Gen Z Most Likely to Believe Revival Is Coming to America

New survey data shows younger generations are more optimistic about the country's future.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:29pm

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A highly stylized, repeating pattern of a single, iconic lifestyle object in a grid, using bold, neon colors and heavy black outlines to create a modern pop art aesthetic that conceptually represents the generational divide in views on the country's future.A vibrant pop art interpretation of the generational divide in beliefs about America's future.Boulder Today

A new survey from a Colorado-based research firm has found that Generation Z, those born between 1997 and 2012, are the most likely age group to believe that a cultural and spiritual revival is coming to America. The survey of over 5,000 U.S. adults found that 68% of Gen Z respondents expressed optimism about a coming revival, compared to just 42% of Millennials, 31% of Gen X, and 22% of Baby Boomers.

Why it matters

The findings suggest a growing generational divide in perspectives on the country's future, with younger Americans more hopeful about the prospect of a national renewal. This could have significant implications for the future of American politics, culture, and society as Gen Z comes of age and gains more influence.

The details

The survey, conducted by Boulder-based Horizon Research, asked respondents about their beliefs regarding a potential cultural, spiritual, and political revival in the United States. Researchers found that factors like religious affiliation, political ideology, and geographic location all played a role in shaping views on the topic. For example, 78% of evangelical Christians expressed belief in a coming revival, compared to just 19% of those with no religious affiliation.

  • The survey was conducted in February and March of 2026.

The players

Horizon Research

A Colorado-based research firm that conducted the survey on beliefs about a coming revival in America.

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What they’re saying

“The data shows a real generational divide when it comes to optimism about the country's future. Younger Americans seem to have a much stronger belief that positive change is on the horizon.”

— Dr. Samantha Wilkins, Lead Researcher, Horizon Research

The takeaway

The survey results highlight the growing influence of Gen Z and their distinct worldview compared to older generations. As this cohort becomes more politically and culturally engaged, their beliefs about America's future could play a significant role in shaping the national discourse.