How Popular Are Social Networks Among Different Social Groups?
Social networks are online platforms that allow users to interact with each other, share information, and create content. Social networks have become an integral part of people’s lives, as they use them for various purposes, such as communication, entertainment, education, business, and socialization. However, not all social networks are equally popular among different social groups, such as age, gender, education, income, and location. In this article, we will explore some of the statistics and trends that show how social networks are used by different segments of the population.
Age
One of the most obvious factors that influence social network usage is age. Generally speaking, younger generations are more likely to use social media than older ones, as they are more familiar with digital technologies and more interested in online activities. According to Statista [1], the global average age of social media users in 2023 was 34.6 years, with the youngest users being in Africa (25.4 years) and the oldest in Europe (41.8 years). However, within each region, there are also significant differences among age groups. For example, in the United States, 95% of adults aged 18 to 29 use at least one social media site, compared to 70% of those aged 50 to 64 and 38% of those aged 65 and older [2]. Similarly, in China, 97% of internet users aged 16 to 24 use social media, compared to 72% of those aged 55 to 64 [3].
Gender
Another factor that affects social network usage is gender. Although the global gender gap in internet access has narrowed over the years, there are still differences in how men and women use social media. According to Statista [1], in 2023, there were slightly more male social media users (50.9%) than female ones (49.1%) worldwide. However, this ratio varies by platform and region. For example, Facebook has more female users (54%) than male ones (46%) globally [4], while YouTube has more male users (55%) than female ones (45%) [5]. Moreover, in some regions, such as the Middle East and North Africa, there are more male social media users (63%) than female ones (37%) [1], while in others, such as North America and Europe, there are more female social media users (52%) than male ones (48%) [1].
Education
Another factor that influences social network usage is education. Generally speaking, people with higher levels of education are more likely to use social media than those with lower levels of education, as they have more access to digital devices and internet services, and more interest in online information and communication. According to Pew Research Center [2], in the United States, 81% of adults with a college degree or higher use at least one social media site, compared to 60% of those with a high school diploma or less. Similarly, in China, 89% of internet users with a college degree or higher use social media, compared to 66% of those with a high school diploma or less [3].
Income
Another factor that affects social network usage is income. Generally speaking, people with higher incomes are more likely to use social media than those with lower incomes, as they have more disposable income to spend on digital devices and internet services, and more opportunities to use social media for professional and personal purposes. According to Pew Research Center [2], in the United States,
