Among Black teens, 50% say they'll attend a four-year college (not significantly different from White or Hispanic teens). In turn, Pew Research Center Anticipated Youth Mental Health Trends in 2026

Today's 18-year-olds are facing a unique set of "2026-specific" hurdles:

It’s a period of intense questioning regarding work, values, and love. Modern Pressures and Challenges

With rising living costs and home prices, many 18-year-olds are starting their adult lives feeling that traditional milestones, like homeownership, are out of reach .

Constant connectivity through platforms like TikTok and Instagram fosters a nonstop cycle of comparison to idealized peer lives and influencers.

Despite these challenges, there is a strong current of resilience. Many 18-year-olds find hope in: Teens' future plans and goals | Pew Research Center