In 2005, only 7% of the U.S. population used one or more social networking sites. By 2015 that figure increased to 65%. Of those who use the internet, a massive majority (76%) use social media, but that is beginning to plateau. Among ages 50-64, use has not increased since 2013; seniors age 65-79 are now driving growth. Some 88% of those between 18 and 29 years old say they use any form of social media.
SOURCE: Pew Research Center surveys, 2005-2006, 2008-2015 data on US Social Media Report, Oct. 8, 2015
Facebook is one of the most popular social media sites among American adults, with about seven-in-ten (69%) users. YouTube closely matches Facebook’s reach with 73% of adults reporting use; it is also visited by 94% of 18- to 24-year-olds. Snapchat, Instagram and Twitter have a strong following among young adults. “A majority of Facebook, Snapchat and Instagram users visit these platforms on a daily basis.”
SOURCE: Pew Research Center survey conducted Jan. 3-10, 2018. Report: “Social Media Use in 2018”
“Today around seven-in-ten Americans use social media to connect with one another, engage with news content, share information and entertain themselves.”
SOURCE: Pew Research Center “Social Media Fact Sheet,” Feb. 5, 2018
