Are we ... worse off ? Think that comes down to the individuals, and what they want, and or, if the try to achieve their goals. I simply wanted to retire early. Myself, I've never been better off. Partly because I changed locations, TH for USA ... BUT ... had I stayed in USA, without even continuing to work, my income would have increased, rental property, would have increased higher than inflation, along with the equity being the same investments, 3-4-5 fold, since 2000, when I retired. Some folks do something, some folks care not to do anything. Live with your choices, don't complain about your failures. Haves & have nots = earners & non earners. Choice has always been yours.