Islamabad (The COW News Digital)Rising inflation and stagnant incomes are making it increasingly difficult for young Pakistanis to achieve traditional financial milestones, including purchasing their own homes and cars, according to renowned fashion designer Parysah Adnan.
Speaking during a podcast, Adnan challenged the growing perception that younger generations are financially irresponsible or unwilling to invest in property. She argued that the economic realities facing today’s youth are significantly different from those experienced by previous generations.
Adnan, daughter of prominent fashion designer Amir Adnan, explained that during her father’s generation, earning enough money to purchase a car within a year was considered achievable. Similarly, individuals could save a few months’ income to arrange an advance payment for a house.
However, she said the situation has changed dramatically, with rising living costs and relatively low salaries making such financial goals increasingly unrealistic for younger people.
According to Adnan, many young professionals in Pakistan earn between Rs60,000 and Rs80,000 per month. With housing prices, vehicle costs, utility bills and everyday expenses continuing to rise, saving enough money to purchase a property or a car has become an enormous challenge.
She emphasized that living in rented accommodation should not automatically be interpreted as a lack of ambition or interest in property ownership. Instead, it often reflects the financial limitations faced by young people who struggle to meet their basic expenses.
Adnan also raised concerns about employers who allegedly fail to comply with minimum wage regulations, further worsening the financial difficulties of the younger workforce. She suggested that inadequate compensation and increasing economic pressures leave many employees with little opportunity to build savings or secure long-term financial stability.
Discussing generational differences, the fashion designer observed that millennials often face continuous pressure to work and remain professionally productive. In contrast, Generation Z appears more conscious of the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.
She suggested that younger people are increasingly questioning traditional expectations surrounding work, success and financial achievement, particularly when economic conditions make those expectations difficult to fulfil.
Adnan also expressed concern over the shortage and affordability of essential facilities in Pakistan. She highlighted access to food, housing, clean water, gas and electricity as fundamental challenges affecting people’s daily lives.
According to her, the persistent struggle to secure these basic necessities is contributing to growing psychological stress, frustration and anxiety across society.
She further noted that economic uncertainty and difficulties in accessing essential services can influence people’s behaviour, patience and ability to deal with everyday challenges.
The designer stressed that ensuring access to basic necessities and improving living standards are essential steps towards reducing social anxiety and economic frustration.
Her remarks have brought renewed attention to the financial challenges confronting Pakistan’s younger generation, particularly the widening gap between income levels and the cost of living.
As inflation continues to put pressure on household budgets, homeownership and car ownership are increasingly becoming distant ambitions for many young professionals. Adnan’s comments highlight the need for better employment opportunities, fair wages and economic conditions that allow young people to achieve financial independence.
