Report Highlights: There has been a 25% increase in gun ownership in America since 2000. The percentage of Americans owning guns varies depending on the state, age, and other factors.
- Over 60% of those living in Montana, Wyoming, and West Virginia own guns.
- 34% of Americans own guns in 2024.
- 37% of Americans between 50 and 64 own a gun.
- 21% of Americans between 18 and 29 own a firearm.
- 40% of men and 25% of women own guns in America.
- 66% of Americans own more than one firearm.
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Methodology
The United States does not require firearm registration, and firearm ownership is not documented. Therefore, we must rely on self-reporting surveys and studies to understand the percentage of gun ownership in America.
The following sections include data gathered from self-reporting surveys and cross-referenced with various studies that include firearm sales records. Historical trends and sales data were also used to ensure accuracy.
Gun Ownership Percentage by State
The average state has 37% of residents owning at least one firearm.
Montana, Wyoming, and West Virginia have the highest percentage of gun owners (over 60%), while New Jersey, Hawaii, and Massachusetts have the lowest (less than 10%).
Gun Ownership Percentage by Year
Approximately 21 million Americans purchased guns between 2019 and 2024, leading to a 25% increase in American gun ownership.
In 1980, 30% of Americans owned guns (50% of men, 10% of women). 2 In 2000, 27% of Americans owned guns. The percentage of gun owners increased by 11% in 2005 to 30%. Between 2010 and 2015, 28% of Americans owned guns. 3
After the initial pandemic buying spree in 2020, 32% of Americans owned guns. Americans continued purchasing firearms in 2024, leading to 34% owning guns. 3
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