Gen-Z Adults View Gym, Streaming, and Skincare as ‘Essential’ Bills, Survey Finds

A new survey has found that many young adults now regard gym memberships, skincare treatments, and streaming services as essential monthly expenses.

Research by Intuit Credit Karma, based on a OnePoll survey of 2,000 UK adults in March, revealed that 27% of 18-24-year-olds view gym memberships as essential bills. A quarter (25%) said the same about streaming services, while skincare and beauty treatments were deemed essential by 22% of respondents in this age group.

Socialising was cited as a necessary cost by 30% of young adults surveyed.

The findings suggest a shift in the perception of basic living costs, with growing emphasis on physical health, appearance, and emotional wellbeing alongside traditional expenses like utilities and groceries.

Akansha Nath, general manager (international) at Intuit Credit Karma, said: “Gen-Z is redefining the meaning of essential spending, ensuring their emotional and physical health, and social needs are met too. However, this shift comes with financial trade-offs, with some adults taking on debt to maintain their lifestyle.”

Across all age groups surveyed, one in four (24%) said investing in mental wellbeing is just as important as paying for food and housing. Among 25-34-year-olds, nearly four in 10 (39%) said spending on physical health was a non-negotiable expense.

However, 14% of adults admitted they would rather cut long-term savings than sacrifice lifestyle spending.