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The COVID-19 pandemic pushed loneliness into the spotlight as social distancing and lockdowns disrupted personal connections. Five years later, loneliness remains a prevalent issue for many Americans. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness an epidemic, emphasizing its lasting impact on mental and physical health. Despite the return of in-person gatherings and advancements in digital communication over the last few years, feelings of isolation persist, driven by factors such as remote work, shifting social dynamics, and an overreliance on technology.
CivicScience examined the state of loneliness in the United States today and how relationships and technology impact feelings of isolation.
1. Overall loneliness has declined in 2025, but not for younger Americans.
CivicScience’s ongoing data collection reveals that a third of U.S. adults report feelings of loneliness, marking a four-percentage-point decline from last year but a slight increase of one percentage point compared to 2023. However, Gen Z – who grew up during the digital age – is experiencing significantly higher levels of loneliness. Among Gen Z adults aged 18-24, loneliness has risen slightly over the past three years, reaching 57% in the latest findings. In contrast, loneliness levels among other age groups have declined notably in recent years, underscoring a unique generational disparity.

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2. Americans who socialize most frequently are more likely to report an increase in feeling lonely post-pandemic.
Discussions about loneliness today often highlight the lasting effects of the pandemic. While a majority of Americans (55%) report that their levels of loneliness are ‘about the same’ as before the pandemic, the remaining responses are evenly divided: 23% say their loneliness has ‘increased,’ while another 23% report a ‘decrease’ in their feelings of isolation – with ‘increased’ feelings down and ‘decreased’ feelings up from last year.
Additionally, data from last year underscored that loneliness isn’t just about being alone, it’s a complex emotional experience. New findings reveal that individuals who socialize most frequently are more likely to report increased loneliness since the pandemic. At the same time, those who socialize at least monthly are also more likely to report a decrease in loneliness.

3. Technology is a strong driver of loneliness.
It may come as no surprise that technology is driving loneliness. New CivicScience data show that:
- Digital device addiction is at an all-time high – 56% of respondents consider themselves addicted to their digital devices as of January 22, 2025.
- Fifty-seven percent of U.S. adults agree that technological advancements have contributed to increased feelings of loneliness. Whereas just 10% disagree (the remaining 33% are neutral).
- Devices are a form of escapism for many Americans – 52% of respondents say they’re at least somewhat dependent on technology as a form of escapism from everyday life.

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The persistence of loneliness, even as overall levels decline, underscores the complexities of social connection in a post-pandemic world. While in-person interactions have resumed and digital communication continues to evolve, technological overreliance and shifting social dynamics contribute to feelings of isolation, especially among younger generations. As Americans navigate these challenges, understanding the factors driving loneliness – whether through technology, generational shifts, or changing social norms – can provide valuable insights into combating the epidemic of isolation.