15,000 churches to close in the U.S. in 2025 – study

Illustration: an increasing number of churches in the U.S. are closing due to declining attendance. Source: Sarah Grillo / Axios

On October 7, 2025, Axios Media Inc. published research data indicating that around 15,000 churches in the United States are expected to close this year. Experts warn that such a large-scale decline could seriously affect local communities, especially in rural America, where churches have traditionally served not only spiritual but also social functions.

According to Axios, the disappearance of parishes will mean the loss of support centers for thousands of people. Researchers note that the shrinking number of congregations reflects a broader trend – the growth of non-religious Americans and the weakening of traditional forms of Christian life.

Data from the Pew Research Center show that the share of Christians in the U.S. population has declined from 78% to 62% over the past two decades. Meanwhile, more believers are joining large non-denominational megachurches, further undermining traditional local parishes.

The National Council of Churches of the USA has warned that the trend could intensify: in the coming years, up to 100,000 churches may face closure, and about 15,000 pastors will be forced to switch to part-time ministry. Among the reasons cited are staff shortages and low clergy incomes. The average salary of a pastor in the United States is about $56,000 a year, compelling many to combine ministry with other work.

Researchers emphasize that the impending closure of thousands of parishes will deal not only a spiritual but also a social blow to American communities, where churches have long served as a pillar of support for those in need.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that an ancient church in Boston is being converted into an affordable housing complex.

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