Why Younger Canadians Feel Poorer — Even as Incomes Rise?
Because their earnings have less power to buy assets like homes.
Median Disposable Income of Canadians (1990–2023)
- 📈 Adjusted by CPI: Income has increased
- 📉 Measured in gold or share of a home: Income has decreased
Many assume that money’s depreciation is fully captured by CPI — but it’s far more complex.
CPI reflects the cost of consumer goods, not assets. When income is measured against asset prices, the real devaluation of money becomes clear.
In simple terms, younger generations may afford more consumer goods like milk or meat, but they have far less purchasing power when it comes to assets — the foundation of social status and financial security against future turbulence.
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