Fewer Americans See Religion as Central to Daily Life
A new Gallup poll reveals that only 49% of U.S. adults consider religion important in their daily lives. This marks a steep 17-point drop since 2015 and places the U.S. among the countries with the sharpest global declines. Gallup notes such rapid changes are rare, with only 14 of over 160 nations seeing similar shifts in the past decade.
Falling in Line with Global Trends
The United States, once a standout among wealthy nations for its religiosity, is converging with its economic peers. The median among OECD countries stands at 36%. Gallup researchers observe that the U.S. now occupies a unique position — less religious than much of the world but more devout than other wealthy nations.
Churches Closing, Christian Identity Shrinking
In 2025, an estimated 15,000 U.S. churches are expected to close, far surpassing the number of new openings. At the same time, the number of religiously unaffiliated Americans has reached a record 29%. Pew Research shows only 62% now identify as Christians, compared to 78% in 2007.
Impact on Politics and Public Life
Despite declining religiosity, religion continues to be influential in American politics and society. President Donald Trump secured 85% of the white evangelical vote and a majority among white Protestants in the 2024 election. Faith-based institutions continue to wield power in philanthropy and social networks.
Generational Change Accelerating the Shift
Gen Z women are leading the movement away from organized religion, according to PRRI. CEO Melissa Deckman highlights a lack of evidence that Gen Z men are returning to church in significant numbers. This generational trend suggests a long-term decline in religious affiliation.
National Identity in Flux
The U.S. no longer fits global patterns of belief. It now has a mixed religious identity—Christian in heritage but secular in daily practice. Gallup characterizes this as part of a broader, global redefinition of faith’s role in modern life.
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U.S. faith levels plummet to lowest on record
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