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Adoption by the Numbers

Want to know how many children were adopted in the United States in 2019 and 2020?

In our newest comprehensive research report, NCFA explores:

Domestic adoption statistics, including public, private, and step-parent adoptions.

Analysis of how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted adoption.

State factsheets showing how adoption has changed over time in your state.

Research Matters. Here's Why.

Adoption by the Numbers is the only report of its kind to provide a comprehensive count of private domestic adoptions in the United States. This research provides answers to frequently asked questions about adoption that we receive on a regular basis from members of the media, policy and lawmakers, adoption professionals, and the general public.

Combined with our ongoing research on the characteristics and experiences of birth parents, adoptive parents, and adopted individuals, we can develop a roadmap for understanding and strengthening adoption as a positive option for children in need of the opportunity to thrive in a permanent, loving family.

Accurate information, grounded in reliable data, can clear up myths and misconceptions, drive important policy decisions, and equip practitioners to better serve the adoption community.

This project was made possible by:

The Center for the Advancement of Children, Youth, and Families (CACYF). The mission of CACYF is to strengthen, through research, education, training and technical assistance, the social services that support the quality of life, safety, and well-being of children, youth, and families within their communities. CACYF is part of the National Catholic School of Social Service at Catholic University of America in Washington, DC.

The Opt Institute provided financial support for the creation of this report. Opt is a national research foundation and think tank dedicated to improving access to and support for private infant adoption.