Research from Aviva found that young adults in the UK were the most driven and confident when it came to managing finances.
Over half of 25 to 34-year-olds said providing for family and financial independence were their main reasons for planning finances.
85% of 25 to 34-year-olds said they felt confident about hitting their financial goals, compared to 59% in other age groups.
Two thirds of this group reviewed or adjusted their financial goals monthly or more, while 49% of all adults said the same.
37% followed strict budgets and tracked every expense, compared to 28% overall.
Only 5% of 25 to 34-year-olds said they rarely or never reviewed their goals, while this was reported by 19% of the total group.
Half of people in this age group transferred money into savings each month, 39% used budgeting apps, and 31% discussed goals with friends.
Three in 10 who had financial habits said setting clear, achievable goals helped them stick to better routines.
Michele Golunska, managing director, wealth and advice at Aviva, said: “It’s encouraging to see such strong engagement with financial planning across the UK, especially among younger adults.
“The 25–34-year-old age group is clearly motivated by a desire to support their families and gain financial independence.
“They’re not only setting goals but actively reviewing them, using digital tools and peer support groups to stay on track.
“These habits all help to lay the foundation for their long-term financial wellbeing.”
53% of 25 to 34-year-olds said confidence influenced their investment decisions, followed by excitement at 43% and hope at 41%.
Across all ages, the main barriers to investing were fear of loss (29%), lack of knowledge (22%) and feeling overwhelmed (12%).
Dr. Eliza Filby, historian and expert on generational change, said: “This generation has grown up in the shadow of economic instability – from the 2008 financial crisis through Covid and the cost-of-living challenges of today.
“As a result, they’ve become financially pragmatic and digitally confident.
“Their motivations are deeply personal: family support, independence, and emotional drivers like confidence and hope.”
Filby added: “They’re not just reacting to financial pressures – they’re actively reshaping how they think about money and their futures.”
