How many Amish live in North America?

Yes, we will be talking math. In 2012, the Amish population was around 270,000. The population is predicted to double within the next 15 years. There are multiple reasons this is predicted to happen.

First, the average Amish family has seven (7) children. Yes, seven kids in one household. Their families are tight knit. Many of the grandparents and even great grandparents can live in houses near the main home. Many of the children do not leave home until they get married. Even then the newlyweds may live with their parents for quite a number of years until the couple gets a home of their own. From:  Powell, Albrecht. "Amish 101 - Amish Beliefs, Culture & Lifestyle, History of the Amish in America,". about.com. Retrieved 2012

Second, the retention rate is above 80%. Missouri’s retention rate is estimated to be even greater at over 90%. So of you have seen those Reality TV Shows that show young people breaking away from their Amish communities. Yes, that is happening; however, at a much lower rate in Missouri.

#AllAboutAmish by #MissouriAmish