Zoomers are consciously choosing to be introverts: friendship comes at a high cost

In today’s world, “zoomers”—the generation born roughly between 1997 and 2012—are increasingly choosing solitude, and this is no coincidence. Experts note that for many, friendship and an active social life are becoming financially unfeasible. Meeting up with friends more than once a week is becoming a luxury that not everyone can afford. Zoomers seem to have invented a new form of asceticism, where consciously limiting social contact becomes not only a lifestyle but also a way to save money.

Friendship as an Expense

For Zoomers, friendship isn’t just an emotional connection—it also involves very specific expenses. To meet up with friends, you have to overcome a number of financial hurdles: pay for transportation to a café, movie theater, or other venue; cover the cost of food, drinks, or tickets; and then pay for the trip home. Even a single outing like this can cost an amount that puts a significant dent in many people’s budgets.

“I did the math: if I meet up with friends at a café, it costs at least 1,500 rubles each time,” says Maxim, a 22-year-old student. “If I do that every week, it comes out to almost as much as my internet and utility bills for the month. It’s easier to chat on a messaging app or play games together online.”

Economic realities dictate their own terms. Rising costs for transportation, food, and entertainment are forcing Zoomers to rethink how and with whom they spend their time. По данным социологических исследований, более 60% молодых людей в возрасте от 18 до 25 лет отмечают, что сократили количество встреч с друзьями из-за финансовых ограничений.

A New Form of Asceticism: Fewer Meetings, More Mindfulness

Zumers don't just reduce their social interactions—they do so deliberately, developing a kind of philosophy of new asceticism. Instead of loud parties and trips to cafes, they opt for more budget-friendly alternatives: online games, video calls, watching movies together on streaming platforms, or even walks in the park, where they don't have to spend any money.

“I like spending time at home,” says Arturas, a 19-year-old graphic designer. “I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything if I don’t go to cafes. My friends and I chat on Discord, share memes, and watch TV shows. It’s not only cheaper, but also somehow cozier.”

This approach reflects not only economic necessity but also a shift in values. Zumers increasingly value time spent alone or with their closest friends and family, where they don’t have to spend money to feel connected. It’s a kind of protest against consumer society, where the value of social interaction is measured not by the number of gatherings, but by their quality.

On the one hand, a reduction in face-to-face interactions can lead to increased social isolation. Psychologists warn that a prolonged lack of in-person interaction can have a negative impact on mental health. However, Zoomers are finding ways to compensate for this by using technology. Social media, messaging apps, and online games allow people to stay connected without having to be physically present.

On the other hand, this new form of asceticism teaches Zoomers financial discipline and mindfulness. They’re learning to value their resources—not just money, but also time, energy, and emotions. “I realized that I don’t need to go out with someone every weekend to be happy,” says Ilya, a 24-year-old programmer. “Sometimes, just one good conversation a month is enough to feel like you have friends.”

Zumers are redefining the concept of friendship as they adapt to economic realities. Their choice to embrace solitude and digital communication is not merely a necessity, but a new perspective on life. The Zumers’ asceticism isn’t about giving up joy, but about finding a balance between financial freedom and emotional connection. Perhaps this generation will show us how to be happy without overspending.