The Church Number: From 137 to 60 The Shrinking Median Church in America (2000–2023)
Nov 3, 2025
The podcast highlights a striking trend: the median church attendance in America has plummeted from 137 in 2000 to just 60 by 2023. Delving into the implications, the hosts discuss what this means for church leadership and community engagement. They analyze factors contributing to this decline, including attendance drops and fewer megachurches, while also painting a vivid picture of what a typical 60-person church looks like today. Resources for revitalization efforts are shared, along with insights into the future of congregations.
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Megachurch Numbers Fall, But Attendance Concentrates
Megachurch count has declined since its peak around 2010–2012 while the largest churches still attract a disproportionate share of attendees.
The era of the megachurch is waning as demographics and attendance patterns shift.
insights INSIGHT
Pandemic Accelerated Existing Declines
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated preexisting declines in church attendance and sped up other trends.
Pandemic effects acted as an accelerant rather than creating wholly new trends.
insights INSIGHT
Resource Limits Define Median Churches
Typical median churches operate with tight finances, heavy volunteer reliance, and limited paid staff.
These resource constraints shape what ministries and strategies are realistic.
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Since 2000, one of the most reliable sources of data on congregations in America has been the Faith Communities Today study, often referred to as FACT. It’s been conducted every five years, with the most recent survey in 2023 representing tens of thousands of congregations across every major faith tradition.
The FACT research gives us a clear picture of what the ‘typical’ church looks like over time. And here’s one of the most striking trends: in 2000, the median church in America had 137 people in attendance at weekly worship services. By 2023, that number had dropped to just 60. Today, Sam and Thom will talk about what that shift means for pastors, leaders, and the future of congregations.
The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
A sustainable way to launch groups
An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
An opportunity to change the culture of your church
Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.
Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach
Offer a 5K Challenge for adults at your church (engage your adults in 2026): Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:
Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
A fully customizable program that fits your church’s timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.
Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
Upward Sports is ready to help you start this at your church: Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!
Rainer on Leadership 
