The article presents the results of a comprehensive sociological study of the Yaroslavl youth movements, associations, as well as informal groups and their participation in the life of the city. 500 Yaroslavl citizens aged 14 to 35 were interviewed. The level of awareness of Yaroslavl youth about youth organizations, movements and movements, including operating in the city, the degree of involvement of young citizens in these organizations was assessed. Modern youth is poorly absorbing the difference between formalized public youth organizations and informal youth groups. Yaroslavl youth is rather apolitical. In the youth sector, military-patriotic and volunteer trends are developed and popular. Organizations of this orientation have a high recognition rating. If we compare formal and informal youth groups, then the Yaroslavl youth is most informed about the latter. Almost 60% of youth organizations and movements, according to their members, take part in the public life of the city. Most often, such participation is limited to involvement in citywide events, holidays and promotions (32%), as well as in the creation of performances that affect the urban environment and public life (30%). Potentially, one can try to attract from 70 to 84% of participants in youth associations of Yaroslavl to socially significant activities. The main points of application of their labor for the benefit of the city, youth sees social labor, creative, search and rescue and scientific activities.