Faith on the Decline: The Changing Religious Landscape of America

The American religious landscape is experiencing a rapid and substantial transformation.

Rising Unaffiliation

• 2024: Nearly 28% of Americans identify as religiously unaffiliated.
• 2013: Only 16% identified as such.

Declining Church Attendance

• By the end of 2024, approximately 15,000 churches are expected to close.
• The trend is particularly pronounced among those under the age of 29.

Generational Shift

• Gen Z is leading this change.
• Gen Z women are increasingly distancing themselves from religious institutions.

Political Implications

• Churches have historically been key for political outreach and voter mobilization.
• The Republican Party, with a strong base of white Christians, may face challenges.
• The Democratic Party is more religiously diverse, with a significant portion of its base being religiously unaffiliated.

Surprising Trends

• Despite the decline in affiliation, Bible sales are increasing.
• Only half of Americans believe that religion plays an important role in their lives.