The latest data released by the Pew Research Center provides a fresh snapshot of social media usage in the United States.
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As discussions continue about the influence of social media, its impact on the youth, and moderation effects, this data paints a more nuanced picture. Although we are spending less time on social media, traditional giants still play a pivotal role in users’ digital lives.
YouTube and Facebook Remain Predominantly Dominant
According to a survey conducted with over 5,000 American adults between February and June 2025, YouTube and Facebook are still the most widely used platforms. About 84% report checking YouTube, and 71% still use Facebook, confirming the stability of these platforms over time.
Instagram follows with 50% of users, becoming the only other app to surpass the 50% mark. Lower in the rankings are TikTok (37%), WhatsApp (32%), Reddit (26%), and then Snapchat and X.
Newcomers like Threads, Bluesky, or Truth Social remain modest, with about one in ten Americans, or fewer, stating they use these platforms.
The study also differentiates between occasional use and actual visit frequency. A second part of the survey reveals that Facebook and YouTube are the two most frequently visited platforms daily, with nearly one in two adults visiting them each day, particularly regular among those aged 30 to 49 for Facebook and under 30 for YouTube.
Varying Trends by Age and Emerging Behaviors
Generational gaps are widening and gradually reshaping the landscape of usage. Young adults are increasingly gravitating towards Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Reddit. For instance, 80% of those aged 18-29 say they use Instagram, compared to just 19% of those 65 and older.
Conversely, YouTube and Facebook remain the only two cross-generational services, used by a majority of each age group, although their roles vary. YouTube is more popular among younger users, while Facebook maintains a strong presence among those aged 30-64.
The dynamics of adoption also vary by educational level, gender, and political affiliation. Women are more active on Instagram and TikTok, while men favor Reddit or X. College-educated adults are more likely to use Reddit or WhatsApp, whereas TikTok appeals more to less educated audiences.
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Lastly, political divisions are becoming increasingly apparent: Threads, TikTok, Reddit, and Bluesky show a more Democrat-leaning audience, while X and Truth Social tend to attract more Republicans.
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Samantha Klein is a seasoned tech journalist with a sharp focus on Apple and mobile ecosystems. With over a decade of experience, she brings insightful commentary and deep technical understanding to the fast-evolving world of consumer technology.