Who is Gen Z?
Generation Z, often shortened to Gen Z, are the demographic cohort succeeding Millennials and preceding Generation Alpha. Demographers and researchers typically use birth years ranging from the mid-1990s to mid-2000s to define Gen Z. The first Gen Zers were born between 1995 and 2012. They are currently between 11 and 27 years old (as of 2022).
Gen Z is the most racially and ethnically diverse generation to date. They are true digital natives who have grown up with the internet, social media, smartphones and other technologies. Some key traits that define Gen Z include:
- Born between 1995-2012
- Racially/ethnically diverse
- True digital natives
- Grew up with technology and social media
- Value individual expression
- Passionate about issues like justice and equality
Gen Z tends to be more progressive and embracing of new ideas compared to previous generations. They value individual expression and are passionate about issues like racial justice, gender equality, climate change and mental health awareness.
When were Gen Z babies born?
As mentioned, there is no definitive agreement on the exact birth years that define Gen Z, but most demographers and researchers believe Gen Z birth years fall somewhere between 1995-2012. So in general, babies born during that approximate 18 year timeframe are considered Gen Z babies.
Here is a breakdown of the common birth year ranges used to define Gen Z:
| Pew Research Center | 1997-2012 |
| U.S. Census Bureau | 1997-2012 |
| MetLife | 1996-2010 |
| McCrindle Research | 1995-2009 |
| Bump | 1997-2012 |
As you can see, most organizations and researchers define Gen Z as starting with births in the mid-to-late 1990s. The end birth years range from 2009 to 2012. But overall, the core Gen Z birth years are generally considered to be between 1995-2012.
What years were Millennials born vs Gen Z?
Millennials precede Gen Z, so their birth years are earlier. Here is a comparison of the birth years for Millennials vs Gen Z:
| Generation | Birth Years |
| Millennials | 1981-1996 |
| Gen Z | 1995-2012 |
As you can see, there is some overlap between Millennials and Gen Z in the mid-1990s. Most definitions put Millennials as ending around 1996 and Gen Z beginning around 1995/1997. But essentially, Millennials were born in the 1980s to mid 1990s, while Gen Z follows starting in the late 1990s.
What are some characteristics of Gen Z?
Here are some of the major characteristics and traits that define Generation Z:
- Tech-savvy – They are “digital natives” and comfortable with technology from a young age.
- Social media fluent – They use social media and online platforms to connect, create content and learn.
- Value diversity – Gen Z is the most racially/ethnically diverse generation, leading to open-mindedness.
- Seeking financial stability – Growing up during the Great Recession, they aim for financial security.
- Entrepreneurial – Many want to start their own businesses and chart their own career paths.
- Independent – More pragmatic and independent compared to previous generations. Rely less on parents.
- Anxious/stressed – Higher levels of anxiety, depression and mental health issues.
- Socially conscious – Passionate about social justice and environmental causes.
In summary, Gen Z tends to be very tech and social media savvy, racially/ethnically diverse leading to openness to new ideas, financially focused due to growing up amidst economic uncertainty, and socially conscious regarding issues like justice and equality.
What years are Gen Alpha being born?
Generation Alpha is the demographic cohort following Gen Z, with birth years generally starting in the early 2010s. Here are the approximate birth year ranges that define Generation Alpha:
| McCrindle Research | 2010-2024 |
| Pew Research Center | 2013-2025 |
| U.S. Census Bureau | 2013-2025 |
| Forbes | 2010-2025 |
Most organizations estimate Gen Alpha as starting around 2010-2013 and continuing through the 2020s. So the Gen Alpha birth years are ongoing, with the generation currently being born and still yet to fully come. But the first wave of Gen Alpha are those born between 2010-2025.
What comes after Gen Z?
The generation following Gen Z is Generation Alpha. Gen Alpha is the newest generational cohort, with birth years starting around 2010-2013 and continuing into the 2020s and probably later.
Gen Alpha will be the first generation entirely born within the 21st century. They succeed Gen Z and will be shaped by a rapidly evolving technological and social landscape.
Some key traits that may define Gen Alpha:
- Tech embedded from birth
- AI and automation adapted
- Highly educated
- Financially focused
- Entrepreneurial
- Socially progressive
- Global citizens
Gen Alpha will be the most tech-infused generation from birth, with AI, robots, virtual reality and other futuristic tech part of their everyday lives. They will be highly educated, financially prudent, socially progressive and comfortable with diversity.
How old are the youngest Gen Z?
The youngest members of Gen Z are those born in the last few years of the generation’s defined birth years. Here’s a look at how old the youngest Gen Zers are right now:
| Birth Year | Current Age |
| 2012 | 11 years old |
| 2011 | 12 years old |
| 2010 | 13 years old |
| 2009 | 14 years old |
Most definitions of Gen Z have them ending birth years around 2010 to 2012. So the very youngest Gen Z’ers today would be between 11-14 years old, having been born between 2009-2012.
Many of these young Gen Z’ers are currently in middle school and will graduate high school in the early to mid 2030s. The older members of Gen Z are now in their 20s and graduating college. But Gen Z spans a wide range of life stages from elementary schoolers to young professionals.
Do people born in 2008 count as Gen Z?
Yes, babies born in 2008 are considered part of Generation Z in most definitions. Here is a recap of the common birth year ranges that demographers use to define Gen Z:
| Pew Research Center | 1997-2012 |
| U.S. Census Bureau | 1997-2012 |
| McCrindle Research | 1995-2009 |
As you can see, 2008 falls squarely within the birth years used to define Gen Z in all major definitions. While the start and end years vary slightly, 2008 is safely within the 1995-2012 range that most organizations use to designate Gen Z birth years.
So in summary, yes – babies born in 2008 are considered part of the Gen Z generation. The oldest Gen Z’ers were born in the mid-1990s, while the youngest were born between 2009-2012. At 14-15 years old, those born in 2008 are solidly Gen Z.
What generation will be after Alpha?
There is no definitive name or birth year range yet defined for the generation after Alpha. Typically, generations are only named and widely agreed upon once the generation emerges and displays defining traits/characteristics.
Most generational researchers believe Gen Alpha will extend into at least the early 2030s. So the next generation would logically start being born in the 2030s or 2040s. Some speculative names floating for this generation include Generation Beta, Generation Delta, or Generation Zed. But only time will tell when this cohort is born and what traits shape their generational personality. Until then, Gen Alpha is the newest named generation following Gen Z.
Conclusion
In summary, a Gen Z baby is defined as someone born between approximately 1995-2012. This places Gen Z birth years just after Millennials and before Generation Alpha. Gen Z babies grew up with the internet, social media, smartphones and connected technology.
Key Gen Z traits compared to previous generations include greater diversity, more progressive views, and defined by events like the Great Recession and political/social activism. But they are still young, so their full generational impact remains to be seen. For now, the Gen Z cohort is coming of age, graduating school and entering the workforce. Their influence on society, culture and the economy will become more evident over time. The future according to Gen Z is sure to be innovative and fast-changing.