Generation Z is identifying as religious at higher rates than older generations, according to new Harris Poll data that also found widespread concerns about artificial intelligence and the rapid expansion of data centers.

Thirty-three percent of Gen Z respondents identified as religious, compared with 18% of baby boomers, 22% of Generation X and 19% of millennials. Just 19% of Gen Z said they were neither religious nor spiritual, the lowest share among the generations surveyed.

The findings come as young Americans increasingly seek community outside the digital world. Fifty-seven percent of Gen Z respondents said they had turned to spirituality or manifestation practices to feel more in control of their future, while 60% said they belonged to more in-person communities than before. Seventy percent said they wanted to join more.

Libby Rodney, chief strategy officer at The Harris Poll, said the interest in religion and resistance to data centers may reflect a broader desire for greater control over people's lives and communities.

Opposition to data centers has expanded nationwide as facilities are built to support the computing demands of artificial intelligence. Data Center Watch estimates that more than $228 billion in projects have been blocked or delayed since the beginning of 2025, with more than 500 localities in 39 states adopting bans, moratoriums or other restrictions.

A March Gallup poll found that seven in 10 Americans opposed having a data center built near where they live. New York, Pennsylvania and Texas have also adopted restrictions on certain data center projects.

The Harris Poll found that 73% of Americans did not want AI imposed on their communities, while 68% said the technology could be useful but "feels forced."

Economic concerns are also weighing on Gen Z. Seventy percent said the future they were promised had not materialized, while 61% said they had skipped medical care because of the cost.

Separate Harris Poll research found a sharp divide over AI's economic benefits, with 68% of business leaders expecting to be better off financially in five years because of the technology, compared with 27% of workers.

The survey also found that 70% of Gen Z respondents had sought help or leaned on others during the past year, the highest percentage among the generations surveyed.