Have you ever noticed how some boomer habits are making a serious comeback with millennials? It’s happening right now, and you’d be surprised at how these old-school practices are being updated for today’s world.
For instance, the 2025 Transamerica Retirement Survey reveals that 60% of millennials are now contributing to employer-sponsored retirement plans like 401(k)s—just like their parents did. It’s like they’re taking a cue from the past, but with a modern twist.
And when it comes to home-cooked meals, 69% of adults have sit-down dinners at home regularly, with millennials leading the way. Ready to explore 12 boomer habits that millennials are bringing back? Here is a closer look at how these trends are reshaping today’s lifestyle.
DIY home projects
Remember when everything was a DIY project in the ’70s and ’80s? Well, millennials have revived that habit! Today’s DIY home projects are everywhere—on Pinterest, Instagram, and beyond.
Creating your own furniture or tackling home renovations, millennials are proving that you don’t always need a contractor to make your home shine. Who needs expensive services when a little elbow grease (and a YouTube tutorial) can do wonders?
Writing physical letters
No, really. Millennials are bringing back handwritten letters. Texting and emails have dominated, but there’s something nostalgic and meaningful about sending a good old-fashioned letter.
Boomers got the ball rolling, and now millennials are adding their personal touch to the mix. Sending birthday cards and writing thank-you notes—this simple habit is clearly alive and well. I mean, who doesn’t love receiving a handwritten letter in the mail these days? 🙂
Gardening and growing their own food
Boomers were all about their garden plots, and millennials are taking the same green-thumb approach. With more interest in sustainability and food security, growing your own vegetables is making a huge comeback.
Trendy urban gardens and windowsill herbs—millennials are cultivating crops just like their parents did. And hey, it’s a stylish nod to eco-conscious living.
Cooking from scratch
Forget fast food or store-bought meals—millennials are dusting off the cookbooks and learning to cook like it’s 1975. Just like the boomers did, they’re embracing homemade meals with a renewed passion.
Mastering sourdough and crafting homemade jams—millennials are rediscovering the joy of preparing food from scratch. Ever thought of trying a full-fledged home-cooked meal instead of just ordering delivery? Trust me, it’s way more satisfying!
Polaroid photography
Those iconic Polaroid pictures that boomers used to snap at family gatherings? Well, millennials are dusting off those cameras and turning film photography into a hip trend again.
It’s not just about nostalgia; there’s something special about holding a physical photo in your hand and watching it develop in real time. Is it slower? Sure. But it’s also way more fun, and hey, who doesn’t want to add a little retro charm to their Insta feed?
Thrift shopping
Boomers were no strangers to second-hand treasures, and today, millennials are carrying on that tradition with pride. Thrift shopping has become a stylish and eco-conscious way to find unique clothes and furniture.
With vintage and sustainable fashion on the rise, millennials have adopted thrifting not just as a necessity, but as a terrific way to score one-of-a-kind items. Plus, you’re saving the planet while you shop—how awesome is that?
Carpooling and ride shares
Boomers often carpooled to work, but millennials have modernized the habit with apps like Uber and Lyft. In an effort to save on gas and reduce their carbon footprint, millennials have made ride-sharing a go-to.
And just like boomers did with carpools, it’s a chance to chat, make new friends, or just enjoy the ride. Ever skipped the drive and opted for an Uber instead? It’s surprisingly convenient.
Watching the news on TV
Who remembers those TV news anchors boomers used to tune into every evening? Well, millennials are still watching the news—just in a slightly different format. With the rise of streaming services and digital platforms, many now access major networks’ nightly broadcasts online rather than through traditional cable.
Sure, social media delivers instant updates, but there’s still something comforting and familiar about sitting down to watch the news at night—even if it’s on a phone, tablet, or smart TV.
Listening to vinyl records
Millennials are rediscovering the crackly, warm sound of vinyl records. This once old-school hobby has found a new generation of enthusiasts, as millennials flock to record stores and dig through crates of classic albums.
Streaming services dominate, but there’s a special kind of magic in putting a needle on a vinyl record and letting it spin. It’s like hitting rewind on the past while enjoying the music of today!
Hosting dinner parties
Modern parties often revolve around bars or nightclubs, but millennials have been reviving the art of the dinner party—just like the boomers did. Cooking a homemade meal, inviting close friends over, and enjoying quality conversation are making a comeback.
Gone are the days of simply grabbing drinks at a crowded pub—now it’s about the intimate gatherings where you can enjoy good food and even better company. Who doesn’t love a cozy night with friends and a home-cooked feast?
Physical fitness routines
Boomers were big on staying active, whether it was through jogging, aerobics, or playing sports. Today’s millennials have adopted many of these fitness routines, but with a modern twist. Running marathons, taking yoga classes—fitness has become a lifestyle.
But it’s not all about gym memberships—getting outdoors and staying active with activities like hiking or cycling is also a millennial favorite. Fitness, it seems, is truly timeless.
Enjoying simple pleasures
Lastly, millennials have been learning to appreciate the simple joys in life, much like their boomer counterparts did. Spending a lazy Sunday with a book, strolling through the park, or savoring a quiet cup of coffee—absolute relaxation is making a comeback.
In a world filled with distractions, it’s refreshing to see millennials reconnecting with moments of simplicity and calm. Sometimes, the best thing is just to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
Disclosure: This article was developed with the assistance of AI and was subsequently reviewed, revised, and approved by our editorial team.
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