Millennials and Gen Zers Prefer Using Social Media to Google

Diverse group of young people looking at smartphones, standing against a wall, casual attire.

Google’s been around for ages. Since 1998, its search algorithm has powered the world’s questions. Every day, over 8.5 billion searches zip through its engine—6.3 million every single minute. But now, the tide is shifting. Gen Z and Millennials are shaking things up. They are choosing social media and AI over Google for their searches, as revealed by a survey done by ExpressVPN, which covered 4,000 people from the US, UK, France, and Germany, defining how people are looking for answers these days.

Now, let me be clear: Google hasn’t been thrown into the trash. About 76% of full-time workers still use it every single day. Familiarity is the glue that keeps many sticking with it. If you grew up using something, it’s natural to go back to it—kind of grabbing the same old remote every time you watch TV. Google is fast, simple, and dependable. Those who prioritize getting things done quickly or without much fuss often stick to it.

But when you zoom in on younger generations, things start to look different. The story shifts. The pull of Google isn’t as strong.

Younger Generations Steer Away

For Gen Z and Millennials, social media has become their first stop for finding answers. Need a quick idea for dinner? Searching for some trendy advice? TikTok, Instagram, and the like are becoming their new best friends. These platforms provide rapid answers in visually appealing ways, often cutting straight to the point with short videos or posts that hold attention better.

Take the 18–26 age group, for example. A whopping 66% of them use social media daily to find information. It’s not hard to see why. This generation craves speed, authenticity, and content that feels alive. Social media platforms meet them where they’re at, with dynamic and entertaining ways of delivering information—things Google just doesn’t excel at.

Even Millennials, who are slightly older, are getting in on the action. Of the 27–34-year-olds surveyed, 60% said they use social platforms daily for searches. Older Millennials aren’t far behind, either: 62% of 35–42-year-olds and 58% of those aged 43–58 turn to social media for advice or recommendations. While younger people might gravitate toward TikTok and Instagram, older users often stick with Facebook, finding value in the community-driven advice it offers.

What’s surprising is that women seem to embrace this shift more. About 63% of women use social media daily to search for information, compared to 57% of men. This trend cuts across all walks of life: students, part-time workers, and full-timers are leading the charge. Even unemployed folks, half of them, turn to social platforms daily for opportunities, ideas, or simple guidance.

The Appeal of Social Searches

So, why is this happening? One word: authenticity. On social media, you’ll find user-generated content—reviews, personal tips, real-time insights. It feels relatable in a way Google doesn’t. Whether it’s finding a great café, a DIY tutorial, or trip ideas, people love that personal touch.

Entertainment is a big part of this, too. Turns out, memes, videos, and viral challenges are what Gen Z (42%) and people aged 35–42 (44%) are searching for most. Social media is perfect for fun, engaging content that people can share with their friends.

Practical searches are popular as well. Gen Z loves finding restaurants via social media, with 42% using platforms to discover their next meal. Millennials aren’t far behind—39% of 27–34-year-olds and 36% of 35–42-year-olds use social media for food recommendations. TikTok videos showing off delicious food or Instagram reels with foodie tips are irresistible for many.

Reviews are another big deal. Want to buy something? Check TikTok or Instagram for honest feedback. Among Gen Z, 34% rely on social media for this, while 39% of 35–42-year-olds feel the same. Peer advice builds trust—something Google reviews can’t always guarantee.

Social media is also becoming popular for events or how-to content. Tutorials and guides pull in younger users, while updates on local happenings grab attention across age groups. Even older folks are starting to catch on. Their numbers might not match the younger crowd’s, but they’re not far behind when it comes to searching for news or staying informed.

What’s Next for Search?

With all this change, the question isn’t just about what people want in a search tool. It’s about how search tools will adapt. According to the survey, trust and relevance matter most. Around 44% of users want platforms to better combat misinformation, while 35% want tighter data privacy controls. People are tired of half-baked answers and invasive tracking.

Person searching on Google using a laptop in a bright, sunny workspace.

People also want search tools that understand them better. Imagine a search engine that feels like a conversation, not just a transaction. About 28% of users want more personalized, context-aware responses. It’s not about being spoiled; it’s about feeling heard.

In the future, search won’t just be on one platform or device—it’ll blend seamlessly into everything. Think AI, social media, and traditional search merging into one smooth experience. About 20% of users hope for better integration across tools.

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