Top Social Media Trends for 2024 [Latest Data]

Curious about whether Facebook still dominates the social media landscape or if TikTok is more than just a Gen Z sensation? The digital world is constantly evolving, and new platforms are emerging. Discover “The Fastest Growing Social Media Platforms of 2024” and get the latest insights from our new data.

If you’re keen to know the social media trends for 2024, you’re in the right place. From survey data gathered from over 700 U.S. adults in May 2023 and January 2024, we have compiled a detailed analysis of which social media platforms are on the rise and which are experiencing a decline.

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The Evolution of Social Media Usage in 2023 and 2024

In 2024, 87% of U.S. adults still engage in social media. But which platforms are capturing their attention the most?

Top platforms in the U.S. for 2024:

• Facebook (71%), YouTube (61%), and Instagram (42%) lead the pack.
• Lemon8 (+200%), Tumblr (+20%), and TikTok (+9%) saw the greatest growth since 2023.
• Reddit (decline by 28%), X/Twitter (decline by 23%), and LinkedIn (decline by 22%) saw the most significant drops in user numbers.
• Facebook is the platform of choice for those over 28, whereas Gen Z gravitates toward TikTok.

Interestingly, social media marketers in 2023 forecasted that Instagram would lead in growth, followed by TikTok and Facebook. Yet, these predictions did not completely align with actual consumer usage, as TikTok saw the highest increase in daily active users.

The Fastest Growing Social Media Platforms of 2024

1. Lemon8

Lemon8, the photo-sharing app owned by ByteDance, achieved a 200% year-over-year growth. This Instagram-Pinterest hybrid has captivated audiences with its emphasis on user-generated content.

Why is Lemon8 thriving in the U.S. market? The platform excels in authentic, relatable content, resonating with users seeking inspiration and community engagement without the heavy brand influence seen in other apps.

For brands, this platform offers untapped potential. By securing your handle and exploring trending topics within your niche, you can build connections through organic content and influencer partnerships.

2. Tumblr

Tumblr is still going strong with an 8% growth since 2023. Leveraging its community-centric nature, the platform thrives on user interests and content personalization. Many users flock to Tumblr for entertainment and to stay updated on cultural trends.

Why has Tumblr remained relevant for 17 years? Its focus on niche interests allows users to find like-minded communities, offering a sense of belonging rarely found on other platforms. The platform’s freedom of expression and fandom-centric environment contribute to its longevity.

3. TikTok

Despite regulatory challenges, TikTok continues to grow, achieving a 20% year-over-year increase. Notably, it’s not just Gen Z; older generations are also engaging, with Boomers showing a 60% growth.

Short-form video content remains highly popular, and TikTok’s focus on this medium has allowed it to thrive. As more users engage in social shopping, TikTok stands out, being the second-most likely app for making purchases in the past three months.

If you’re considering joining TikTok, now is a good time. The platform offers significant ROI for marketers who invest in short-form video content. For more about TikTok marketing, explore our comprehensive guide.

4. Facebook

Turning 20 in 2024, Facebook remains the most popular social network globally. Despite privacy concerns, its usage has grown by 4% year-over-year. With a vast and diverse user base, Facebook continues to be the go-to for older demographics, making it a cornerstone in the social media landscape.

Social Media Platforms Losing Popularity

BeReal, which showed exponential growth in 2023, saw no change in 2024. Similarly, LinkedIn, X/Twitter, and Twitch experienced significant declines, indicating changing user preferences.

The decline of X/Twitter aligns with Elon Musk’s controversial acquisition. For a deeper dive into the shifts, click here to explore why Reddit, Pinterest, and YouTube might be losing their edge.

More Social Media Insights

Hungry for more insights? Delve into our comprehensive 2024 State of Social Media report, based on a survey of over 1,500 social media marketers. This free resource covers strategies for driving community engagement, sales, and virality.

For more tips and strategies, Click Here for More Marketing tips and strategies.