12/20: At What Age Should Children Have Cell Phones?

If the youngster in your life is begging you for a cell phone this holiday season, try this one on for size.  The average age Americans believe is appropriate for a child to acquire his or her first cell phone is approximately 14 years old.

©istockphoto.com/manley099

©istockphoto.com/manley099

Regardless of age, region, gender, or whether one has children or not, there is consensus on this question.

A plurality of U.S. adults — 43% — think 15 to 18 years old is the appropriate age for a child to begin carrying a cell phone.

Table: Age of First Cell Phone (Average)
Table: Age of First Cell Phone

Marist Poll Methodology