power of a perfectly curated Instagram feed. They’re like the cool older siblings of social media.

The Cusper Millennial (1994 to 1996)

“We grew up with smartphones, but we don’t totally get the Gen Z vibe. We’re in between, and we like it that way!”

Finally, we have the Cusper Millennials. Born between 1994 and 1996, these Millennials are often referred to as being on the cusp of Gen Z. They’re the ones who got to experience the first wave of social media, but they didn’t grow up with it in the same way that Gen Z did. Cusper Millennials still remember a time when social media wasn’t completely ubiquitous (remember the Facebook invite to your birthday party days?) but were also fully plugged into the digital age by their teen years.

Unlike their older Millennial siblings, the Cusper group was often seen as “young enough” to fit in with Gen Z but just “old enough” to feel like they’ve had some Millennial experiences. They don’t feel fully like Millennials, but they don’t feel like Gen Z either. This identity crisis gives them a unique perspective on how technology has shaped their lives. They still enjoy a good Facebook scroll but also know the superiority of TikTok dances.

In short: Cusper Millennials are the digital bridge. They’re not quite Gen Z, but they’re not entirely Millennials either. They get to enjoy the perks of both worlds, but they’re stuck in that awkward “too old for TikTok, too young for Facebook” situation. But don’t worry—there’s no crisis here. They’re thriving.

As you can see, Millennials are far from being a monolith. Whether you’re a Geriatric Millennial, a Great Recession Millennial, a Peak Millennial, or a Cusper Millennial, each type has unique experiences and outlooks shaped by the world they grew up in. So, which one are you?

If you were born between the early ‘80s and mid-‘90s, congratulations—you might be a millennial. And if you’ve ever uttered the words “Can’t even,” or “That’s so extra,” you’re definitely fluent in a language that once ruled Tumblr, Facebook, and the golden age of memes. Millennial slang phrases and words were born at the intersection of dial-up internet and the dawn of the smartphone, raised on AIM (AOL Instant Messenger) away messages and nurtured by Vine, BuzzFeed quizzes, and binge-worthy Netflix shows.

While Gen Z may have taken the social media mic today, millennials walked so Gen Zs could run. So whether you’re here for a trip down memory lane or just want to know what we were saying before TikTok became a thing, here’s your ultimate list of millennial slang that still has us feeling some type of way.

The Most Popular Slang Phrases Millennials Use

1. Adulting – Pretending you’ve got it all together. Like paying rent. Or doing laundry.
2. Basic – Someone who’s painfully predictable (Pumpkin Spice Latte, anyone?).
3. FOMO – Fear of missing out on all the fun while you sit at home in your PJs.
4. YOLO – You Only Live Once (aka the battle cry for every impulsive decision).
5. Ghosting – Disappearing from someone’s life without explanation. Boo.
6. On fleek – Perfectly styled or executed. Usually eyebrows.
7. Bae – Before anyone else. Or just… anyone you’re into.
8. Bye Felicia – A sassier way to say “get lost,” made iconic by the movie Friday.
9. Lit – Amazing, exciting, popping off (mostly parties, sometimes brunch).
10. Slay – To absolutely kill it, especially in a fierce outfit or bold move.
11. Totes – Short for totally. Bonus: “totes adorbs.”
12. Humblebrag – Bragging… but with fake modesty.
13. Squad – Your tight-knit group of friends. Think Taylor Swift circa 2014.
14. Throw shade – Subtly (or not so subtly) insulting someone.
15. Thirsty – Desperate for attention (or affection).
16. Can’t even – Complete emotional overload. Usually means you literally can’t function.
17. Turnt – Wild, hyped up, usually with the help of alcohol or loud music.
18. Zero chill – Lacking any ounce of subtlety or calm.
19. I’m dead – Something’s so funny, you’ve metaphorically died laughing.
20. AF – As f***. Used for emphasis (e.g., “Hungry AF”).
21. No chill – When someone is being dramatic or extra. See also: zero chill.
22. Extra – Over the top in a way that is not at all necessary.
23. Side hustle – Your freelance gig, Etsy shop, or ride-share route to supplement your income.
24. Shook – Shocked, amazed, or emotionally rattled.
25. Woke – Originally meaning socially aware, now occasionally used sarcastically.
26. #Blessed – Used to express gratitude or mock how often others express gratitude.
27. Low-key / High-key – Quietly into something vs. very obviously into something.
28. Throwback / TBT – A nostalgic nod to the past, usually shared on a Thursday.
29. Cray / Cray-cray – Crazy, but with more drama.
30. Hangry – So hungry you’re angry.
31. Feels – Deep emotions. Usually triggered by music, movies, or old Facebook albums.
32. Savage – Someone who says or does something brutally honest.
33. Clapback – A quick, witty comeback (and usually brutal).
34. Deadass – Seriously. No joke. For real.
35. Mood – A vibe, a whole mood, a general statement of relatability.
36. Netflix and chill – Not just watching Netflix. You know what it means.
37. Adult beverage – A classy way to say “I need a drink.”
38. All the things – Everything you want or need at once. (e.g., “Give me coffee, a nap, and a puppy. All the things.”).
39. Obvi – Short for “obviously.” Used when something is a no-brainer.
40. Ugh, same – A highly relatable response that means “I feel that on a spiritual level.”

