When Does it Start and End?

November 22, 2024

Gen Z is the generation that came before Gen Alpha, and they’re now stepping into young adulthood and early careers. Like every generation, the exact birth year range can be tricky to pin down, but let’s break down the details to better understand who they are and what defines them.

Gen Z Years

Generation Z, also known as Zoomers, includes those born between 1996 and 2009. This generation was formed in the early 2000s during the rise of smartphones and social media. Known for their tech-savviness and activism, Gen Z is a group deeply influenced by the digital age and global events like the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic.

What Year Does Gen Z Start?

Generation Z started in 1996. This marks the year after Millennials ended, making Gen Z the first generation to fully grow up with the internet as a part of everyday life.

What Year Does Gen Z End?

Gen Z ends in 2009, when Generation Alpha begins. While generational cutoffs can vary slightly, most researchers agree that 2009 is a clear endpoint, as the digital landscape shifted again with the rise of smartphones and tablets dominating childhood experiences.

Age Range

As of now, Generation Z includes people aged 15 to 28 years old. This age group includes teens just starting high school and young adults navigating college, careers, and early adult responsibilities. This also means that most are of voting age, and are starting to be politically active.

What Generation Comes After Gen Z?

Following Gen Z is Generation Alpha, born starting in 2010. While Gen Z grew up with the internet and social media, Gen Alpha is the first generation to grow up in a world where technology is fully integrated into daily life from birth.

What Generation Came Before Gen Z?

Millennials were born between 1981 and 1995 and are the generation that came before Gen Z. Millennials were the first to experience the transition from analog to digital, growing up with computers, the rise of the internet, and early social media platforms like MySpace and Facebook.

Defining Characteristics

Gen Z grew up in a different world from millennials, and as a result have different characteristics. The following are some defining characteristics that make it different from other generations.

Digital Natives: Unlike Millennials, who adapted to new technology, Gen Z was born into a digital world. They’ve never known a world without the internet.
Socially and Politically Conscious: They are known for their passion for social and environmental issues. They’ve spearheaded movements on climate change, racial justice, and mental health awareness.
Health Conscious: In the 1980s and 1990s, processed foods and fast food became increasingly popular. However, the general public is now aware of how damaging these unhealthy eating habits can be.
Diverse and Inclusive: This generation values diversity and inclusion more than any generation before them. They grew up in a world where representation in media and politics was more widespread.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: With access to online resources and platforms, many are starting businesses or pursuing side hustles from a young age.
Financially Conscious: Having seen Millennials struggle with student debt and economic uncertainty, Gen Z tends to be more financially cautious. They saw their parents go through the great recession and want to be financially prepared for a similar event in the future.

Global Events

Global events have played a significant role in shaping their worldview:

9/11 and the War on Terror: While younger Gen Z may not remember these events, they grew up in the aftermath, which shaped global politics and security.
The Great Recession: Many kids witnessed their families struggling financially during the late 2000s, which influenced their values around money and stability.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: The pandemic disrupted education, work, and social interactions, leaving a lasting impression on this generation’s mental health, adaptability, and reliance on technology.

Summarizing Generation Z

Generation Z is a unique and dynamic group, bridging the gap between Millennials and Gen Alpha. Born between 1996 and 2009, they’ve grown up in a world of rapid technological advancements and major global challenges. Their digital fluency, commitment to change, and entrepreneurial mindset make them a generation to watch as they continue to shape the world. As Gen Z enters the workforce and takes on leadership roles, their impact on culture, technology, and social change will only grow stronger.