Gen Z constitutes approximately 27% of the global population, totaling around 2 billion individuals worldwide.
63% of Gen Z individuals prefer a hybrid work environment, indicating a desire for flexibility in their professional lives.
43% of financially underconfident Gen Zs look for a second job.
What is so unique about Gen Z?
Gen Z commits to bringing diversity and inclusion more than any other generation with over 60% of Gen Zs believing diversity is essential for society.
What image do you have of Gen Z? -Maybe cool, carefree attitude, glued to tech?!!
But how much of that is true? Let’s find out!
Unveil the mysteries of Gen Z and explore our rich statistics to understand their unique traits, aspirations, and influence on culture and commerce.
Top Gen Z Statistics: Editor’s Pick
- The US is home to about 68.6 million Gen Zs, i.e., about 20% of the total US population. [1]
- 38% of Gen Zs are working either part-time or full-time. [3]
- Instagram is the #1 top social media platform for Gen Zs worldwide. [3]
- 76% of Gen Zs use Instagram to post or share content compared to just 45% who use TikTok to do the same. [3]
- 63% said they would prefer a hybrid work environment, while 12% want to work 100% remotely. [7]
- 18% of Gen Z reported having an anxiety disorder. [5]
- 23% reported being diagnosed with depression– the highest among all generations! [5]
- 42% of Gen Zs admitted feeling, “down, hopeless, or depressed”. [4]
- While only 23% of the older generation reported feeling “down, hopeless, or depressed”. [5]
What is Generation Z?
Generation Z, often called Gen Z, encompasses individuals born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. They’re the first generation to grow up fully immersed in the digital age, with technology as a core aspect of their lives.
Currently, Gen Z constitutes about 27% of the global population, roughly 2 billion people worldwide. [9] They’re known for their tech-savviness, having been raised with smartphones and social media.
Gen Z Demographics
According to the latest census, the US is home to about 68.6 million Gen Zs, i.e., about 20% of the total US population. [1]
Gen Z is predicted to become American majority non-white by 2026. [2]
According to Pew research, 48% of Gen Zers belong to racial and ethnic minorities. [9]
51% of Gen Zs are college students. [3]
38% of Gen Zs are working either part-time or full-time. [3]
Only 11% of Gen Zs are married or have children. [3]
Social Media Statistics For Gen Z
Gen Z grew up with social media. It won’t be wrong to say they are the social media generation.
- Instagram is the #1 top social media platform for Gen Zs worldwide. [3]
- About 2 in 3 Gen Zs (64%) use Instagram at least once per day. [3]
- The next popular platform among Gen Zs is WhatsApp with 59% using it daily. [3]
- Facebook is the third most used social media platform with 45% using it regularly. [3]
Wondering where TikTok stands?
TikTok and Instagram are close competitors.
76% of Gen Zs use Instagram to post or share content compared to just 45% who use TikTok to do the same. [3]
81% of Gen Zs use TikTok to find funny or entertaining content, compared to 67% seeking entertainment on Instagram. [3]
Over one-third of social media influencers are Gen Zs. [6]
Do you know Gen Zs are the most in-demand and highest-paid influencers?
It is interesting to note that Gen Zs are 34% more likely to follow their favorite brand than any influencer. [6]
Is Gen Z Embracing Diversity?
YES!!
Gen Z is considered the most ethnically diverse generation.
Gen Zs are strictly against discrimination and are determined to increase diversity in society, more than any other generation.
About 62% of Gen Zers believe that bringing diversity is good for society.
Major Social Issues & Concerns Gen Z
Despite popular opinion that Gen Zs are carefree, they are concerned about social and environmental issues.
- 44% of Gen Zs admitted that climate change is their biggest fear. [3]
- 43% of Gen Zs are concerned about racism.
- 41% of Gen Zs are concerned about gun violence.
- 40% of Gen Zs are scared of police brutality.
- 38% about pollution.
Gen Zs are politically active too. 36% of Gen Zs somehow engaged in political activism and protests in 2020. [8]
55% of Gen Zs admitted that they are “extremely interested” in environmental issues. [8]
Gen Z Earning & Spending Statistics
30% of Gen Zs do not feel financially secure. [7]
46% of Gen Zs reported living on paychecks. [7]
43% of financially underconfident Gen Zs look for a second job. [7]
When asked ‘Do you believe life will get better for future generations?’, the answers were:
- 43% of Gen Zs said, ‘Yes, future generations would have a better life.’
- 32% of Gen Zs said, ‘No, life will get worse for future generations.’
- 25% of Gen Zs said, ‘Life would be the same.’
