Autism Prevalence in U.S. Children Rises to 1 in 31, CDC Reports

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a developmental condition characterized by differences in social communication and repetitive behaviors, among children in the United States continues to rise, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The report, released in April 2025, shows that 1 in 31 (3.2%) 8-year-olds were identified with autism in 2022, up from 1 in 36 (2.8%) in 2020. This marks a sustained increase in autism prevalence over the past decade, based on data collected by the CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, which tracks autism diagnoses across 11 U.S. sites using health and education records.

Demographic Shifts and Geographic Variations

The ADDM Network found notable shifts in autism prevalence across racial and ethnic groups. For the first time, Asian, Black, and Hispanic children had higher rates of autism diagnosis compared to White children. Researchers attribute this shift to improved screening and diagnosis in historically underserved communities, though biological factors may also play a role.

Geographic variations were also striking. For example, the prevalence of autism was 1 in 19 children in San Diego, California, compared to 1 in 103 in some parts of Texas. These disparities may reflect differences in access to diagnostic services, awareness, and reporting practices across regions.

Persistent Disparities in Early Diagnosis

Early intervention—such as speech therapy, behavioral support, and family training—can significantly improve outcomes for autistic children. However, the CDC report notes that many children, particularly from minority backgrounds and rural areas, are not evaluated by age 3. For example, Black and Hispanic children are 30% less likely to receive an early diagnosis compared to White children, according to Autism Society data. Parents concerned about developmental delays can request free screenings through programs like CDC's "Learn the Signs. Act Early.".

Understanding the Increase

The rise in autism prevalence is attributed to multiple factors, including:

• Improved screening: Broader use of standardized tools like the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT).
• Greater awareness: Campaigns by groups like the Autism Science Foundation have reduced stigma.
• Diagnostic changes: The 2013 update to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) broadened autism criteria.

While some speculate about environmental or biological causes, the CDC emphasizes that current data cannot confirm these links. The ADDM Network's reliance on records (vs. direct assessment) may also undercount cases.

Resources and Next Steps

Families seeking support can contact:

• The Autism Response Team (1-888-288-4762) for free guidance.
• State-specific early intervention programs listed at CDC's Early Intervention page.

The Autism Society urges policymakers to address diagnostic disparities by expanding telehealth screenings in rural areas and training pediatricians in culturally responsive care.