The Evolving Landscape of U.S. Social Media Use in 2025
Source: Social Media Fact Sheet (2025-11-21)
In 2025, social media remains a cornerstone of American digital life, with over 80% of adults actively engaging across multiple platforms. According to Pew Research Center’s recent survey of 5,022 U.S. adults, conducted from February to June 2025, social media usage continues to grow, driven by increased mobile adoption and the rise of new platforms like Threads and enhanced features on existing ones. The survey highlights that 72% of users access social media daily, with younger generations (ages 18-29) leading at 92%, while older adults (65+) are increasingly joining, now at 55%. Notably, 65% of Americans use social media for news consumption, reflecting its role in shaping public opinion and information dissemination. Beyond these core facts, recent trends reveal that social media influences political engagement, with 45% of users reporting that platforms impact their voting decisions. The adoption of social media for remote work and education has surged, especially during the pandemic recovery phase, with 60% of users leveraging these platforms for professional purposes. Additionally, the integration of AI-driven content curation and augmented reality features has enhanced user experiences, making social media more immersive. Privacy concerns remain prominent, with 58% of users expressing apprehension about data security, prompting platforms to implement stricter privacy policies. The demographic landscape shows increased diversity, with minority groups and older adults expanding their presence on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and emerging apps. As social media continues to evolve, its influence on culture, politics, and daily life in the U.S. is more profound than ever, shaping societal trends and individual behaviors in unprecedented ways. This ongoing transformation underscores the importance for users and policymakers to stay informed about digital habits and the implications of social media’s pervasive role in modern America.