U.S. states where the highest and lowest shares of LGBT adults live

The analysis conducted by the Williams Institute sheds light on the distribution of LGBT adults across different U.S. states and underscores the importance of understanding the size and needs of this population for effective policy-making and public health initiatives.

According to the data, Washington, D.C., emerges as the jurisdiction with the highest estimated proportion of adults identifying as LGBT, at 14.3%. Oregon, Delaware, Vermont, and New Hampshire follow closely behind, with shares ranging from 7.2% to 7.8%. On the other end of the spectrum, West Virginia, Mississippi, and North Carolina have the lowest estimated shares of LGBT adults, ranging from 4.1% to 4.4%.

The analysis also highlights generational differences in self-identification, with younger Americans more likely to identify as LGBT compared to older generations.

However, it's essential to recognize that these estimates are based on self-reporting and may be influenced by factors such as social attitudes toward the LGBT community, privacy concerns, and the prevalence of hate crimes.

The push for inclusion of gender identity and sexual orientation questions in national surveys like the American Community Survey reflects a growing recognition of the need for comprehensive data collection to inform policies and support marginalized communities. Moving forward, prioritizing the collection of accurate and relevant data will be crucial for addressing the diverse needs of the LGBT population and ensuring their well-being and safety. As Kerith Conron, the research director at the Williams Institute, aptly notes, embracing this shift is essential for advancing societal progress and quality of life for all individuals.

15.02.24

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