Different generations interact with social media in ways that reflect their habits, values, and digital upbringings. Understanding which platforms attract specific age groups, and the types of content they engage with, is essential for anyone interested in reaching audiences effectively.
In our analysys we rely mostly on data from Pew Research Center, Statista, and Sprout Social.
We explore how teens, millennials, and older adults use social media: which platforms they use, as well as the styles, themes, and trends that shape their behavior online.
Although there may be some significant regional differences, we aimed to draw some general conclusions and point out trends that appear to be global.
By looking closely at each group’s habits, this guide makes it easier to create appropriate content, instead of getting lost in a crowded digital space.
Content and Platform Preferences by Age Group
Teens and Gen Z (13 – 24)
Teens and Gen Z gravitate toward platforms that offer quick, visual, and interactive experiences. Their top choices are TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, with YouTube remaining a staple for video content and tutorials.
They prefer content that is short, engaging, and easy to share with friends. Authenticity is highly valued, as young users are more likely to trust influencers and creators who present real-life moments and speak informally.
Content types:
- Short-form video clips (e.g., TikTok dances, viral challenges)
- Memes, GIFs, and trending audio snippets
- User-generated stories and behind-the-scenes peeks
- Interactive polls and quizzes on Stories
- Micro-vlogs and daily life snippets
Themes:
- Social justice, mental health, and inclusivity
- Pop culture, fashion, and music trends
- Gaming highlights and esports updates
Behavior:
- Favor fast content consumption, often multitasking between apps
- Highly engaged in commenting, sharing, and direct messaging
- Strong focus on privacy and controlled sharing settings
- Quick to adopt new platforms and experiment with app features
Platforms:
| Platform | Popularity | Notable Features Used |
|---|---|---|
| TikTok | Very High | For You feed, Trends |
| High | Polls, Filters, IGTV | |
| Snapchat | High | Private groups, Lenses |
| YouTube | High | Shorts, Subscriptions |
Millennials (25 – 40)
Millennials are avid users of social media, but their habits differ from younger generations.
Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X are the core platforms. Millennials enjoy visually curated content, practical advice, and experiences that feel aspirational or relatable.
They regularly follow brands, influencers, and public figures but expect authenticity and transparency.
Content types:
- Instagram photo posts and Stories
- Long-form videos (YouTube vlogs, tutorials)
- Infographics and educational threads on Twitter
- Facebook event announcements and group discussions
- User reviews and unboxing videos
Themes:
- Wellness, mindfulness, and personal development
- Parenting, travel, and home projects
- Career tips, entrepreneurship, and side hustles
Behavior:
- More likely to research before sharing or purchasing
- Engage in group discussions and private communities (e.g., Facebook Groups)
- Value brands taking stands on social and environmental issues
- Use social media to organize activities and connect with real-life friends
Platforms:
| Platform | Popularity | Notable Features Used |
|---|---|---|
| High | Filters, Stories, IGTV | |
| High | Groups, Marketplace | |
| YouTube | High | Playlists, Comments |
| X | Moderate | Hashtags, Trends |
| Growing | Articles, Networking |
Gen X (41 – 56)
Gen X users have adapted well to digital platforms. Their habits are shaped less by chasing trends and more by seeking useful, trustworthy information and networking opportunities.
This generation values connections that support both their personal goals and professional aspirations: they gravitate toward platforms and content that empower informed decision-making.
Content Types:
- News stories and informative articles
- Industry updates and thought leadership pieces (especially on LinkedIn)
- Product reviews and comprehensive buying guides
- How-to and explainer videos (notably on YouTube)
Themes:
- Personal finance and career advancement
- Professional development and workplace trends
- Community events and networking opportunities
Behavior:
- Frequently use social media to stay informed or develop professional connections
- Spend more time per session, but check platforms less often
- Are selective in their engagement, interacting mainly with reputable sources and familiar brands
- Prefer longer written posts and in-depth video content
Platforms:
| Platform | Popularity | Notable Features Used |
|---|---|---|
| Very High | Groups, News Feed | |
| YouTube | High | Subscriptions, Comments |
| High | Posts, Messaging |
Boomers (57 – 75)
Boomers have increasingly embraced social media as a way to keep in touch with family, stay updated on important news, and share meaningful life moments. Their approach to social platforms is rooted in reliability, clarity, and a focus on practical value.
They typically favor established and easy-to-use platforms over newer, trend-driven apps.
Content Types:
- Community updates and family photos
- News articles and current events
- Nostalgic content and historical retrospectives
- Buying guides and detailed product reviews
- How-to videos (especially for home projects or hobbies)
Themes:
- Retirement planning, wellness, and personal finance
- Local community activities and support networks
- Family milestones, traditions, and life achievements
Behavior:
- Access social platforms less frequently, but spend longer during each session
- Primarily engage with content from known contacts and trusted brands
- Favor detailed written posts or longer video formats over fleeting or fast-moving trends
- Use social media mainly as an information source, rather than for entertainment
Platforms:
| Platform | Popularity | Notable Features Used |
|---|---|---|
| Very High | News Feed, Groups | |
| YouTube | High | Subscriptions, Comments |
| Moderate | Boards, Pins |
Tips for Brands: Adjusting Content to Different Age Groups
Brands hoping to reach younger audiences need dynamic, fast-paced media.
- On TikTok and Instagram, use short videos and trending topics.
- Include interactive elements, such as challenges or polls, and let real personalities shine for credibility.
For millennials, prioritize story-driven content.
- Tutorials, visually appealing posts, and authentic reviews work well on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
- Engage users with question stickers, live Q&A sessions, or behind-the-scenes clips.
- Share user-generated content and respond directly in comments: it helps build loyalty.
Gen X and Boomers both look for useful information and reliable connections.
- Longer posts and explainer videos should be shared on Facebook and YouTube.
- Highlight trusted testimonials, practical tips, and community discussions.
- Use a clear, friendly tone and emphasize helpful features, like “how-tos” or product demos.
No matter which age group you’re targeting, the AI tool Stryng is probably your best solution. The tone, length, style, and other key elements of your post can be easily customized in the configuration settings. On top of that, a built-in AI-assisted editor helps refine your content to a professional standard. Stryng also integrates with all major social media platforms, so posts can be scheduled and published at the time that works best for you.
Summary
| Age Group | Top Platforms | Popular Content | Common Themes | User Behavior |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teens & Gen Z | TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube | Short videos, memes, stories | Trends, activism, pop culture | Multitasking, quick interaction |
| Millennials | Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn | Photo posts, stories, vlogs, infographics | Wellness, travel, career tips | In-depth research, group engagement |
| Gen X & Boomers | Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest | News articles, family updates, reviews, how-to videos | Community, personal finance, nostalgia | Fewer logins, longer sessions, trusted sources |
