Understanding U.S. Foster Care: by the Numbers

Statistics about foster care in the United States shed light on the range of challenges faced by children within the system. These include emotional and behavioral issues, as well as gaps in education and access to healthcare. Research shows that children in foster care are more likely to suffer from mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and even PTSD compared to their peers. Their struggle to complete high school and access quality healthcare significantly affects their long-term well-being and opportunities to support themselves independently.

5 Key statistics on foster care in the United states

Source: The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Children's Bureau, The AFCARS Report

More stats about foster care in every state

The results of children aging out of foster care 

  • 71% of girls in foster care are pregnant by the age of 21

    71% of girls in foster care pregnant by 21

    71% of girls who spend time in foster care become pregnant by the age of 21.
     

  • 20% Will live on the streets

    Homelessness in foster youth

    20% of foster care youth experience homelessness within four years of aging out. 

  • 20% Have Been jailed

    One in five foster youth will be incarcerated by 21​1 in 5 foster children will be jailed by the age of 21. 

The statistics surrounding foster care are often overwhelming. One of the key parts of addressing this complex issue is increasing the number of caring and supportive foster families. FosterUSKids strives to provide centralized access to information and child-placing agencies for individuals who want to help foster children.

Do you want to learn more about the state of foster care and the needs of foster children in the U.S.? Dive deeper into foster care and adoption statistics in the latest AFCARS Report. We invite you to explore a range of topics related to foster care and adoption in our Blogs.