For years, it seemed like each new generation was becoming less religious than the last.
But a recent survey of 10,000 people suggests that Gen Z is breaking that trend. While older generations have seen a steady rise in atheism and religious disaffiliation, Gen Z is showing a renewed interest in spirituality, though not always in traditional forms. This change suggests that younger people are exploring faith differently from their parents, moving away from strict atheism but not necessarily returning to organised religion. And, to be clear, Gen Z is still the least religious generation in history. Still, here’s what the latest research reveals about this surprising trend.
1. Fewer Gen Z members identify as atheists.
While past generations saw an increase in atheism, Gen Z appears to be heading in the opposite direction. A study commissioned for Christopher Gasson’s book found that only 13% of Gen Z members identify as atheists, compared to 25% of Generation X and 20% of Baby Boomers.
That’s a significant drop, suggesting that while Gen Z may not be fully embracing religion in the traditional sense, they’re not rejecting it outright either. Many young people today are open to the idea of something greater, even if they don’t subscribe to a specific faith.
2. Spirituality is on the rise among younger generations.
Source: Unsplash While Gen Z is less likely to call themselves atheists, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re returning to organised religion. Instead, many are identifying as “spiritual.” In fact, 62% of 18 to 24-year-olds say they consider themselves spiritual, according to The Times.
This change suggests that while Gen Z may not be attending traditional religious services, they’re still interested in exploring deeper questions about life, meaning, and purpose. Whether it’s through meditation, personal belief systems, or non-traditional faith practices, spirituality is becoming a key part of their identity.
3. Religious disaffiliation is still growing.
At the same time, a separate Pew Research Center study found that fewer than half (45%) of 18 to 29-year-olds in the U.S. identify as Christian. That’s a notable drop, with 44% of this age group reporting no religious affiliation at all.
This suggests that while Gen Z may be moving away from atheism, they’re also stepping away from institutional religion. Many young people are exploring their beliefs outside of traditional churches, shaping a new kind of faith that doesn’t necessarily fit into the old categories.
4. There’s a growing interest in personal faith.
Many Gen Zers are turning to faith in more personal and individual ways. Some are embracing aspects of religion without fully committing to a specific denomination or church. Others are reinterpreting religious teachings to align with modern values.
This approach to faith allows them to engage with spirituality on their own terms. Rather than following the religious practices of their parents, they’re carving out new ways to explore their beliefs, whether through prayer, mindfulness, or community-based spirituality.
5. Social media is shaping modern faith.
Unlike previous generations, Gen Z has access to unlimited religious and spiritual discussions at their fingertips. Through social media, podcasts, and online communities, young people are engaging in conversations about faith in ways that didn’t exist before.
For some, this means discovering new perspectives and exploring different belief systems. For others, it’s about finding a sense of belonging outside of traditional religious institutions. Online spaces are offering a new way to connect with faith, one that doesn’t require attending a physical place of worship.
6. Some Gen Zers are drawn to religious values.
Interestingly, some young people are embracing specific religious teachings, even if they don’t fully commit to a faith. A recent Times article highlighted how some Gen Zers are turning to Christian values, including waiting until marriage for sex, as a way to bring meaning and structure to their lives.
This suggests that for some, religion offers a sense of purpose and discipline that’s appealing in an increasingly fast-paced and uncertain world. Rather than rejecting faith entirely, they’re selectively adopting the parts that resonate with them.
7. Atheism isn’t as appealing as it once was.
For older generations, atheism often represented a break from rigid religious upbringings. But for Gen Z, who grew up in a more secular world, outright atheism may not hold the same appeal.
Many young people see spirituality as a way to explore life’s biggest questions without the strict rules of organised religion or the complete dismissal of faith that atheism represents. This middle ground is shaping a new approach to belief.
8. The pandemic sparked deeper reflection.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced many people to reflect on life, death, and the meaning of existence. For some Gen Zers, this led to a renewed interest in faith and spirituality.
Periods of uncertainty often push people to seek comfort and understanding in something greater than themselves. While some may not have turned to traditional religion, many found peace in spirituality, mindfulness, or a belief in a higher power.
9. Family influences still play a role.
Even though Gen Z is less religious overall, family upbringing still matters. Those raised in faith-based households are more likely to maintain some form of religious belief, even if they reinterpret it in their own way. For others, growing up without a strong religious background has given them the freedom to explore faith on their own terms, without the pressure of tradition.
10. Mental health and faith are becoming linked.
With increasing awareness of mental health, some Gen Zers are turning to spirituality as a coping mechanism. Practices like prayer, meditation, and gratitude journaling have become tools for emotional well-being.
Faith, for many, isn’t just about belief; it’s about finding inner peace and stability in an unpredictable world. This has led some young people to rediscover religious teachings in ways that prioritise mental and emotional balance.
11. The search for community is strong.
One of the biggest reasons people turn to religion is the sense of belonging it offers. With traditional religious attendance declining, many Gen Zers are looking for spiritual communities outside of churches, temples, and mosques.
Some are joining online faith groups, engaging in personal study, or finding spiritual connection through friendships and social movements. They’re redefining what community-based faith looks like.
12. Religion is becoming more personal.
Gen Z’s approach to faith is deeply individual. Instead of subscribing to a single belief system, many are blending elements of different religions, philosophies, and spiritual practices to create something that feels right for them.
Having a more flexible approach allows them to explore faith without feeling boxed into a rigid structure. It’s less about following rules and more about personal connection and meaning.
13. The future of faith is evolving.
While older generations may see Gen Z as moving away from religion, the reality is more complex. They’re not necessarily rejecting faith—they’re reshaping it. Whether through personal spirituality, online discussions, or selective religious practices, they’re engaging with belief in ways that reflect modern life.
As traditional religious affiliation declines, it’s clear that faith isn’t disappearing, it’s evolving. And for Gen Z, that evolution is about finding meaning on their own terms.
