The number of homeschooled students in the United States has grown significantly over the past decade. As of 2026, approximately 3.7 million children are being homeschooled, representing about 7% of the school-age population. This figure has more than doubled since 2019, driven by shifts in educational preferences and increased flexibility in learning options.
Current homeschooling numbers and trends
According to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the homeschooling population surged during the pandemic and has remained elevated. In the 2025–2026 school year, an estimated 3.7 million K–12 students are learning at home. This compares to roughly 2.5 million in 2020 and just 1.7 million in 2016.
Growth has been steady across all regions, but the South and West have seen the largest increases. States like Florida, Texas, and North Carolina now report homeschooling rates above 10% of their student populations.
| School Year | Estimated Homeschoolers | Percentage of US Students |
|---|---|---|
| 2015–2016 | 1.7 million | 3.3% |
| 2019–2020 | 2.5 million | 5.0% |
| 2021–2022 | 3.1 million | 6.2% |
| 2025–2026 | 3.7 million | 7.0% |
Why are more families choosing homeschooling?
Desire for customized learning
Many parents report that homeschooling allows them to tailor lessons to their child’s pace and interests. This flexibility helps students who struggle in traditional classrooms or need advanced material.
Concerns about school environment
Safety, bullying, and peer pressure remain top reasons families switch to homeschooling. A 2025 survey by the Homeschool Legal Defense Association found that 41% of parents cited the school environment as their primary motivation.
Religious or moral instruction
About 16% of homeschooling families choose this path to provide religious education. This percentage has remained stable over the past five years.
Dissatisfaction with academic instruction
Some parents feel public or private schools do not meet their child’s academic needs. Homeschooling gives them control over curriculum and teaching methods.
How homeschooling affects college and career readiness
Homeschooled students are increasingly accepted by colleges and universities nationwide. Most institutions now have specific admissions policies for homeschool applicants, often requiring a portfolio, test scores, or a transcript from the parent.
Data from the National Association for College Admission Counseling shows that homeschooled students have a college graduation rate of about 67%, similar to that of traditional public school graduates. Many colleges actively recruit homeschoolers for their self-discipline and independent study skills.
For families considering college, it is important to keep detailed records of coursework and extracurricular activities. Some states require homeschoolers to take standardized tests or submit annual evaluations.
State-by-state variation in homeschooling numbers
Homeschooling rates vary widely by state due to different laws and reporting requirements. States with looser regulations, such as Texas and Indiana, tend to have higher numbers. States with stricter oversight, like New York and Massachusetts, have lower but still growing rates.
- Texas: approximately 700,000 homeschoolers, or 12% of students
- Florida: around 400,000 homeschoolers, or 11% of students
- California: an estimated 350,000 homeschoolers, or 5% of students
- New York: about 150,000 homeschoolers, or 5% of students
These numbers are based on state education department reports and federal estimates. Always check your state’s specific requirements before starting homeschooling.
Practical tips for parents considering homeschooling
If you are thinking about homeschooling, start by researching your state’s laws. Each state has different notification, curriculum, and assessment requirements.
Join a local or online homeschooling group to connect with experienced families. Many groups share resources, field trip ideas, and co-op opportunities.
Plan your schedule and curriculum in advance, but stay flexible. One of the biggest advantages of homeschooling is the ability to adjust when something is not working.
Keep thorough records of your child’s work, including samples, test scores, and reading lists. These will be helpful for high school transcripts and college applications.
Finally, consider your child’s social needs. Many homeschoolers participate in sports, music lessons, library programs, and community activities to stay engaged with peers.
The number of homeschoolers in the US continues to grow, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you are just exploring the option or already teaching at home, understanding the current landscape can help you make informed decisions for your family’s education.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many homeschoolers are there in the United States right now?
As of 2026, there are approximately 3.7 million homeschooled students in the US, which is about 7% of all school-age children.
Is homeschooling growing in popularity?
Yes, homeschooling has more than doubled since 2019 and continues to grow each year, especially in Southern and Western states.
What percentage of US students are homeschooled?
About 7% of K–12 students in the United States are currently homeschooled, according to the latest NCES data.
Do homeschooled students do well in college?
Yes, homeschooled students have a college graduation rate of around 67%, which is comparable to traditional school graduates, and many colleges actively recruit them.
Which state has the most homeschoolers?
Texas has the highest number of homeschoolers, with approximately 700,000 students, followed by Florida and California.
