Church Revenue Statistics 2024 The Growth Of This Religious Charitable Institution
Page Contents
- Introduction
- Editor’s Choice
- Church Revenue Statistics
- Church Donations Facts
- The Wealth of Religious Institutions
- Methods To Raise Money For Religions
- Faith-Based Business Statistics
- Tithing Statistics
- Catholic Church Giving Statistics
- Methodist Church Revenue Statistics
- Wealthiest Churches Around The World By Net Worth in 2023
- Conclusion
Introduction
In the realm of church revenue statistics, several compelling figures highlight the financial landscape of religious organizations in 2023. A significant insight reveals that religious congregations in the United States command a substantial annual revenue of approximately USD 74.5 billion. This is further accentuated by the fact that faith-based organizations collectively contribute over USD 378 billion annually to the US economy, a figure that rivals some of the largest tech companies combined.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), with its valuation around USD 100 billion to USD 200 billion, stands as the wealthiest church globally. Despite its relatively smaller membership base, its financial assets underscore the substantial economic footprint of religious institutions. On the other side of the spectrum, Scientology garners around USD 500 million annually through various corporations and properties, highlighting the diverse revenue streams that different religious organizations can tap into.
Charitable giving, particularly tithing, forms a crucial component of church revenue. Statistics indicate that around 77% of those who tithe regularly contribute more than 10% of their income, showcasing a deep-rooted tradition of generosity within congregations. However, it's noteworthy that only 17% of Americans engage in regular tithing, suggesting potential areas for growth in religious giving.
The trend towards digitalization in tithing practices is evident with a reported 32% increase in overall donations for churches that offer online tithing options. This shift is indicative of the broader trend in society towards digital payment solutions and represents an important avenue for churches to maintain and potentially increase their donations.
Despite facing challenges such as a notable decrease in cash giving by 6.6% in the recent year, with an annualized decrease of 3.0% over the past three years, churches remain optimistic about their financial futures. The resilience of church plants, which saw a 12.2% increase in cash giving, underscores the dynamic nature of church giving and the potential for growth in certain segments.
Editor’s Choice
- Average One-Time Donation: Churches report an average one-time donation of USD 205.
- Recurring Donations Boost Giving: Churches that encourage recurring donations see donors give 42% more annually than those who give one-time donations.
- Increase in Online Donations: Churches offering online tithing options have seen a 32% increase in overall donations.
- Digital Wallets for Donations: The use of digital wallets like Venmo, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and PayPal is accepted by churches, providing a variety of convenient giving options.
- Monthly and Weekly Giving Patterns: Only 14% of church donors give monthly, and 5% give weekly.
- Religious Volunteering Leads: 34% of volunteers report their volunteer work is for their church or a religious organization, the highest among volunteer types.
- Millennials Returning to Church: Since 2019, there has been an 18% increase in church attendance among Millennials.
- Gen Z's Skepticism and Charity: 72% of Gen Z who don't attend church doubt the existence of God, yet 77% show interest in churches that assist the poor.
- Church Use of Social Media: 85% of churches report their congregation is active on Facebook, with additional usage of Twitter and Instagram to reach members.
- Church Attendance Trends: Post-pandemic, a significant portion of Millennials (45%) and Boomers (65%) primarily attend church in person, with many also engaging in online services.
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Church Revenue Statistics
- 33% of church attendees discovered their church online, highlighting the importance of digital presence for churches.
- Over USD 2.2 billion in church donations were given online, underscoring the continued trend towards digital giving.
- Live streaming services can boost tithing by up to 70%, with some churches growing their attendance by 50% to 195% through online services.
- The average church size varies significantly, from “small churches” averaging 60 worshippers to “super-mega churches” with over 10,000 worshippers every Sunday.
- While 50% of people attended church weekly as children, only 20% do so as adults, showing a decline in regular church attendance.
- 85% of churches report their congregations are active on Facebook, with younger generations more likely to engage with church-related posts on social media.
- The average yearly church donation per person ranges between USD 1,144 and USD 3,432, with the average being USD 2,848 in 2022, which is only about 4.35% of the average household income.
- Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly involved in charitable giving, with 90% of Millennials considering it an essential part of their lives.
- Churches face challenges like the generational handoff, with attendance among Millennials increasing, and are advised to engage younger generations online and through mobile apps.
