Gen Z Are Not Boring, They Are Just Poor

Yyoung people just aren’t going out like they used to.

But instead of assuming Gen Z are all sitting at home being boring, new research from the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has shed some light on what’s really happening.

The NTIA commissioned Obsurvant to speak to 2,001 people aged 18-30 across the UK to find out why fewer young people are hitting the clubs.

Turns out, 68% of those surveyed said they’re staying in more because, quite frankly, the economy is rough right now. More than half (53%) admitted they’re spending less on nights out than this time last year.

The stats don’t lie: 61% said they’re simply going out less often, and only 16% admitted they’re heading out more after 10pm.

But it’s not just about money — there’s genuine concern around safety too. Over a third said they feel anxious, unsafe, or uneasy going out at night. Nearly 70% said they’d feel more comfortable staying out later if public transport was better.

Worryingly, over half don’t trust the government to sort these problems out.

The NTIA is now calling on the government to step up. They’re asking for practical changes like better street lighting, safer and cheaper late-night transport options, extended public transport hours, and more security measures to help young people feel safe enough to enjoy a night out.

Michael Kill, CEO of NTIA, summed it up perfectly: “This research backs up what we’ve been saying for ages—young people aren’t boring; they’re priced out and concerned about safety. The night-time economy is a massive cultural and economic asset, and we can’t afford to let a whole generation disengage because of systemic issues. We urgently need investment in safer streets, better transport, increased night-time policing, and financial backing for venues. Let’s keep nightlife vibrant, accessible, and safe for everyone.”