Generations Explained: Are You a Baby Boomer or Gen X?

In this guide, we’ll explore the major generational demographic groups from the Silent Generation through to Generation Alpha. After reading you'll have a clearer understanding of the characteristics, values, and behaviours that shape each generation.

Here's what we'll cover:

• What are generations?
• Silent Generation
• Baby Boomers
• Generation X
• Millennials
• Generation Z
• Generation Alpha

What are Generations?

A generation refers to a group of people born within a similar timeframe - often spanning around 15 to 20 years - who are considered to form a shared demographic cohort. These groups are typically defined by birth year, and tend to exhibit distinct patterns in population size, educational access, family structure, and social roles.

It’s more than the birth year that binds each generation, though. The set of cultural, political, and technological events they experience during their formative years goes a long way to shape generational identity, impacting everything from worldviews and values to communication styles and consumer behaviours.

And while generations aren’t set in stone, as they vary by source, sociologists and demographers tend to agree on a loose timeline and see value in the groupings. While cultural context and geography can create subtle variations, the key generations in the UK and much of the Western world include the Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, Generation Z, and Generation Alpha.

Understanding the years in generations - and the factors that helped to shape them - can lead to a better understanding of common generational behaviours and expectations.

Silent Generation (Born 1928–1945)

The Silent Generation grew up during a time of global upheaval: the Great Depression, World War II, and the early Cold War era. Their formative years were marked by austerity, discipline, and a strong sense of duty. Many were raised in households where frugality and resilience were not just virtues but necessities, and these values have remained throughout their lives. As a result, this generation often embodies a quiet strength and an unwavering sense of responsibility.

Key traits:

• Resilient, stoic, and responsible
• Preference for stability and tradition
• Cautious with money
• Strong work ethic, often with lifelong careers

Values and behaviours: the Silent Generation values formality, respect for authority, and a quiet pride in their accomplishments. They're less likely to seek the spotlight and often favour modesty and discretion. Loyalty, whether to employers, institutions, or family, is paramount.

How to engage them: clarity, consistency, and respect matter. Whether providing information or services, tone should be polite and considered. Many prefer in-person or written communication to digital formats. Patience and professionalism go a long way.

Baby Boomers (Born 1946–1964)

The Baby Boomers were born into an era defined by post-war optimism, rapid economic growth, and an expanding middle class. Their childhoods were shaped by relative prosperity, suburban expansion, and a widespread belief in progress, while their adolescence and early adulthood were framed by dramatic cultural and political shifts. From the Beatles to the civil rights movement, this generation experienced - and were often at the forefront of - significant social transformation. As a result, Boomers are often seen as confident, idealistic, and willing to challenge the status quo when necessary.

Key traits:

• Optimistic and ambitious
• Independent and resourceful
• Strong sense of identity
• Defined by work and achievement

Values and behaviours: Boomers tend to value self-sufficiency and accomplishment. Many are using their later years to redefine expectations around “retirement”, staying active in business, politics, and community life well into their 60s and 70s. They grew up with television and print media, so they respond well to storytelling and reputation.

Engagement tips: Boomers value expertise, credibility, and personal service. They appreciate clarity, but in-depth content also resonates. They’re digitally capable – leaning towards tablets and desktop over phones - but often appreciate traditional media and personal interaction.

Generation X (Born 1965–1980)

Sometimes called the "middle child" generation, Generation X grew up during a time of political shifts, economic uncertainty, and the arrival of personal computing. This cohort witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall, the rise of dual-income households, and the transition from analogue to digital technologies. They tend to be pragmatic, resourceful, and sceptical of authority, often balancing tradition with innovation as they have navigated adulthood and leadership roles today.

Key traits:

• Self-reliant and adaptable
• Value work-life balance
• Tech-savvy but not tech-dependent
• Comfortable with ambiguity

Values and behaviours: Gen X often prioritises flexibility and autonomy. Many learned to look after themselves early, making them resourceful, loyal when earned, and valuing efficiency. They bridged the analogue and digital divide and are often the digital backbone of today’s workforce.