- Digital culture's deepening roots mean churches need to adapt to new tech tools, with 67% of Christians enjoying virtual services.
- Trust is crucial for donors, with 64% not giving to charities they don't trust. Churches are encouraged to demonstrate financial transparency and accountability.
- Generosity is seen as part of discipleship, with organizations viewing it as such expected to see donations grow.
Church Donations Facts
- Recurring Donations: Adults attending Protestant churches in America donate around USD 17 weekly on average. Regular givers, especially those who donate weekly or monthly, contribute 42% more annually than those who don't give regularly.
- Annual Giving Trends: The least popular month for church donations is February, while December sees the highest giving volume, accounting for 13.80% of annual donations. Interestingly, more than 80% of all giving occurs outside of Sundays, challenging the traditional view of Sunday as the primary day for church contributions.
- Giving Methods: Bank account (ACH) donations average USD 247 per gift, significantly higher than credit card donations at USD 147. Total giving analyzed amounted to USD 335,234,724, with bank account giving constituting 71% of this total.
- Donor Preferences: Only 14% of church donors give monthly, and 5% give weekly. Leveraging technology like QR codes and text-to-give options can facilitate easier access to recurring donation forms, potentially increasing regular donations.
- Catholic Parish Giving: A significant 95% of Catholics report giving money to their parishes, viewing financial contributions as a way to support spiritual growth and parish development. However, transparency in how donations are utilized is a key factor influencing the willingness to give.
- Online Giving Among Catholics: 26% of mass attendees donate online, with a higher prevalence among younger demographics and higher-income households. For example, 36% of Catholic households earning USD 100,000 or more donate online.
The Wealth of Religious Institutions
#1. Christianity is the world's wealthiest religion so far
Although all religions are making big bucks, Christianity remains the richest religion in the world, thanks to the Roman Catholic Church. It is one of the most popular and oldest religions.
#2. The average yearly income of congregations in the United States is USD 242910
As per the church revenue statistics, more than 50% of congregations in the US have been getting money or remaining steady. Whereas fewer than 40% of congregations in the US have withered.
#3. The Catholic Church is valued at $30 billion
With a worth of $30 billion, the Catholic Church remains the world's second wealthiest church. Usually, churches obtain a big chunk of their revenues via donations and tithing. Then they use this money in the stock market and other various businesses.
#4. Churches are getting many donations online as well
Churches have received more than $2.2 billion in donations online within a year.
#5. However, currently, the revenues of more than half of the US Catholic congregations have reduced
Things are not going quite well for the US congregations at the moment. Only 31% of the US congregations are showing growth while 13% of them have remained stable.
#6. The Mainline Protestant congregation is the most declining one in the religion
Around 38% of them are struggling with a downfall.
#7. Jews contribute the highest income by religion in the United States
The latest church revenue statistics show that the wealthiest people are the most educated ones as well. Hence, Jews are the most educated ones. Nearly 44% of them earn more than $100000 per year. Only 24% of Jews in the US earn between $50000 and $99999 annually.
#8. Scientology accounts for around $500 million per year
Multiple corporations and properties of Scientology are the sources of its income. Though it is not the richest religion; however, it receives a huge sum as private donations as well.
#9. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) is the wealthiest church worldwide
Despite having less number of members, the LDS church is by far the richest church in the world. The LDS church is also known as the Mormon Church. As per church revenue statistics, it is valued at $100 billion. However, a whistleblower has revealed that the actual worth of the Mormon Church might be close to $200 billion.
#10. The majority of donations in the US are given to religious organizations
Faith and religious institutions and services get more than twice the donations in the US as compared to the education sector.
#11. Around 29% of charitable gifts are received by faith and religious services in the US.
Methods To Raise Money For Religions
#12. Out of every $4 people in the US donate, $3 is given to religious organizations
Non-religious institutions receive only 27% of the total charity money. The rest of 73% of charity money is divided between religious congregations and religiously recognized institutions.
#13. Robert Duggan is the biggest donor of Scientology in the world
As per church revenue statistics and facts, Robert Duggan donated around $360 million to Scientology in 2016.
#14. Congregations in the US earn a huge amount of money every year
The latest church revenue statistics show that religious congregations in the US get around $74.5 billion per year. Around 17 million American Christians visit the official websites of their church regularly.
#15. Mosques earn money from either governments or patron
Mosques are not usually managed financially by their attendees. They cover their expenses via government grants or receive funding from wealthy patrons.
