White Population Count and Share
The United States has the largest white population of any country in the world. In recent years, the Census Bureau estimated the non-Hispanic white population at roughly 191 million to 196 million people, making up about 58 to 59 percent of the total U.S. population. These figures are based on self-identification in the decennial census and ongoing population surveys.
How the Data Is Measured
The U.S. Census Bureau classifies race and ethnicity through household surveys and the decennial census. The white category generally includes people with origins in Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa. Because the census asks about race and Hispanic origin separately, the non-Hispanic white population is often reported alongside the broader white population that includes white Hispanics.
Trends and Context
The share of white residents has declined over the past decade as the U.S. population has grown more diverse. Immigration, intermarriage, and differences in age structure contribute to these shifts. For detailed tables and historical comparisons, the Census Bureau provides official population estimates and projections on its website.
