X Maintains User Base in US Amidst Rising Social Media Rivals

The social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, is demonstrating resilience in the U.S. market, maintaining a user base of approximately 21 percent of American adults. This figure, reported in the latest survey by the Pew Research Center, reflects only a slight decline from 22 percent in early 2023, shortly after Elon Musk took ownership of the platform. The usage rate is nearly consistent with the 23 percent recorded in 2021 prior to its rebranding, indicating a degree of stability amidst the rapid evolution of social media platforms.

User habits appear to be more enduring than anticipated. The social media landscape is known for its swift changes, with new entrants continually vying for attention. Despite this, X remains a dominant force in the realm of real-time, text-based updates, significantly outpacing emerging competitors such as Threads, with a user share of 8 percent, and Bluesky, which holds just 4 percent of the adult market.

Current Landscape of Social Media Usage

While X retains its niche, it does not rank among the most popular social platforms in the U.S. The latest data reveals that video-centric platforms and broad social networks continue to dominate. Leading the pack is YouTube, with a substantial 84 percent of U.S. adults indicating usage, followed by Facebook at 71 percent and Instagram at 50 percent.

Another platform, TikTok, has seen impressive growth, rising to 37 percent of adults from just 21 percent in 2021. WhatsApp has also gained traction, now reaching 32 percent of adults. The findings highlight a clear trend: while X maintains a dedicated user base, it faces stiff competition from platforms that cater to different content preferences and demographic groups.

Notably, X is experiencing a decrease in users aged 18 to 29. This demographic is crucial, as it often influences long-term trends in social media usage. Although X is still a prominent venue for political discourse and breaking news—57 percent of its users report obtaining news from the platform—its appeal among younger audiences is waning.

Insights on User Engagement and Retention

Since its ownership change in October 2022 and subsequent rebranding, X has undergone various policy and content adjustments. These shifts have led some users to explore alternative platforms. However, the latest Pew data suggests that X remains the primary destination for users seeking real-time, short-form updates.

According to the survey of over 5,000 U.S. adults, Threads captures only 8 percent of adults, while Bluesky reaches merely 4 percent. Even Truth Social has a smaller footprint at 3 percent. These statistics indicate that despite the emergence of new contenders, X continues to hold onto a core group of users who prefer its established format and functionalities.

Even with challenges in attracting younger users, X’s role as a news source remains significant. The platform’s ability to deliver up-to-the-minute information and facilitate discussions around current events underscores its continued relevance in the social media ecosystem.

As the social media landscape continues to evolve, X’s relatively stable user numbers suggest that it has carved out a niche that resonates with many users. Whether due to user familiarity, convenience, or the immediacy of information, X retains a community that values its offerings despite the influx of alternatives.