As of 2010, Christianity was the religion with the most followers worldwide, followed by Islam (Muslims) and Hinduism. In the forty years between 2010 and 2050, it is projected that the landscape of world religions will undergo some noticeable changes, with the number of Muslims almost catching up to Christians. The changes in population sizes of each religious group is largely dependent on demographic development, for example, the rise in the world's Christian population will largely be driven by population growth in Sub-Saharan Africa, while Muslim populations will rise across various regions of Africa and South Asia. As India's population is set to grow while China's goes into decline, this will be reflected in the fact that Hindus will outnumber the unaffiliated by 2050. In fact, India may be home to both the largest Hindu and Muslim populations in the world by the middle of this century.

From 2022 to 2060, the worldwide population of Muslims is expected to increase by **** percent. For the same period, the global population of Buddhists is expected to decrease by **** percent.

In 2020, around 28.8 percent of the global population were identified as Christian. Around 25.6 percent of the global population identify as Muslims, followed by 14.9 percent of global populations as Hindu. The number of Muslims increased by 347 million, when compared to 2010 data, more than all other religions combined.

This study, designed and carried out by the "http://www.asarb.org/" Target="_blank">Association of Statisticians of American Religious Bodies (ASARB), compiled data on 372 religious bodies by county in the United States. Of these, the ASARB was able to gather data on congregations and adherents for 217 religious bodies and on congregations only for 155. Participating bodies included 354 Christian denominations, associations, or communions (including Latter-day Saints, Messianic Jews, and Unitarian/Universalist groups); counts of Jain, Shinto, Sikh, Tao, Zoroastrian, American Ethical Union, and National Spiritualist Association congregations, and counts of congregations and adherents from Baha'i, three Buddhist groupings, two Hindu groupings, and four Jewish groupings, and Muslims. The 372 groups reported a total of 356,642 congregations with 161,224,088 adherents, comprising 48.6 percent of the total U.S. population of 331,449,281. Membership totals were estimated for some religious groups.

In January 2024, the ARDA added 21 religious tradition (RELTRAD) variables to this dataset. These variables start at variable #8 (TOTCNG_2020). Categories were assigned based on pages 88-94 in the original "https://www.usreligioncensus.org/index.php/node/1638" Target="_blank">2020 U.S. Religion Census Report.

Visit the "https://www.thearda.com/us-religion/sources-for-religious-congregations-membership-data" Target="_blank">frequently asked questions page for more information about the ARDA's religious congregation and membership data sources.

Market Size statistics on the Religious Organizations industry in the US

The Computer Administered Panel Study (CAPS) collected demographic, personality, attitudinal, and other social psychological data from annual samples of University of North Carolina undergraduates from 1983 through 1988. Respondents spent 60 to 90 minutes per week for 20 weeks during the academic year answering questions via computer terminals. In their comparison of demographic and academic variables, researchers found few significant differences between respondents and the general undergraduate population. This dataset contains the Dimensions of Religious Commitment. Additional modules are available for free download through the Odum Institute's electronic archive.

The Dimensions of Religious Commitment is a questionnaire designed to measure the four dimensions of religiosity (Glock and Stark, 1965)--Belief, Ritual, Experience, and Knowledge. Originally, Glock and Stark proposed five dimensions, which include "Consequences" as the fifth dimension. However, the authors did not generate measures for this last dimension. Their analysis of the first four dimensions showed that these dimensions are essentially uncorrelated, and that other attitudes and behavior can be predicted from positions on these dimensions. Furthermore, the authors had constructed indices of the four dimensions, mainly by summing points assigned to each item that was answered in a certain direction. Among these indices, the orthodoxy index was found to be the best predictor of all other aspects of religiosity, implying that belief is the most significant component of religiosity. The entire Glock and Stark questionnaire contained more than 500 items. The interested reader may consult the published analysis.

This table contains 21 series, with data for years 1871 - 1971 (not all combinations necessarily have data for all years). This table contains data described by the following dimensions (Not all combinations are available): Unit of measure (1 items: Persons ...) Geography (1 items: Canada ...) Religious denominations (21 items: Total religious denominations; Baptist; Congregationalist; Anglican ...).