Millennial slang wasn’t just a phase—it was a whole cultural vibe. These phrases weren’t just words; they were survival tools in the wild world of dating apps, group chats, and mid-2000s pop culture. While Gen Z might be busy inventing new ways to say “I’m tired of this,” we’ll always have on fleek brows, FOMO-filled weekends, and lit squad goals burned into our collective memory.

So if you’re still dropping the occasional “totes” or saying “I’m dead” during a Zoom call, don’t worry—you’re not out of touch. You’re just keeping the millennial flame alive. And honestly? That’s pretty savage.

Millennials are often characterized as being tech-savvy, socially conscious, and fashion-forward. Noah Miller, from the online shopping site onlineproducts.com explains: “Millennials grew up in a time of rapid technological advancement and globalization, which has had an influence on their fashion choices. As many millennials are tech-savvy, they have access to a wide range of fashion resources, such as online shopping, fashion blogs, and social media, which has made it easier for them to stay on trend and find inspiration for their personal style”.
In addition, many millennials place a high value on individuality and self-expression, which is reflected in their fashion choices. They are known for being open to trying new styles and trends and for mixing and matching different pieces to create unique and personal looks.
If you’re not a millennial but are looking to stay on trend and update your wardrobe, there are several fashion and style hacks that millennials can teach other generations.

1. Invest in quality basics: A solid foundation of classic, well-made pieces is key to any stylish wardrobe. Look for high-quality, neutral-colored staples like white T-shirts, blue jeans, and black pants that will stand the test of time and go with everything.
2. Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and patterns to create a unique and personal look. Experiment with layering and pairing unexpected items together to create interest and depth in your outfits.
3. Accessorize: Accessories can take an outfit from basic to chic in an instant. Experiment with statement jewelry, bold scarves, and trendy handbags to add some flair to your look.
4. Shop secondhand: Secondhand shopping is not only a budget-friendly option, but it’s also a sustainable choice that helps reduce waste. Look for high-quality, gently-used pieces at thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces.
5. Tailor your clothes: If you find a piece that you love but it doesn’t quite fit right, don’t be afraid to take it to a tailor. A good tailor can work wonders and help your clothes fit better, which will make you look and feel more confident.
6. Invest in good shoes: A good pair of shoes can take an outfit to the next level. Look for well-made, comfortable shoes that will stand the test of time.
   By following these fashion and style hacks, you can create a wardrobe that reflects your personal style and stays on trend. Remember to have fun and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things – fashion is all about self-expression and creativity. These tips can help people of any age stay fashionable and stylish, regardless of the generation they belong to.

As the world continues to debate the essence of what being a Millennial is, the Millennial generation, alternately known as ‘Generation Y’ or ‘Generation Net’, continues to confound those that study the demographic as they come into their own internationally.

Defined as those born between the early 80s to early 2000s, there have been many discussions and debates about the advantages of being a Millennial, and the perks associated with the group are considered to be quite substantial.

What are Millennials Known For?

Millennials are arguably the most technologically savvy of all demographic groups and are at the forefront of social media.

Embracing diversity is something that the Millennial generation is quite well-known for. This is due in large part to them also being the most diversified group across socioeconomic platforms, from same-sex marriage to intercultural and interracial unions. As a diverse generation, they are more prone to accepting differences and embracing them instead of shying away like their predecessors have been more prone to do.

They are one of the first generations that was raised with the adage that ‘impossible is nothing’ via teachers, family, and other adults in their lives. This no-nonsense approach has affected their overall behavior in tremendous ways, regarded as go-getters and free thinkers that are optimistic and determined to get what they want.

No matter the issue – from the environment to wellness, to healthcare, social consciousness, politics, and more, Millennials are known for stepping up and voicing their concerns to forge a new path that goes bolder than their parents’ and grandparents’ generations. The tendency to care more about those around them and the impact of their actions is a benefit that later generations will appreciate in the future.

Millennials consider themselves citizens of the world, so they are more likely to travel and feel comfortable any place around the globe. As global citizens, they care about helping the world not only in their own backyard, but across countries and time zones.

Their attitude of believing they can achieve anything is key to the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in this group, with fewer looking towards a standard 9-to-5 careers like their parents and many taking active part in the gig economy. They are more likely to work for start-ups and mid-sized companies than huge conglomerates. That’s one of the reasons many Millennials appear in the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

Everyone seems to have an opinion one way or another about Millennials, but there is one thing that can be agreed upon – they are eager to impact their lives and the world at large.

Generation Calculation