Gen Z Workplace Statistics
40% of Gen Zs said they would like to leave their jobs in the next two years, compared to 24% of Millennials. [7]
When choosing an employer, Gen Z’s top priority is work-life balance. [7]
Gen Zs also prioritize learning and development opportunities (29%), high salaries (24%), positive workplace culture (23%), and career advancement opportunities (23%). [7]
52% also said they’re not happy with their employers’ efforts to create a diverse and inclusive work environment. [7]
63% said they would prefer a hybrid work environment, while 12% want to work 100% remotely. [7]
Gen Z Mental Health Statistics
As mental health is no longer a taboo, Gen Z is very concerned about their mental health.
18% of Gen Z reported having an anxiety disorder. [5]
23% reported being diagnosed with depression– the highest among all generations! [5]
About 3 in 5 Gen Zs reported feeling “nervous, anxious, or on edge” in recent times. [4]
42% of Gen Zs admitted feeling, “down, hopeless, or depressed”. [4]
While only 23% of the older generation reported feeling “down, hopeless, or depressed”. [5]
Gen Z is suffering from more mental health issues than any other generation and is also more likely to receive therapy or mental health treatment. [6]
- 37% of Gen Zs have received treatment for mental health issues. [6]
- 35% of millennials sought treatment for their mental health issues.
- Only 26% of Gen Xers received mental health treatment.
- Baby boomers reported the least mental health issues and hence only 22% agreed to treat mental health issues.
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FAQs
What are Gen Z’s preferences in social media?
Instagram ranks as the top social media platform for Gen Z, followed closely by WhatsApp and Facebook. TikTok is gaining popularity, especially for entertainment content.
What are the major concerns and interests of Gen Z?
Gen Z is deeply concerned about social and environmental issues such as climate change, racism, gun violence, and pollution. They are politically active and prioritize diversity and inclusivity in society.
How does Gen Z approach education and career choices?
Gen Z places a high value on education and is keenly aware of the importance of acquiring relevant skills and knowledge for the future job market. They are entrepreneurial-minded and are more likely to pursue non-traditional career paths, such as freelancing, remote work, and gig economy opportunities.
Flexibility, autonomy, and purpose-driven work are essential considerations for Gen Z when making career choices.
What are the consumption habits and preferences of Gen Z?
Gen Z is known for its preference for authentic, personalized experiences and products. They are discerning consumers who prioritize brands that align with their values, offer transparency, and actively engage with their communities.
Social responsibility, sustainability, and ethical practices are significant factors influencing their purchasing decisions.
How does Gen Z engage with traditional media and advertising?
Traditional forms of media and advertising have less influence on Gen Z compared to previous generations. They are more likely to seek out content from digital sources, such as social media, streaming platforms, and online forums.
Authenticity, relatability, and user-generated content resonate more with Gen Z than traditional advertising messages.
What impact does social activism have on Gen Z’s identity and worldview?
Social activism plays a central role in shaping Gen Z’s identity and worldview. They are vocal advocates for social justice, equality, and human rights, often leveraging social media and digital platforms to raise awareness and mobilize support for various causes.
Environmental sustainability, LGBTQ+ rights, racial equity, and mental health awareness are among the key issues that resonate strongly with Gen Z.
How does Gen Z view entrepreneurship and innovation?
Gen Z is characterized by its entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset. They are resourceful, creative, and unafraid to challenge conventional norms and systems. Many Gen Z individuals aspire to start their businesses or pursue passion projects, leveraging technology and digital platforms to turn their ideas into reality.
Conclusion
Generation Z, the first true digital natives, is reshaping society with their diverse perspectives, tech-savviness, and social activism. As the largest demographic cohort globally, their preferences in social media, workplace dynamics, and mental health trends have significant implications for businesses, policymakers, and society at large.
By understanding and engaging with Gen Z’s values and concerns, organizations can better adapt to the evolving landscape and build meaningful connections with the next generation of consumers and employees.
Sources
- US Census. National Population by Characteristics: 2010-2019
- Pew Research. On the Cusp of Adulthood and Facing an Uncertain Future: What We Know About Gen Z So Far
- GWI. Gen Z in 2023
- Murmuration. Looking Forward with Gen Z
- APA. Stress In America Generation Z
- Klear. State Of Influencer Marketing 23
- Deloitte. Striving for balance, advocating for change
- EY. Gen Z has become more politically active in the past year
- Pew. Early benchmarks show post millennials on track to be most diverse best educated generation yet
Manisha is a digital writer providing guidance in career development and growth. She facilitates skill development and implementation of the right strategies for advancement. At Jobera, She documents content around the latest market trend analysis, insights, and career planning.