This study of 656 respondents in the Detroit metropolitan area provides information on their religious attitudes and activities, as well as their economic and political attitudes and behavior. Respondents were asked about their belief in God and in life after death, the effects of their religious beliefs on their political beliefs, and the kinds of issues religious leaders should take a public stand on. Several questions probed respondents' views of other religious groups, as well as their attitudes on such issues as gambling, birth control, and the use of alcohol. Other topics covered include: information about respondents' economic behaviors such as saving and purchases on installment plans, respondents' opinions of government take-over of large industries and greater involvement in education and housing, respondents' attitudes toward income-earning work, science, degree of free speech, and racial equity, inter-group images, family and child-rearing patterns, welfare legislation, civil liberties, international relations, legislation on moral issues, doctrinal orthodoxy, devotionalism, and the effects of religion on politics as well as on daily life. Demographic variables specify age, sex, race, education, place of birth, marital status, number of children, length of time at present residence, religion, political party affiliation, income, occupation, original nationality of husband's and wife's family, home ownership, social class identification, and length of residence in the Detroit area.

The landscape of religious organizations has evolved, reflecting broader societal shifts and economic variables. These institutions have adapted to challenges by embracing digital platforms and enhancing community engagement, leveraging technological innovations to maintain spiritual connections. Economic fluctuations have also impacted how people donate, yet organizations have successfully navigated these changes by offering online donation options and fostering community bonds. Diversification in revenue streams and focusing on inclusivity have allowed many groups to maintain positive revenue growth. Cultural dynamics emphasizing equality have prompted many to adopt practices that resonate with contemporary values, further supporting their mission and outreach. Industry-wide revenue is expected to rise at a CAGR of 0.5% over the past five years, including an estimated 2.5% expansion in 2025 and a total of $159.8 billion. Religious entities have demonstrated resilience, with profitability supported by strategic financial management. Wages constitute a substantial part of budgets, particularly for larger organizations, but careful planning ensures funds are allocated efficiently. Religious entities have managed to end fiscal years with budget surpluses, attributed to diligent cost control and donor support. Digital engagement has become a cornerstone for sustaining financial contributions, allowing steady income and reduced dependency on in-person donations. Though shifting economic conditions posed revenue fluctuations, strategic planning and community-centric approaches have driven ongoing resilience and sustainability. The anticipated trajectory for these organizations suggests a continued embrace of innovative outreach and technology to bolster engagement. Organizations will likely enhance efforts to connect with younger demographics, shaping experiences that align with evolving cultural preferences. The expected rise in donations, influenced by demographic changes and economic stability, presents opportunities for expanded programs and community outreach. By staying attuned to societal shifts and integrating technology, religious groups aim to maintain their relevance and engage broader audiences. The future promises growth through diversified funding, engagement strategies targeting younger members and leveraging technological advancements to strengthen spiritual and communal ties. Industry revenue is expected to boost at a CAGR of 1.4% over the next five years, reaching $171.6 billion in 2030.

In 2019, Muslim households had the highest average number of people per household. The average size of Muslim households worldwide was about *** people. Unaffiliated and Jewish households had the smallest average size, at *** people per household.

Time-series dataset of the demographic characteristics of the UK ethnic minority populations and religious groups up to 2006, to study ethnic and religious demographic diversity and its impact upon future population size, age-structure and the ethnic and religious composition of the UK population. This dataset is compiled from various existing data sources: 2001 Census, Labour Force Survey (LFS) and International Passenger Survey (IPS) data. In the absence of vital statistics by ethnic groups, indirect methods were used to estimate vital rates, including the ‘Own Child’ method applied to LFS household data to derive fertility estimates of ethnic and religious groups. Building on previous work, fertility rates of ethnic groups were produced up to 2006, distinguishing between UK-born and foreign-born populations. Migration rates were based on ONS International Migration Statistics (using IPS data), LFS and census data and projected on various assumptions. The results served population projections to mid-century and beyond of the main ethnic minority populations, including mixed populations, and using cohort-component methods. Furthermore, estimates of fertility rates for the major religious (and non-religious) groups were produced.

Datasets include: (1) Calculated fertility estimates for all women aged 15 to 49 in the UK, by 5 years age group, by ethnic group, religion and place of birth (UK/non-UK), based on LFS data; (2) Data on mixed children by ethnic group of the mother; (3) Data on country of birth by ethnic group (all populations); (4) Data on immigration flow by country of origin.

This project aims to analyse ethnic and religious demographic diversity, to investigate the potential for convergence of trends over time and its impact upon future population size, age-structure and the ethnic and religious composition of the UK population.

Existing statistical sources (especially the 2001 Census, the Labour Force Survey (LFS) and the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Longitudinal Survey) will be used to produce time-series of the demographic characteristics of the ethnic minority populations and religious groups up to 2006. In the absence of vital statistics by ethnic groups, the Own Child method applied to LFS and census data will be used to derive fertility estimates of ethnic and religious groups.

The results will serve population projections to mid-century and beyond of the main ethnic minority populations, including mixed populations, and using cohort-component methods. Migration rates will be based on ONS International Migration Statistics, LFS and census data and projected on various assumptions.

