Why Americans Under 30 Are So Miserable

Summary

Why Americans Under 30 Are So Miserable—And Why It’s Dragging the U.S. Down in the World Happiness RankingsThe United States has just hit a historic low in the 2025 World Happiness Report, and the biggest reason is the unhappiness of Americans under 30. Once expected to be the most optimistic stage of life, young adulthood in America is now marked by loneliness, economic stress, and declining mental health. Let’s dive into what’s happening, why it matters, and what can be done to change course.The U.S. at Its Lowest Happiness Ranking EverIn the latest World Happiness Report, the U.S. has fallen to 24th place worldwide, its lowest ranking since the study began. The sharpest drop is among young Americans under 30, whose reported life satisfaction has fallen so steeply that, if measured on their own, the U.S. would not even place in the top 60.Why Young Americans Are Struggling1. Social Isolation and Eating AloneLoneliness has become a defining feature of young adulthood in the U.S. Research shows that nearly one in four Americans between 18 and 24 eat all their meals alone in a day. Over the past two decades, solo dining among young people has surged by more than 50 percent. This lack of shared time with friends or family is directly linked to rising levels of isolation and declining happiness.2. Weak Social Support NetworksYoung Americans report feeling less supported than previous generations. Fewer say they have someone to rely on during tough times, and many feel disconnected from their communities. Social support is one of the strongest indicators of well-being, and its erosion is a key driver of unhappiness.3. Economic DisillusionmentThe “American Dream” feels out of reach for many under 30. With record student debt, unaffordable housing, and job insecurity, young adults face financial struggles their parents did not. Instead of seeing their 20s as a time of possibility, many see only barriers to stability and growth.4. Mental Health and Social MediaSocial media...