TL;DR: Generation Z years are 1997–2012 in the most-used definition. Before them came Millennials (1981–1996); after them comes Gen Alpha (about 2013–2024/25).
Quick generation chart
| Generation | Birth years |
|---|---|
| Gen X | 1965–1980 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) | 1981–1996 |
| Gen Z | 1997–2012 |
| Gen Alpha | about 2013–2024/25 |
| Gen Beta | about 2025 onward |
Full chart back to the Silent Generation: Generations by Year: Complete Generation Chart.
Early vs late Gen Z
- Early Gen Z (1997–2004): remember flip phones and early YouTube; entered the job market around the pandemic.
- Late Gen Z (2005–2012): grew up with Instagram, TikTok and online classes; AI tools arrived during their school years.
Is there a “Zillennial” year?
Roughly 1995–1997. Zillennials share Millennial nostalgia and Gen Z internet habits.
FAQs
Is 1997 Gen Z?
Yes, by Pew’s definition it’s the first Gen Z year.
Why do websites show different Gen Z years?
Different researchers use different cut-offs. See What Years Are Gen Z? Gen Z Birth Years Explained.
