Gen Z's Media Obsession: Why They Top the Charts in Content Consumption

Gen Z isn’t just known for their viral dance trends and meme culture — they also hold the crown when it comes to media consumption.

According to a recent comprehensive study by Talker Research, the youngest generation consumes more content daily than any other age group, averaging close to seven hours a day (6.6 hours, to be precise). And that’s not all: they’re also the most likely group to report watching 15 hours or more of content each day. Let that sink in!

How Much Content Are We Talking About?

The study uncovered that, on average, people across generations consume about six hours of media per day — adding up to a whopping 42 hours per week, or the equivalent of 91 full days of media per year.

Whether it’s streaming shows, scrolling through social media, or tuning into audio apps, it’s clear that our screens are winning the battle for attention.

Related: Excessive Online Scrolling Is Causing ‘Social Media-Related Nightmares’

The Cost of Staying Connected

Keeping up with the latest trends and content comes at a price, and Gen Z is spending the most on their media habits. On average, they shell out $97.70 each month on streaming services, social media subscriptions, and audio apps, totalling over $1,170 annually. Millennials aren't far behind, averaging $91.70 per month, while baby boomers spend significantly less at $35.60. For the Silent Generation — those who reached adulthood between 1946 and 1963 — media spending is even more conservative, staying under $25 a month.

A Glimpse into Generational Differences

It’s no surprise that the Silent Generation, who grew up amid the Great Depression and World War II, spends the least on media. This generation, shaped by the financial and social upheavals of their youth, remains the smallest cohort of the past century.

But today’s landscape is all about consumption and connectivity, and Gen Z leads this charge. With technology at their fingertips and a world of content ready for streaming, the youngest generation’s appetite for media shows no signs of slowing down.

Gen Z's media habits reflect not just the evolution of technology but the changing priorities and lifestyles of new generations. Whether it's streaming marathons, social media deep dives, or audio content on the go, this generation is setting new records — and redefining how we interact with content in the digital age.