Many people think Gen Z wants to work from home forever. But the newest research shows a more interesting picture. In Gallup’s May 2025 U.S. findings, only 23% of Gen Z workers in jobs that can be done remotely said they wanted fully remote work. That was lower than every older generation, where 35% preferred fully remote work. At the same time, fully on-site work was still the least popular choice for all age groups. So Gen Z is not asking for five days in the office every week. Instead, many young workers seem to want a middle path: hybrid work, with both flexibility and real human contact. (gallup.com)

One big reason may be loneliness. Gallup says Gen Z is the loneliest generation at work, and Axios reported in February 2026 that 27% of Gen Z workers said they had felt lonely “a lot” the previous day, based on Gallup data. Gallup also notes that younger workers often have not yet built strong workplace relationships, so remote work can feel harder for them than it does for older workers. For someone at the start of a career, the office is not only a place for meetings. It can also be a place to learn, ask quick questions, make friends, and feel part of a team. (gallup.com)

Other surveys show the same trend. In an FTI Consulting survey released on February 25, 2025, 42% of Gen Z respondents said they would feel excited about a possible return-to-office rule, and another 33% said they would be accepting. In Freeman’s 2025 Gen Z Report, 91% said it would be nice to have a balance between virtual and in-person chances to connect, and 84% said face-to-face settings are best for building strong business relationships. The message is clear: Gen Z does not simply want “home” or “office.” Many want work that gives them freedom, but also connection. (fticonsulting.com)