Majority of Americans Anxious About AI, Pew Survey Finds
A survey by the Pew Research Center, carried out from June 22-28, 2026, involving 3,488 adults in the U.S., indicates that 52% of Americans are more worried than enthusiastic about AI, an increase from 37% in 2021. This rising concern spans all age groups, with 55% of those under 30 expressing heightened apprehension—marking a first for this age bracket. Only 9% report feeling more excited than worried, while 37% are neutral. Furthermore, 71% predict that AI will result in fewer jobs in the U.S. over the next 20 years, a rise from 64% in 2024. Among younger adults, 73% anticipate job losses, increasing from 61%. This survey underscores the skepticism of young adults regarding AI's effects on society.
Key facts
- 52% of Americans are more concerned than excited about AI, up from 37% in 2021.
- Survey conducted June 22-28, 2026, by Pew Research Center among 3,488 U.S. adults.
- 55% of adults under 30 are more concerned than excited, a first for this group.
- 71% of adults think AI will lead to fewer jobs in the U.S. over the next two decades, up from 64% in 2024.
- Only 5% of Americans think AI will lead to more jobs.
- 73% of adults under 30 foresee job loss from AI, up from 61% two years ago.
- Excitement about AI has dropped across all age groups since 2021.
- Young adults are most likely to think AI will be bad for society and for them personally.
Entities
Institutions
- Pew Research Center
Locations
- United States