Generation Z's Shifting Relationship With Religion

Signs point to growing spiritual engagement among some young adults, even as secularization persists

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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While religious identification and practice have declined among younger generations in recent decades, new data suggests parts of Generation Z are moving back toward belief and spiritual engagement. However, strong secular identities remain common, and the overall picture is complex, with some subgroups like young men showing increased religious participation while others pursue more individualized spiritual paths.

Why it matters

This shift in Gen Z's relationship with religion could have significant implications for the future of faith and spirituality in America, potentially offering a counterpoint to the long-running secularization trends that have reshaped the religious landscape. Understanding these evolving patterns is crucial for religious leaders, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of belief and practice in the United States.

The details

Several surveys indicate that belief in God or a higher power among Gen Z, especially in the UK, has grown dramatically in recent years, rising from around 28% in 2018 to nearly 49% by 2024. Data also suggest increases in church attendance and religious commitment among some young adults, with younger generations now among the most active church-going groups. Anecdotal reports point to growth in specific religious communities, such as a 6% increase in Generation Z Catholics in some areas from 2022 to 2023. However, many polls still show high rates of religious unaffiliation among Gen Z, with 34%-38% identifying as religiously unaffiliated ('nones'), a much higher share than older generations.

  • In 2018, belief in God or a higher power among Gen Z was around 28%.
  • By 2024, belief in God or a higher power among Gen Z had risen to nearly 49%.
  • From 2022 to 2023, some areas saw a 6% increase in Generation Z Catholics.

The players

Generation Z

The generation of people born between the late 1990s and the early 2010s, who are now in their late teens and early 20s.

Baby Boomers

The generation of people born between 1946 and 1964, who are now in their 60s and 70s.

Generation X

The generation of people born between the mid-1960s and the early 1980s, who are now in their 40s and 50s.

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What’s next

Researchers and religious leaders will likely continue to monitor these trends in Gen Z's relationship with religion and spirituality to better understand the long-term implications for faith communities and American society.

The takeaway

While Generation Z has historically been less religious than older generations, the recent data suggests a more complex and evolving picture, with some segments showing increased interest in belief and practice, even as strong secular identities persist. This shift could have significant implications for the future of religion and spirituality in the United States.