Young men in the U. S. are finding more meaning in religion than ever before

Recent data shows a surprising shift among young men in America. More are saying religion plays a big role in their lives than young women—a rare reversal in the past 25 years. In 2024, 42% of men aged 18-29 called religion "very important, " up from just 28% two years earlier. Meanwhile, young women’s interest stayed flat around 30%. This gap wasn’t always this way. Back in the early 2000s, young women were far more religious than young men. Now, their views are on equal footing—or even leaning the other way. The change isn’t spread evenly. It’s mostly happening with young Republicans. Church attendance rose for young men and women leaning right, while staying mostly flat for those on the left. About 60% of young Republican women go to services at least once a month, compared to just a quarter of young Democratic women. Some experts call this a major shift in society. For example, political scientist Ryan Burge says it could reshape how families pass down faith. He suggests young men see religion as a place where they feel accepted, especially in a world that often ignores their concerns.On social issues, young men also stand apart. More of them see divorce, abortion, and homosexuality as morally wrong compared to young women. Only about a third of women under 30 feel the same way about abortion, while half of men in that group do. These differences echo bigger divides in politics and culture. Meanwhile, young women are moving further left on issues like abortion and LGBTQ rights, further distancing themselves from traditional religious views. Despite these trends, not all young women are rejecting faith. Some still find comfort in structured religions. One rabbi in Los Angeles noted her synagogue has grown steadily since the pandemic and recent global conflicts. She ties the appeal to people craving connection in tough times. "Faith offers belonging, " she says. "It’s a light in a dark, polarized world. " Her experience suggests religion still has a role, even as overall interest declines. Experts also point out that church attendance itself hasn’t changed much for men—just their stated belief in religion’s importance. Rural areas and conservative regions see more young men embracing faith than urban or liberal areas. Still, the poll shows the decline in American religiosity may be slowing, especially among the young.