Faith-Based Business Statistics
#16. Faith-based organizations in the US earn more than $378 billion each year
Church revenue stats indicate that hospitals, food makers, schools, and musicians add more to the US economy as compared to Facebook, Google, and Apple collectively.
#17. Religion and churches get tax exemptions as well
Only if religion and churches show an income flow from an unrelated trade, that trade will be subjected to taxation.
#18. A massive sum of $378 billion in donations is generated from the healthcare system
Various healthcare facilities in the US are governed by religious groups, especially Catholics who appear to most benefit from hospital mergers.
#19. The Islamic finance industry is expected to grow by 10% to 12% in 2022
Islamic banks in countries like Malaysia and Turkey have grown enormously. Their assets grew by 10.6% during the pandemic.
Tithing Statistics
#20. Tithers stand for around 10 to 25% of congregations
The statistics show that around 77% of tithers give away more than 10% of their income to religious congregations. Around 3 to 5% of people who attend and give away donations to churches usually donate via tithing.
(Source: Nonprofits Source)
#21. If each Christian pledges to tithe 10% of their income regularly, faith-based institutions will get an additional $139 billion per year
Church revenue stats reveal that many churchgoers already tithe but it needs to grow even further.
#22. The average weekly donation amount made per churchgoer is $17
This figure makes $73.67 per month and $884 each year. It shows quite impressive growth.
#23. 1.5 out of 247 million Americans tithe in the US
Christian giving stats show that they contribute a sum of more than $25 million in donations to churches per week.
#24. Now these days, Christians are giving only 2.5% of their income, which is much less than the donations made in the past
Christian church charity statistics indicate that 17% of households in the US donate quite less to the local churches as compared to what they used to. The amount of donated money has been reduced by 20% for 7% of regular churchgoers.
#25. Around 70% of tithers decide their donation money based on gross income rather than on net income.
#26. Nearly 75 to 90% of church members do not contribute to tithe funds.
#27. Nearly 70% of Catholics donate around 2 to 5% of their income.
#28. Around 15% of Catholics give away a traditional tithe.
#29. Only 5% of churchgoers give away a traditional tithe.
#30. Women living across North America account for three-quarters of the donors.
Catholic Church Giving Statistics
#31. 26% of Catholics say that acts of service are better than offering financial support
Catholic Church Charity statistics reveal that most devotees prefer economic support to acts of service in terms of donations. 74% of believers who have been surveyed have said that financial aid to churches is better than acts of service.
#32. 95% of Catholics donate money to their parish
A survey of Catholics in the US has shown that around 95% of Catholics have said that they support their parishes economically as a token of appreciation for the guidance they provide for spiritual growth.
#33. The majority of Catholics donate money to their parishes and other charities that are unaffiliated with them.
88% of Catholics have said that they give away donations to their parishes and other charities as well. Only 12% of them offer financial support to their parishes.
(Source: US Catholic)
#34. Most Catholic people believe that fellow parish members should donate more
Around 38% of Catholics think that fewer than half of their parishes donate money to their parish. While most Catholics nearly 84% believe that fellow parish members should make more money donations.
(Source: USCCB)
#35. 26% of people who participate in mass weekly give away money donations online
Online church giving has become quite popular among young believers. Around 22% of young believers in the age range of 16 to 34 years donate money online as compared to 22% of people in the age group of 35 to 64 years.
#36. Online Donation is more prevalent among Catholic households generating a minimum of $60000 each year
Online church giving statistics indicate that families that have more earnings prefer donating more online. Around 36% of Catholic households with an earning of $ 100,000 or more donate money online.
#37. The majority of working-class Catholics donate money to churches online at least 2 to 11 times a year
Around 51% of participants of a survey have said that they donate money online at least 2 to 11 times a year.
#38. Catholics who participate in mass weekly are inclined to donate more money to religious institutions
Church online giving statistics show that 80% of Catholics who attend mass weekly give away more donations to religious institutions.
#39. Young people in the US rarely tithe
Nearly 61% of Christians in the US do not contribute much to churches. Among these people, those who earn fewer than $20000 are eight times more likely to make their contributions to churches as compared to those who earn nearly $75000.
#40. About half of the tithing is generated from cards or electronic payment services.
Nearly 49% of tithers make their donations via cards or electronic payment services. While 40% of tithers donate money via cash.
