8 Facts About Black American Families

During Black History Month, which has been officially celebrated every February since 1976, we recognize the accomplishments of Black Americans. This year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History made family the theme of its Black History Month celebration. As we honor the past, we offer a snapshot of facts about Black families’ experience in America today based on the latest research from the Pew Research Center, U.S. Census Bureau, and National Bureau of Economic Research. 

1) 14% of the U.S. population is Black, as of 2019.  

In comparison, 60% of the U.S. population is non-Hispanic White, 18% is Hispanic, 7% is Asian American, and 2% is American Indian or Alaska Native. Learn more.

2) 75% of Black American adults say religion is very important in their lives. 

In comparison, 53% of all American adults say religion is very important in their lives. Learn more.

3) 64% of Black Americans said in July 2020 that they were living comfortably or doing okay financially. 

In comparison, 77% of all Americans said the same. Learn more. 

4) 42% of Black American adults owned their home in 2019. 

In comparison, 65% of the total U.S. adult population owned their home in 2019. Learn more. 

5) 10% of Black American children ages 3 to 18 did not have internet access at home in 2018. 

In comparison, 6% of all American children did not have internet at home. Learn more. 

6) 23% of Black Americans age 25 and older had a bachelor's degree or higher in 2019 — up from 12% in 1989. 

In comparison, 33% of all Americans age 25 and older had a bachelor's degree or higher in 2019. Learn more.

7) 72% of Black American adults identify as Christian, as of 2019. 

In comparison, 65% of the total adult population identifies as Christian. Learn more here and here.

8) 19% of Black Americans lived in poverty in 2019. 

In comparison, 11% of the total U.S. population lived in poverty. Learn more.