Furthermore, estimates of fertility rates and other demographic information for the major religious (and non-religious) groups will be produced with a view to making preliminary projections of their future size. The potential convergence of the demographic characteristics of ethnic and religious groups will be analysed, including mixed unions as an indicator for integration.

Religious beliefs and moral attitudes.

Thopics: perceived change in violence on the streets, bribery, adultery and tax evasion during the last 10 years; justifyability of tax evasion (scale); justifyability of death penality; attitude towards: homosexual adoption, right to commit suicide, men more right for job than women; attitudes towards abortion in different circumstances (scale);
individual or public responsability for pensions; cuts in unemployment benefits; smoking ni public buildings; goals in education of children: indepdendence, obedience, creativity; attitudes towards income differeces; attitudes towards homeless people in neighbourhood; acceptance of nepotism (Kohlberg); Criteria for selecting patients for important surgery in hospitals; attitudes towards euthanasia; rules about good and bad; source of morality (scale); control over life; solving problems: individual vs. society; social orientation; volunteering: religious organizations, non-religious organizations; geographical mobility; residence of best friend; nationality of respondent; nationality of mother; nationality of father; attitudes towards migrants (ethnocentrism); political interest; party preference; least preferred party; reception of political news; concept of god; beliefs about life after death; salvation; conditions of salvation; theodizee (scale); respondent´s religiosity (self-assessment); beliefs influence daily life; beliefs influence important decisions; spiritual life; church attendance; frequency of praying; religious services: birth, marriage, death; conceptions of jesus; conceptions of the bible; dramatic change around millennium; denominational membership; closeness to church; women as priests; conversion experience; church attendance at age 12; transcendental experiences; possession of holy object; power of holy obejct; possession of talisman or lucky charm; power of talisman or lucky charm; consult horoscope; take horoscope into account in daily life; share of friends with different religion; perceived percentage of religious people in country; role of religion in world; attitudes towards: girls cover heads, take soft drugs, prevent blood transfusion, commit suicide; attitudes towards religious groups (enrichement, cause of conflict, other religious teachings, Jehovas witness, scientologist); truth in religion; religious symbols in schools; financial support: religious schools, religions; attitudes towards: oath with reference to God; consult religions in making laws, nurse may refuse legal abortion; attitutes towards science; desired influence of churches on politics; perceived influence of churches on politics;

Demographics: gender; age (year of birth); highest level of education; emloyment status; status of unpaid work; secondary job; marital status; steady life partner; partner´s highest level of education; partner´s religion; partner´s church attendance; number of children; household (number of children +18; 13-17; 5-12; less than 4); net household income; acceptance of cut in income for solidarity with poorest countries; community size; national ranking of community size; history of church membership;

Additionally coded: length of interview; year of interview.

Optional questions (not asked in all countries): importance of freedom; importance of equality; God concerned with every individual; God is valuable in humankind; life has meaning because of a God; sorrows have meaning if beliefs in a God; sorrows receive meaning from yourself; death is natural resting point; death is passage to another life; life has meaning if yourself give meaning; Virgin Mary was taken to heaven; believe in saints; father´s religion at age 12; father attend religious services at age 12; mothers´s religion at age 12; mother attend religious services at age 12; education in religious schools; profession (ISCO); partner´s profession (ISCO), community size (not grouped); pope hinders unity of Christians; religious services: sober; religious services: music and ceremonial clothes; pope should adapt his message; laity involvement; meaning of Christmas; month of interview; father´s highest level of education; mother´s level of education; number of household members

Additional questions in the BELGIAN questionnaire (only substantial questions. No country specific versions of questions from the masterquestionnaire): meaning of marriage in church; homosexuals may marry; light candle when enter church; water from Lourdes at home; pilgrimage; ...

Religious Tourism Market size was valued at USD 1,071 Million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1,704.2 Million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6% from 2026 to 2032.The Religious Tourism Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by a confluence of factors. A rising global interest in spiritual experiences and personal well-being is prompting more individuals to embark on pilgrimages and visit sacred sites . The increasing affordability and accessibility of travel, facilitated by budget airlines and digital booking platforms, have made religious destinations more reachable to a broader demographic . Government initiatives aimed at preserving religious heritage and improving infrastructure further bolster this sector . Additionally, the integration of technology, such as virtual reality tours and mobile applications, enhances the accessibility and appeal of religious sites.

