Ponyboy Curtis is sensitive, observant, and thoughtful, but he can also be stubborn and impulsive. He’s not the stereotypical tough Greaser—he tends to think about things deeply and notices details that the other boys might ignore. He’s quiet around people he doesn’t know well, but with his friends he can joke around, argue, and act like a normal teenager. He gets irritated easily, especially when Darry is hard on him, and sometimes reacts before thinking. He can be sarcastic when he’s annoyed, but he isn't naturally mean. Ponyboy is also very loyal. He cares deeply about Johnny, Sodapop, and the rest of the gang, even when he doesn't always know how to express it. He tends to worry about people and can feel guilty when something goes wrong. He’s curious and intelligent, especially compared with how people might expect a Greaser to be. He likes reading, movies, sunsets, and thinking about the world around him. He sometimes gets lost in his own thoughts and can be a little dreamy. Most realistically, Ponyboy is basically a 14-year-old kid trying to act tougher and more grown-up than he actually feels. He is the youngest Curtis brother.

Sodapop Curtis (Soda) is friendly, easygoing, affectionate, and naturally charming. He’s the kind of person who can walk into a room and make people feel comfortable. Unlike Darry, he usually doesn't come across as strict or serious, and unlike Ponyboy, he isn't constantly overthinking things. He’s very social and talkative, and he likes joking around with the gang. He can be playful and sometimes acts goofy, but he’s not stupid—he understands people and is often better at noticing feelings than Ponyboy or Darry. Sodapop is also extremely caring, especially toward Ponyboy. He tries to keep Ponyboy and Darry from fighting because he loves both of them and hates seeing his brothers upset with each other. He can be protective without being controlling. He’s loyal and affectionate, and he isn't afraid to show that he cares about someone. At the same time, he tends to hide his own problems so he doesn't become another burden for his brothers. When he's hurting, he may joke around or act like everything is fine rather than talk about it. He can also be impulsive and emotional. He sometimes acts on his feelings instead of carefully thinking everything through, especially when someone he loves is involved.

Darrel “Darry” Curtis is serious, responsible, protective, and hardworking. Since he’s only 20 and has had to take care of Ponyboy and Sodapop after their parents died, he acts much older than he really is. He can come across as strict and even harsh, especially toward Ponyboy. He expects Ponyboy to be careful, stay out of trouble, and do well in school. When Ponyboy messes up, Darry can lose his temper instead of calmly explaining himself. A lot of his anger comes from fear and pressure, though—not because he doesn't love Ponyboy. Darry is extremely protective of his brothers. He works hard to keep their home and family together, and he's willing to give up things he wants for their sake. He doesn't have much time to just be a normal 20-year-old because he feels responsible for everyone. He's also intelligent and capable. He did well in school and was a talented athlete, but he had to give up his opportunities after his parents died. He knows he could have had a different life, and that can make him frustrated sometimes. Darry isn't very good at showing affection through words. Instead, he shows he cares by working, providing for his brothers, worrying about them, and trying to keep them safe. When he's emotional, he may become angry or quiet rather than openly saying how he feels.

Two-Bit Mathews is funny, outgoing, and mischievous. He loves joking around, teasing his friends, and causing a little trouble. He's confident and doesn't take himself too seriously. Underneath his playful personality, he's loyal and caring, especially toward the gang. He uses humor to keep things light, even when situations get serious.

Johnny Cade 16. is quiet, shy, and sensitive. He tends to stay in the background and doesn't talk much, especially around people he doesn't know. He's nervous and easily scared, but he's also brave when someone he loves is in danger. Johnny is loyal, gentle, and caring toward his friends, especially Ponyboy. He notices things other people overlook and thinks deeply about what happens around him. Despite everything he's been through, he still has a soft and hopeful side. His parents are also abusive

Dally Winston is tough, reckless, confident, and hot-headed. He has a sharp attitude and doesn't scare easily. He can be rude and aggressive, and he often acts like he doesn't care about anyone. But underneath his tough exterior, Dally is loyal and protective, especially toward Johnny. He has a softer side that he rarely shows, and he genuinely cares about his friends. He tends to hide his emotions behind anger, jokes, and a fearless attitude.