Engagement tips: Respect their time. Gen Xers respond well to practical, solution-oriented messaging. Authenticity is crucial, as anything overly promotional or vague tends to be met with cynicism.

Millennials (Born 1981–1996)

Millennials – also called Generation Y, but much less frequently - came of age during the rise of the internet, globalisation, and widespread social and political change. They witnessed the transition from dial-up to smartphones, from analogue to streaming, and as a result shaped their expectations around convenience and connection. They’re often characterised as tech-savvy, purpose-driven, and collaborative, and many place a strong emphasis on equality, sustainability, and mental health awareness. Having navigated major economic events like the 2008 financial crisis during their early careers, they tend to value stability alongside meaning and flexibility in both work and life.

Key traits:

• Digital natives
• Socially conscious
• Team-oriented and optimistic
• Prefer experiences over possessions

Values and behaviours: Millennials tend to seek meaning in both work and personal life. They value diversity, flexibility, and brands that align with their ethics. Many are balancing young families, careers, and financial pressures including student loans and housing challenges.

Engagement tips: transparency and values matter. Millennials respond well to digital content, especially video, interactive tools, and social media. They appreciate dialogue and inclusivity and respond well to acknowledgement that they may not have it as easy as people in earlier generations might initially believe.

Generation Z (Born 1997–2012)

Generation Z has grown up in a hyper-connected, fast-changing world, where information flows instantly and communication is increasingly visual and global. They’re the first generation raised entirely in the digital age, and most have never known life without smartphones, social media, or on-demand content. With exposure to global issues from a young age and the ability to engage with them in real time, Gen Z has developed a reputation for activism, innovation, and a pragmatic view of the future.

Key traits:

• Realistic and socially aware
• Entrepreneurial
• Visually driven (think TikTok, Instagram)
• Digital multitaskers

Values and behaviours: Gen Z values individual expression and fluid identities. They're diverse, globally minded, and deeply aware of the challenges facing the world, from climate change to mental health. They're less loyal to brands and more focused on purpose and representation.

Engagement tips: short and direct engagement works best – don’t be afraid to pick up a smartphone and start a video call! They have strong filters for insincerity, meaning authenticity and community interaction are well received.

Generation Alpha (Born 2013–Present)

Still in childhood, Generation Alpha is the first cohort born entirely in the 21st century. Their earliest memories are shaped by technologies such as voice assistants, AI-powered tools, and smart homes, all of which are seamlessly integrated into everyday life. They're growing up in a media-rich, on-demand environment where entertainment, learning, and communication are increasingly visual and interactive. Alongside these technological shifts, they are also witnessing widespread global conversations around climate change, diversity, and mental health, which are likely to shape their developing values and expectations in profound ways.

Key traits:

• Tech-integrated from birth
• Projected to be highly educated
• Environmentally aware
• Visual and interactive learners

Values and behaviours: it’s still early, but Generation Alpha already show signs of being both highly adaptable and highly influenced by the media and tech ecosystems around them. They’re more likely to be only children or part of smaller families and to engage with the world through screen-based environments.

Their future preferences will likely be shaped by immersive technology, shifting education models, and global challenges that will make adaptability and empathy more valuable than ever.

Auriens: Later Living for Silent Generation and Baby Boomers

At Auriens, we understand the values that shaped our residents’ lives. That’s why our later living model is designed around what matters most: independence, refinement, and ease.

Our Chelsea residence offers the perfect blend of privacy and community: residents enjoy beautiful , supported by concierge service, health and wellbeing partners, and a suite of five-star amenities including a spa, cinema, bar, restaurant, and landscaped gardens.

Whether you’re exploring downsizing or looking for a secure and stimulating environment to begin your next chapter, Auriens offers a lifestyle that respects the rhythm, dignity, and individuality of the generations it was designed for.

Learn more about how Auriens works or explore our Chelsea location and purchase or rental options to start your journey.