how many people have autism

As of 2021, an estimated 61.8 million people worldwide have autism, which corresponds to about 1 in 127 people globally. This estimate comes from the Global Burden of Disease Study published recently in 2025. In the United States, autism affects about 1 in 31 children based on the latest data from 2022, showing a significant increase in prevalence over recent decades. The figures highlight growing recognition, diagnosis, and support for autistic individuals around the world.