What is the current number of ordained Catholic clergy male and female in the US compared to 1970?

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2026-04-19 18:20

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As of 2023, the number of ordained Catholic clergy in the U.S. has significantly declined compared to 1970. In 1970, there were approximately 58,000 priests, while recent estimates suggest there are around 36,000 today. The number of female clergy, such as nuns and sisters, has also decreased from about 180,000 in 1970 to roughly 40,000 in recent years. This overall decline reflects broader trends in religious participation and vocations within the Catholic Church.

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