Washington, Sept 6, 2025 | A new Gallup poll reveals a striking generational shift in sexual identity: nearly 31% of American women aged 18–28 now identify as LGBTQ.
This marks the highest percentage ever recorded in U.S. polling history, underscoring how Gen Z is reshaping cultural norms around gender and sexuality.
What does the Gallup poll say?
According to Gallup’s February 2025 survey, 9.3% of all U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ. However, the numbers spike dramatically among younger generations:
- 31% of Gen Z women (ages 18–28) identify as LGBTQ
- 20% of Gen Z overall
- 12% of Gen Z men
The most common identity within the LGBTQ spectrum is bisexual, followed by gay, lesbian, transgender, and other identities such as pansexual or queer.
Why are the numbers rising?
Experts cite several factors:
- Greater social acceptance and visibility of LGBTQ identities
- Expanded definitions of sexuality and gender
- Younger generations using identity terms more fluidly and descriptively
As Robyn Ochs, a sexuality educator, explains:
“It’s a whole different way of being. Identity words are now used more as adjectives than fixed labels.”
Gallup's new poll, released earlier this month, reveals Republican support for same-sex marriage has dropped 14pts from its high of 55% in 2022.
However, very little change among independents, and Democrats are at their record high level of support. 68% approval overall. pic.twitter.com/8U4z5Hjcac
— Hunter📈🌈📊 (@StatisticUrban) August 25, 2025
What does this mean for society?
The rise in LGBTQ identification is influencing everything from media representation to healthcare policy. Brands, educators, and lawmakers are increasingly adapting to a more inclusive and fluid understanding of identity.
Meanwhile, the data also shows a political divide, with LGBTQ identification more common among Democrats, urban residents, and women.
The Gallup poll confirms what many have observed anecdotally: Gen Z is redefining identity in ways that challenge traditional norms.
With nearly one-third of young women identifying as LGBTQ, the question now is—how will institutions evolve to reflect this new reality?
