Coworking is still a relatively young industry. Since its early days, it has largely catered to millennials for an alternative to traditional offices. Now, a new generation is entering the workforce. As Gen Z transitions from education into full-time work, coworking spaces are in a strong position to welcome them.
That is because many of the foundations of coworking already reflect Gen Z’s expectations of work. Values like inclusion, autonomy, community, and purpose are not trends for this generation, they are baseline requirements. For coworking owners and operators, this creates a clear opportunity to adapt intentionally rather than reactively.
What Values Matter Most to Gen Z at Work?
Gen Z tends to evaluate workplaces through a values-first lens. They are more likely than previous generations to expect spaces to actively support inclusion, equity, and psychological safety, not just productivity.
One key area is accessibility and neurodiversity. Gen Z is more open about different ways of thinking, working, and processing information. Coworking spaces that acknowledge this are better positioned to meet their needs. In Cobot’s guide on creating neurodivergent-friendly coworking spaces, the focus is on practical steps like offering quiet zones, reducing sensory overload, and providing clear structure in shared environments. These changes benefit all members, not just neurodivergent ones.
Equity and representation also play a central role. Gen Z pays attention to who is visible in leadership, programming, and community storytelling. As discussed in Cobot’s conversation on gender equality in coworking with Liz Elam, inclusive policies are not abstract ideals. They directly shape how safe and supported people feel in a space day to day.
The same applies to authentic LGBTQ+ support. Gen Z is quick to distinguish between performative gestures and real commitment. Coworking spaces that actively build queer-supportive policies, language, and community practices tend to earn deeper trust. Cobot’s article on queer-supportive coworking spaces highlights how visible signals, combined with clear standards of behavior, help members feel comfortable bringing their full selves to work.
For coworking operators, living up to these values is less about marketing language and more about consistency. Community guidelines, conflict resolution, accessibility, and everyday communication all matter.
What Does Gen Z Look for in a Coworking Space?
Beyond shared values, Gen Z also has clear preferences when it comes to how coworking spaces operate.
Insights from a recent episode of This Week in Coworking on Gen Z and coworking point to several recurring themes:
Gen Z expects flexibility without friction. Simple onboarding, transparent pricing, and clear rules matter. Long contracts or complicated access systems can quickly become a reason to look elsewhere.
They also value community, but on their own terms. Gen Z often prefers informal, opt-in connections over structured networking events. Casual gatherings, shared rituals, and digital community spaces tend to resonate more than forced introductions.
Another strong preference is for digital-first experiences. Booking rooms, accessing the space, managing memberships, and communicating with the team should feel intuitive. Spaces that rely heavily on manual processes or unclear workflows often feel outdated to younger members.
Finally, Gen Z is drawn to purpose-driven environments. Many want to understand why a space exists beyond offering desks and Wi-Fi. Coworking spaces with a clear mission, whether focused on sustainability, creative work, or local impact, tend to stand out.
For coworking owners, this reinforces the value of automation and clear systems. When operational tasks take less time, there is more room to focus on community, which is exactly where Gen Z places importance.
What Coworking Operators Can Do Next
Gen Z is not asking coworking spaces to reinvent themselves. In many ways, they are asking coworking to fully live up to its original promise. Inclusive communities, flexible work models, and trust-based environments are not new ideas in coworking, but they are becoming non-negotiable.
As a coworking operator, adapting to Gen Z means making your values visible, your systems seamless, and your community genuinely welcoming. Spaces that do this well will not only attract younger members, they will also build stronger, more resilient communities overall.
Coworking and Gen Z
Why is Gen Z important for coworking spaces?
Gen Z is entering the workforce at scale. With remote and hybrid work remaining common, coworking spaces are a natural alternative to traditional offices.
Do Gen Z workers prefer coworking over offices?
Many do, especially when coworking spaces offer flexibility, inclusive culture, and strong digital experiences. However, choice and autonomy remain key.
How can coworking spaces feel more inclusive for Gen Z?
Clear community guidelines, accessible design, visible support for diversity, and respectful communication all contribute to a stronger sense of belonging.
Is technology a deciding factor for Gen Z members?
Yes. Seamless digital tools for access, booking, and communication are often expected rather than seen as optional extras.