More young adults are prioritizing sleep over nightlife: Study

(NewsNation) — Young adults are trading late-night partying for early bedtime routines, signaling a growing awareness of the vital link between sleep and health, The Wall Street Journal reported.

According to a recent analysis by RentCafe, individuals aged 18 to 35 are now prioritizing their shut-eye, reporting an average of nine hours and 28 minutes of sleep in 2022 — a notable 8% increase from the eight hours and 47 minutes reported in 2010. This trend contrasts with smaller increases observed in those in their 30s and 40s.

The change is not confined to the personal sphere, as businesses adapt to the evolving preferences of their clientele. Bars, once synonymous with nocturnal activities, are now incorporating matinee dance parties and daytime events to cater to the shifting lifestyle choices of the younger demographic.

A study of Sleep Number smart-bed customers reveals that bedtime habits are also changing. On average, individuals 18 to 34 went to bed at 10:06 p.m. in January, compared to 10:18 p.m. the previous year, highlighting a gradual shift toward earlier bedtimes, WSJ reported.

This transformation is reflected in the restaurant industry, as well. Yelp reservations indicate a significant uptick in early dinner seatings, with reservations between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. comprising 31% of bookings, a substantial increase from 19% in 2017. Simultaneously, reservations between 6 p.m. and midnight have experienced a corresponding decline.

Even in the city that never sleeps, such as New York City, bars are experimenting with innovative approaches, introducing early dance parties to accommodate those who prefer to hit the dance floor during daylight hours.