Data Shows Significant Racial Differences in Single Motherhood

What We’re Showing

The share of mothers in the U.S. who are single, by race/ethnicity, in 2023. The data comes from the Center for American Progress. 

Key Takeaways 

• There are 7.3 million single mothers in the U.S. (compared to 1.9 million fathers)
• In 2023, 21% of all mothers in the U.S. were single mothers
• 47% of Black mothers were single mothers
• 25% of Hispanic mothers were single mothers
• The majority of single mothers are in their 30s or 40s and do not have a college degree