Generation Z (Gen Z)
Born: 1997 - 2012
Ages 13-28 in 2025
What Years Are Generation Z (Gen Z)?
Generation Z includes anyone born between 1997 and 2012. This makes Gen Z currently between 13 and 28 years old in 2025. Gen Z is the first generation to grow up entirely with smartphones, social media, and instant internet access from childhood. They have never known a world without Google, YouTube, or mobile apps.
Key Characteristics of Generation Z (Gen Z)
Digital Natives
Unlike Millennials who adapted to technology, Gen Z was born into it. They learned to swipe before they could write, grew up with tablets as toys, and consider technology an extension of themselves rather than a tool.
Socially Conscious
Gen Z is known for their strong stance on social justice, climate change, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial equality. They expect brands and employers to take clear positions on social issues and will actively boycott companies that do not align with their values.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Having witnessed Millennials struggle with student debt and economic uncertainty, Gen Z is highly entrepreneurial. They are more likely to have side hustles, create content online, or pursue freelance work.
Short Attention Spans, High Efficiency
Gen Z has an average attention span of 8 seconds compared to 12 for Millennials, but this is not necessarily negative. They have developed incredible ability to filter information quickly, multitask across platforms, and find answers fast.
Generation Z (Gen Z) in the Workplace
- Purpose-driven work: Want to know their work matters
- Feedback and growth: Expect regular communication and development opportunities
- Flexibility: Remote work and flexible hours are priorities
- Company culture: Will leave toxic environments regardless of pay
- Work-life integration: Blur the lines between work and personal life but on their terms
Cultural Markers That Define Generation Z (Gen Z)
- COVID-19 Pandemic: Experienced crucial high school and college years remotely
- TikTok: The defining social platform of their generation
- Climate Activism: Greta Thunberg and youth-led environmental movements
- Streaming Everything: Never knew cable TV, grew up with Netflix, Spotify, YouTube
- Me Too Movement: Witnessed major cultural reckoning during formative years
- Political Polarization: Came of age during highly divided political climate
- Meme Culture: Communication heavily influenced by internet humor and viral trends
Frequently Asked Questions About Generation Z (Gen Z)
Is 2010 Gen Z?
Yes, 2010 is Generation Z. Anyone born in 2010 is currently 15 years old and firmly within the Gen Z cohort that spans 1997-2012.
What comes after Gen Z?
Generation Alpha comes after Gen Z. Gen Alpha includes anyone born from 2013 to the present.
Are Gen Z and Millennials the same?
No, Gen Z and Millennials are different generations. Millennials were born 1981-1996, while Gen Z was born 1997-2012. The key difference is that Millennials remember life before widespread internet, Gen Z does not.
What is Gen Z known for?
Gen Z is known for being digital natives, socially conscious, entrepreneurial, diverse, and advocating for mental health awareness and climate action. They are also known for short attention spans but high information processing ability.
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