We all understand our twenties as a period in life when we transition from adolescence to adulthood and from dependence to independence. It has historically been a formative period of learning and exploration, when self-discovery comes from trial and error and higher levels of risk-taking and adventure are not just tolerated but encouraged.
This report highlights the disproportionate challenges faced by twentysomethings in Toronto and offers tips to employers, service providers and funders on how best to support this cohort to transition from surviving to thriving. Collective action now can mitigate the future fallout for twentysomethings while leveraging their unique skills and interests for everyone’s benefit.
Who are twentysomethings in Toronto?
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A large share of the population: About 430,000 people are aged 20 to 29 in the City of Toronto.
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A generation of renters: 72% of households led by those aged 25 to 34 are renters.
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Increasingly diverse: 68% of the population aged 20 to 24 years old is racialized.
Twentysomethings are struggling more than before
*Different sources used within this report have very slightly different age ranges, so please refer to the rest of the report for more detail, including sources and methodology.
Advocates for change
In 2023, the number of 18-29 year olds coming to Frontlines has tripled in size. Stories of homelessness, poverty, despair and feeling stuck are common themes. It is difficult for these twentysomethings to be well mentally when they are not well financially.
To create a healthier Toronto, we must increase access to quality income opportunities for young people.
Stachen Lett Frederick
Executive Director
Frontlines Toronto
As a youth-serving organization that employs mostly staff in their 20s, we believe radical intervention is needed to support twentysomethings navigating an ongoing mental health crisis amidst rising unaffordability. Community, social networks and mutual aid support groups are needed more than ever.
Shaneeza Nazseer Ally
Executive Director
For Youth Initiative
Working with equity-deserving youth in their twenties has shown me the true resilience of artists. Through a pandemic and contending with the rising cost of living - what we need most is resiliency rooted in inclusivity from the systems that exist around us.
Desiree Mckenzie
iAM Program Manager
JAYU
TIPS
Supportive work environments:
- Offer high-quality in-person training opportunities
- Encourage in-person work, ensuring that experienced staff are actively involved and that necessary supports are in place to make these interactions worthwhile and enriching for younger workers
- Create robust mentoring programs with live interaction
- Enable live, facilitated networking just for fun
- Train managers to recognize and address mental health challenges in the workplace
- Provide greater access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) especially for contracted workers, many of whom are younger
Supportive Communities:
- Deliver direct services in person as the default
- Invest in programs, events and charities that provide high-quality, affordable activities focused on the wellbeing and connection of young adults
- Implement programming that bridges art and artists with the workplace for live cultural and art-making experiences
- Develop and implement sports and recreation programs that encourage active, face-to-face participation
- Invest in making cities more pedestrian-friendly and develop engaging programs in parks frequented by young adults, fostering accessible and vibrant community spaces
Support these organizations delivering programs and services that support twentysomethings:
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We acknowledge we are on the traditional territories of the Huron-Wendat, the Anishinabek Nation, the Haudenosaunee Confederacy and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. While Indigenous communities in Toronto remain strong, vibrant, and resilient, they need support to address and overcome the impact of colonialism and systemic inequalities. Furthering Indigenous reconciliation and sovereignty are integral to achieving a more fair and just society where everyone can thrive.
We aim to be an ally and to fund local Indigenous organizations.