Which generation are you? The new generation born in 2025 – everything you need to know

A new generation is set to emerge in 2025, as Generation Alpha makes way for the arrival of Generation Beta. A blog post by social researcher and futurist Mark McCrindle — credited with defining the last two generational labels — Generation Beta will begin in 2025 and include all births until 2039. While generational definitions shouldn’t be taken too literally, as there are always exceptions, they can be useful in identifying broad societal trends.

People are shaped by more than just their birth year. However, those born around the same time, often experience the same major events — whether periods of crisis, such as wars and the Covid-19 pandemic, or times of prosperity, including economic booms. These shared experiences create generational trends that not only shape society but can also lead to generational divides. Here’s a closer look at some of today’s key generations, from Beta to millennials.

The arrival of Generation Beta marks the end of Generation Alpha, which includes those born between 2010 and 2024. Mark McCrindle predicts that by 2035, 16 per cent of the world's population will belong to Generation Beta, many of whom will live to see the 22nd century. He explained that he chose Gen Alpha and Gen Beta to signify a shift to the Greek alphabet. This represents a major generational change — particularly regarding technological advancements and the world this new generation will grow up in.

In addition to being the first generation to grow up in a world where artificial intelligence is fully integrated into daily life, Generation Beta will also be raised by parents who have used technology as a key part of their upbringing and parenting. However, they will also inherit significant societal challenges. “With climate change, global population shifts, and rapid urbanisation at the forefront, sustainability will not just be a preference but an expectation," McCrindle said. "This generation will be raised by Millennial and older Gen Z parents, many of whom prioritise adaptability, equality, and eco-consciousness in their parenting.”.

The oldest among Genz Z are approaching their 30s, while millennials are beyond their hapless early 20s stereotype. Meanwhile, Gen X — the so-called slacker generation — is edging closer to retirement. Here’s everything you need to know about boomers, Gen Z, and new generations’ futures. Grouping people by age is not new, with a fresh cohort typically defined every 25 years in the Western world. The first group to be given a name was the Lost Generation, born between 1883 and 1900, many of whom fought in the First World War.

Gen Z (or Gen Zedders) were born between 1997, when Tony Blair came to power in the UK, and 2012, when London hosted the Olympics. Many members of Gen Z are children of previous generations, such as Baby Boomers (born 1948 to 1964) or Generation X (born 1965 to 1980). Unlike their predecessors, Gen Zers have grown up in a world where the internet is ubiquitous. They are often called"digital natives," having never known a time without widespread access to digital technology. Alongside this, they live in a time when physical and mental health are better understood and more openly discussed.

Early studies suggest that Gen Z has lower rates of teen pregnancy and alcohol consumption compared with previous generations. They also tend to be better at delaying gratification and making more measured decisions than older cohorts. However, despite these positive trends, Gen Z faces significant economic challenges. They are less likely to afford homeownership than their predecessors, with rising property prices and economic uncertainty creating barriers to financial independence.

Additionally, constant exposure to digital technology has been linked to positive and negative outcomes. While they are highly connected and tech-savvy, some studies suggest that the pressure to maintain an online presence can contribute to mental health struggles, particularly anxiety and depression. In summary, Gen Z is a generation shaped by rapid technological advancement, increased access to healthcare, and a more connected, yet often economically uncertain, world.

While some may argue that naming Gen Z with the last letter of the alphabet doesn’t inspire much hope for what comes next for humanity, it turns out we go right back to the beginning. Coined in 2008, Generation Alpha refers to children born from 2013 onwards. This group has no set end date yet, so a baby born in 2023 would also be considered an Alpha. The Covid-19 pandemic could have the most significant impact on this generation’s development. Additionally, Gen Alpha may face the consequences of recent increases in screen time and obesity.