Gallup report finds decline in Gen Z well-being amid rising satisfaction among older cohorts
Less than half of Gen Z Americans now report 'thriving,' while baby boomers record the highest levels of life satisfaction in the generational survey.
A recent Gallup poll indicates a shift in generational well-being, with significantly fewer young adults reporting they are "thriving." As of 2026, only 44% of individuals aged 18 to 29 meet the index criteria for thriving—a marked decline from the 64% recorded in 2010. The study utilizes the Cantril Self-Anchoring Striving Scale, defining thriving as a self-reported life rating of 7 or higher.
Conversely, Americans aged 65 and older report the highest level of life satisfaction. Currently, 53% of this cohort describes themselves as thriving, matching the record high seen in 2021. The data suggests that financial security plays a primary role in this trend, as 59% of respondents in this age group indicated they have sufficient funds to meet their desires, with two-thirds reporting no financial anxiety over the past week.
The decline in well-being for Gen Z accelerated following 2019. Gallup attributes this shift to rising rates of depression, a reduction in the quality of close relationships, and a decrease in daily feelings of productivity and enjoyment. Millennials and Gen X also show a decline in well-being metrics compared to previous years.
The 2026 findings are based on three quarterly surveys conducted by Gallup, involving a sample of 15,156 U.S. adults across all states and the District of Columbia.