The Bay Area’s sky-high living costs are forcing young residents to make heart-wrenching choices about their futures. A recent survey reveals the stark reality facing Millennials and Gen Z in one of America’s most expensive regions.

Couples like Myles Hannan and Linsey Dinh are putting major life milestones on hold. Despite earning a combined $120,000 annually, they’ve delayed their wedding and are pushing off having children. “Children are definitely on the back burner,” Hannan explains. “We pretty much just cannot afford another person”.

The Joint Venture Silicon Valley poll paints a grim picture: nearly a third of respondents have delayed starting a family due to financial pressures. Even more alarming, 44% have skipped or postponed medical care because of prohibitive costs.

Young professionals are getting creative to survive. One in four has taken on gig work like driving for rideshare services, while one in three has moved in with roommates or relatives. People are making significant life sacrifices just to remain in the Bay Area.

The economic strain touches every demographic. From teachers struggling with mounting expenses to tech workers feeling the pinch, no one is immune. Inflation and rising costs in groceries, housing, and utilities are squeezing residents from all angles.

Russell Hancock, Joint Venture Silicon Valley’s CEO, summarizes the situation bluntly: “We’re talking about people making major life decisions that impact the quality of life we lead”.

Despite these challenges, many remain committed to the Bay Area. The region’s unique culture, opportunities, and sense of community continue to draw and retain young talent, even as residents fight daily financial battles.

For now, young Bay Area residents are adapting, resilient in their determination to build lives in a region that simultaneously challenges and inspires them.