Gen Z reports the highest loneliness rate of any generation at 67% — compared with just 44% of baby boomers — reversing the old assumption that loneliness was primarily a problem of old age.

It found no overall rise in loneliness among older adults during that period, although average loneliness increased after age 75. There is a related distinction in a 10-year study of older adults’ social networks previously covered by Science Blog. It does not show Gen Z becoming lonelier across time while baby boomers become less lonely. Gen Z covers millions of people whose cultures, incomes, families, friendships and living arrangements differ sharply. In a weighted 2024 survey of US adults, Gen Z had the highest classified loneliness rate and baby boomers the lowest.