REPORT
Social Connection in the Modern World
Insights from the U.S. Census Household Pulse Survey
Sunny’s latest report, Social Connection in the Modern World, uncovers powerful insights from the 2024 U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey. Our custom analysis and data visualization from this unprecedented data set shed light on the realities of loneliness and isolation in America today—offering valuable insights and clear priorities for building a more connected world.
Key insights include:
- Loneliness affects over 40% of Americans—with nearly 60% of young adults (18-29) and lower-income groups impacted.
- Middle-aged adults face a critical lack of social support, a group that is often juggling work, family, and caregiving responsibilities.
- Workplace connection goes beyond location. Returning to the office isn’t addressing loneliness, revealing the complexity of fostering connection at work.
Why Sunny is sharing this report
At Sunny, we believe knowledge drives change. By offering this report for free, we aim to empower individuals, employers, and communities to better understand the social connection crisis—and take meaningful action to address it.
Sunny’s commitment doesn’t stop here. From our free app launching in 2025 to innovative workplace solutions coming in 2026, we’re dedicated to making meaningful connection accessible for all.
Join the Conversation
We invite researchers, policymakers, and organizations to use this report to spark dialogue, drive solutions, and help create a more connected future.
About the authors
Heather Liu Leary, PhD
Heather Liu Leary, PhD, is an expert in data design, analysis, and visualization. She did her graduate studies at Yale, building mathematical models for brain images, and her career spans leadership in biotech as former Director of Business Development at Applied BioMath, coaching High-Intensity Pilates, and consulting in small business analytics.
Steven Crane, MS
Steven Crane, MS, is Head of Social Connection Science at Sunny, Head of the Social Engagement Pillar with Stanford Lifestyle Medicine, Researcher at Stanford University, and Founder of Synaptic Insights Consulting. His current research and innovation work in these roles is focused on how to help people change behavior to cultivate meaningful social relationships.
