The share of people who report having no close friends has risen, particularly among those who did not graduate college — creating a divide in people’s levels of social connection.

The share of people who report having no close friends has risen, particularly among those who did not graduate college — creating a divide in people’s levels of social connection.

The Summary

  • In a survey, nearly a quarter of U.S. adults without a college degree said they had no close friends.
  • People without a college degree also reported less participation in social activities like going to parks or restaurants than college-educated adults.
  • The findings come amid a documented rise in loneliness and social isolation.