My parents worked 7 days a week while supporting 4 children. They never took a vacation and didn't know the word "luxury". I on the other hand work 35 hour weeks and am paid overtime if I do more with 4-5 weeks vacation a year in which I travel. Even if I keep my current job, I'll still have earned significantly more than they have ever dreamed of earning.
Yes there are some sectors that are not doing well but overall, I never had to go through the same **** they had to.
The only difference is buying a house is much more difficult now than it was in their time.