Smartest Generation Ranked—Does Yours Make the Cut?
When it comes to intelligence, every generation has its strengths and unique traits that reflect the times they grew up in. From problem-solving skills to tech-savviness, each generation offers something valuable. But which one truly stands out as the smartest? And does intelligence relate to financial insight and generational wealth?
What Makes a Generation “Smart”?
Before we rank the generations, let’s explore what we mean by “smart.” Intelligence can be hard to measure, as it’s influenced by many factors, such as educational access, exposure to technology, and adaptability to new challenges. Traditional measures of intelligence, like IQ, don’t capture everything—critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and tech skills are all essential too. In our rankings, we’ll take these modern measures of intelligence into account.
Ranking the Generations from Smartest to Least Smart
1. Generation Z (Born 1997–2012)
Known for being digital natives, Generation Z is exceptionally quick to adapt to new technology. This generation grew up with smartphones, high-speed internet, and social media, making them highly skilled at finding and processing information fast. Gen Zers are often self-directed learners, leveraging free online resources for self-education. However, they may face challenges in building generational wealth if they don’t learn to manage money wisely amid rising student loan debt and inflation.
2. Millennials (Born 1981–1996)
Millennials are highly adaptable, tech-savvy, and entrepreneurial, having grown up during rapid technological advancement. They are known for innovation and seeking purpose-driven careers. Many millennials are investing in experiences over traditional assets, but some are also taking steps toward building generational wealth through smart investments and side businesses. Millennials have weathered several economic downturns, which has sharpened their problem-solving skills and financial resilience.
3. Generation X (Born 1965–1980)
Often called the “forgotten generation,” Gen Xers grew up in a time of increasing access to higher education and personal computing. They are known for their independence, resourcefulness, and practicality. Many Gen Xers have been instrumental in pioneering new industries, especially in technology and finance. They have significant contributions to generational wealth, as they tend to value financial stability and asset-building, making them some of the savviest investors.
4. Baby Boomers (Born 1946–1964)
The Baby Boomers are known for their work ethic and loyalty to their jobs. While they may not have had the technological advantage of later generations, they were pioneers in the corporate world and have accumulated a significant share of national wealth. Baby Boomers have focused on real estate, stocks, and retirement savings, making them leaders in generational wealth. However, their slower adaptation to technology may place them behind younger generations in terms of overall adaptability.
5. The Silent Generation (Born 1928–1945)
The Silent Generation grew up during times of hardship, such as the Great Depression and World War II. Their values include hard work, loyalty, and thriftiness. While they may lack the tech skills of younger generations, their experience with financial stability and savings practices offers valuable insights for how to build generational wealth. However, their focus on traditional wealth-building methods, like pensions and homeownership, places them in a more conservative category of intelligence.
Intelligence and Generational Wealth: Are They Related?
While intelligence doesn’t guarantee generational wealth, smart financial habits and adaptability do. As each generation continues to adapt, new opportunities for wealth building emerge, from stock investments to digital assets.
Teach them young! This MAMF Board Game will train and teach them how to be millionaires with different jobs and life choices coming their way.
Final Thoughts
Every generation has its own type of intelligence, influenced by the unique challenges and innovations of their time. Whether it’s tech-savvy Gen Z or investment-oriented Baby Boomers, intelligence in one form or another drives how generations achieve success and, ultimately, create generational wealth. Does your generation make the cut? It might just depend on how you leverage your unique strengths for the future.
If you’re still relying on just one source of income, GET YOUR PASSIVE INCOME GUIDE HERE, it includes all the steps and nearly 80 different types of passive income ideas that can be used by everyone—from kids to retirees—making it perfect for the entire family!
SERIOUS ABOUT BUILDING YOUR WEALTH? 💰 Get My Entire Portfolio for Creating Millionaires – The Ultimate Wealth Builder’s Self-Paced Beginner’s Bundle!
I’ll be right there with you, guiding you every step of the way as you create your wealth. This bundle includes only proven strategies that work, with no fluff or guesswork—just a clear path to success. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this is your chance to build the life you’ve always wanted. No gimmicks, just real results. Let’s do this together!
