San Francisco’s Young Adults Are Reading Scripture More than Their National Peers

San Francisco, known for its progressive culture, has surprised many with new research showing a higher rate of Bible readers in the Bay Area than expected. According to the American Bible Society, some demographics in the region even match or exceed the national average for Bible usage, reflecting a growing spiritual movement across the country.

During the annual convention of the Evangelical Press Association in Branson, Mo., John Plake, the American Bible Society’s chief innovation officer, presented the data on Monday, noting his own surprise at the findings. He sees this as a significant opportunity for impactful ministry in San Francisco and its vicinity.

While the initial data showed 33% of Bay Area residents as Bible users compared to 41% nationally, further analysis revealed interesting generational trends. Bible usage among Gen Z and Millennial residents in the Bay Area surpasses their counterparts nationwide, with even Gen X numbers closely aligned. The data underlines a nationwide increase in Bible engagement, even in regions like the Northeast and West typically less receptive to spiritual matters.

Defined as those engaging with Scripture independently at least three times a year outside of church, Bible users are on the rise across the country, including in the Bay Area. The data also highlights a spiritually open attitude among the younger generations in San Francisco, with more individuals showing curiosity about matters of faith, according to Plake.

Overall, the research suggests a growing interest in the Bible, particularly among the younger population in the Bay Area, signaling a potential shift in spiritual engagement in the region.