(Source: Sharefaith)
#41. The majority of people donate less than $100 to their parishes.
Methodist Church Revenue Statistics
#42. People in the US who participate in Methodist congregations donate $44 per week on average
The variation between the lowest and the highest weekly contributions at Methodist churches is major. As per church giving statistics, the lowest weekly donation can be as low as $11, while the highest weekly donation can go up to $206.
#43. The average yearly donation per attendee in the Methodist congregation is more than $2000
In the top 200 Methodist churches, the average yearly donation per attendee varies hugely. The lowest annual giving has been recorded at $585 while the highest annual donation is around $10773.
(Source: Horizons)
#44. The average indebtedness in the top 200 Methodist churches is around $2.75 million
Only 60% of the top 200 Methodist churches have no debts. The biggest debt is nearly $21.10 million.
#45. The majority of Methodist churches boast a debt-to-income ratio below 1.0
Analysts believe that churches, that have a debt-to-giving ratio below 2.0, are able to manage their income and expenses well. With an average of 0.9, most Methodist churches are far from trouble. Church revenue statistics also indicate that nearly 27% of the top 200 Methodist churches have a debt-to-income ratio of more than 2.0.
#46. Around 80% of people living in the US donate only 2% of their income.
Wealthiest Churches Around The World By Net Worth in 2023
| Church | Net Worth (USD) |
|---|---|
| Episcopalian Church | $2.4 billion |
| Church of Scientology | $2.5 billion |
| Opus Dei | $3 billion |
| Trinity Church | $6 billion |
| Church of England | $11.97 billion |
| Seventh Day Adventists | $15.6 billion |
| Catholic Church in Australia | $20.5 billion |
| Catholic Church in Germany | $26 billion |
| Catholic Church in Vatican City | $30 billion |
| Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints | $100 billion |
Detailed Analysis
- Episcopalian Church: It has USD 2.4 billion. This church is part of the Anglican Communion, which is like a big family of churches.
- Church of Scientology: Valued at USD 2.5 billion. This church is known for its unique beliefs and practices, created by L. Ron Hubbard.
- Opus Dei: With a net worth of USD 3 billion, this is a Catholic institution focusing on helping people find God in their daily life.
- Trinity Church: This church has USD 6 billion. It's a historic Episcopal church located in New York City, known for its land holdings.
- Church of England: Valued at USD 11.97 billion, this is the mother church of the Anglican Communion, established in the 16th century.
- Seventh Day Adventists: This church, known for observing Saturday as the Sabbath, has USD 15.6 billion.
- Catholic Church in Australia: With USD 20.5 billion, this part of the global Catholic Church focuses on faith in Australia.
- Catholic Church in Germany: It has USD 26 billion. The church in Germany is financially independent and well-funded.
- Catholic Church in Vatican City: Valued at USD 30 billion, the Vatican is the spiritual and administrative center of the Catholic Church.
- Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: The wealthiest on the list with USD 100 billion, also known as the Mormon Church, it has a large following and significant investments.
Conclusion
Church donations and tithing are common practices among older people. Although the trend of money donations to churches has changed a little, religious institutions still receive most of the donation money in the US. Religion and religious institutions have been there for thousands of years and they are not going to disappear soon.
However, considering current church revenue statistics, it is clear that religious organizations and churches need to find new and more innovative ways to reach potential donors and tithers. Religious leaders need to inspire and encourage young people to make their contributions to church giving.
Sources
FAQ.
A tithe is 10 percent of the donor's income that is donated to the local church as an offering. As the tradition of tithe is mentioned in Bible, many Christians and Jews follow it as part of their faith.
For many churches, tithing and private donations are primary sources of income.
Automated giving can improve a church's finances. Church members who opt for recurring giving contribute more to churches.
There is a committee known as tithe inclusive in churches that manages the finance. Hence, the money that comes in via tithe goes straight into the church's account. It is used for doing necessary things in the church such as improving the infrastructure of the church.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) is the wealthiest church in the world. Church revenue statistics reveal that it is worth $100 billion.
Michael Singer is a career coach, podcast host, and author to help you step into a career you're excited about. Currently, He is a coach and trainer helping entrepreneurs and executives achieve business and leadership success. He is also an award-winning business journalist focused on the intersection of technology, Big Data, Cloud, SaaS, SAP, and other trending technology.