This study, designed and carried out by the Association of Statisticians of American Religious Bodies (ASARB), compiled data on the number of congregations and adherents for 236 religious groups in each county of the United States. Participants included 217 Christian denominations, associations, or communions (including Latter-day Saints, Messianic Jews, and Unitarian/Universalist groups); counts of Jain, Shinto, Sikh, Tao and National Spiritualist Association congregations, and counts of congregations and adherents from Bahá'ís, three Buddhist groupings, four Hindu groupings, four Jewish groupings, Muslims and Zoroastrians. The 236 groups reported a total of 344,894 congregations with 150,686,156 adherents, comprising 48.8 percent of the total U.S. population of 308,745,538 in 2010.

Visit the "/us-religion/sources-for-religious-congregations-membership-data" Target="_blank">frequently asked questions page for more information about the ARDA's religious congregation and membership data.

Population (Number) by Religion, Towns by Size, CensusYear and Sex

View data using web pages

Download .px file (Software required)

This study examined religious identity, religious participation, and well-being of young adults living in the Ann Arbor, MI and Dearborn, MI areas.

The New Zealand Census of Population and Dwellings is the official count of how many people and dwellings there are in New Zealand. It provides a snapshot of our society at a point in time and helps to tell the story of its social and economic change. The 2023 Census, held on Tuesday 7 March, was the 35th New Zealand Census of Population and Dwellings. The first official census was run in 1851, and since 1877 there has been a census every five years, with only four exceptions.

The Computer Administered Panel Study (CAPS) collected demographic, personality, attitudinal, and other social psychological data from annual samples of University of North Carolina undergraduates from 1983 through 1988. Respondents spent 60 to 90 minutes per week for 20 weeks during the academic year answering questions via computer terminals. In their comparison of demographic and academic variables, researchers found few significant differences between respondents and the general undergraduate population. The Dimensions of Religious Commitment is a questionnaire designed to measure four dimensions of religiosity (Glock and Stark, 1965): Belief, Ritual, Experience, and Knowledge. Originally, Glock and Stark proposed five dimensions, which include "Consequences" as the fifth dimension. However, the authors did not generate measures for this last dimension. Their analysis of the first four dimensions showed that these dimensions are essentially uncorrelated, and that other attitudes and behavior can be predicted from positions on these dimensions. Furthermore, the authors had constructed indices of the four dimensions, mainly by summing points assigned to each item that was answered in a certain direction. Among these indices, the orthodoxy index was found to be the best predictor of all other aspects of religiosity, implying that belief is the most significant component of religiosity. The entire Glock and Stark questionnaire contained more than 500 items. The interested reader may consult the published analysis.

Religion adoption varied across residential areas in Tanzania as of 2021. In urban regions, over ** percent of respondents declared being Muslims, while this share stood at nearly ** percent in rural areas. In urban and rural regions, around ** percent and ** percent of the surveyed population, respectively, identified as Christians only. Among Christian religions, Roman Catholic was the most followed - by ** percent of respondents in rural areas and **** percent in urban areas.

Australian religious services have struggled to tap into the country's growing population and facilitate ongoing donations from younger generations. A growing portion of Australians self-identify as non-religious, significantly eroding total activity in this industry. This trend has continued, despite high immigration rates from regions with strong religious adherence. While attendance has risen since pandemic lockdowns, the decline in adherence to most traditional Christian faiths is outstripping growth in adherence to most non-Christian religions. However, a recent surge in migration, coupled with the integration of online services and digital donations, has helped stem this downwards trend. Many donations are coming through online channels, keeping in-person costs lower and allowing religious institutions to grow their funding surpluses. Overall, revenue generated by religious groups is expected to shrink at an annualised 0.9% over the five years through 2025-26, to $4.3 billion. Cost-of-living pressures have weighed on religious donations for much of the period. However, with interest rates dropping, migration climbing and inflation easing, there's renewed optimism for a return to pre-pandemic levels of activity. Still, soaring rental costs continue to put many consumers under financial strain, limiting their ability to contribute to their religious organisation. Declines have been mostly seen among lower and middle-income earners who are struggling to cover rental costs and service their mortgages. Higher income earners are more insulated against changing economic conditions and have largely sustained their donation spending. As these higher income earners account for around 65% of donations, industry revenue has been protected from steeper declines. These trends are expected to contribute to a 1.2% decline in industry revenue in the current year. Despite the nation becoming increasingly secular, growth in household discretionary income, strong net migration and improving consumer sentiment are set to boost donations to religious organisations over the next few years. Even so, falling religious adherence and attendance at religious services will limit revenue growth. This includes Australia's main religious affiliation, with Christians also attending church less frequently on average. Overall, industry revenue is forecast to climb at an annualised 0.8% through the end of 2030-31, to reach $4.5 billion.