HIV/AIDS in the U.S. 2025
HIV/AIDS continues to be a pressing public health concern in the United States, with over 39,000 new diagnoses reported in 2023 alone. While there has been a significant decline in new infections—particularly among youth aged 13–24—the virus still disproportionately affects certain populations. Men account for more than 80% of new diagnoses, and male-to-male sexual contact remains the most common transmission method. The epidemic is most concentrated in the Southern U.S., which accounts for over half of all new cases, highlighting regional disparities that demand urgent attention.
Racial and ethnic disparities remain profound, with Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino individuals making up nearly three-quarters of new HIV cases despite comprising a smaller share of the population. Encouragingly, more people living with HIV are achieving viral suppression and living longer lives due to improved treatments. However, gaps in prevention, testing, and treatment persist, particularly in underserved communities. Addressing these disparities and expanding access to healthcare services are essential for meeting the nation’s 2025 and 2030 goals of reducing new infections and improving health outcomes for all affected populations.
HIV/AIDS Statistics in the U.S. 2025
HIV/AIDS Facts & Insights
| Category | Key Insight | Supporting Data |
|---|---|---|
| Prevention Progress | Remarkable decline in new HIV infections | 12% overall decrease (2018–2022); 30% decline among ages 13–24 |
| Gender Distribution | HIV disproportionately affects men | Over 80% of 2023 diagnoses were among men |
| Transmission Method | Male-to-male sexual contact is primary route | 66% of all HIV diagnoses are due to this transmission method |
| Geographic Concentration | South bears the heaviest burden | 51% of all U.S. HIV diagnoses occur in Southern states |
| Age Demographics | HIV mainly affects working-age adults | Individuals aged 25–44 make up 60% of diagnoses in 2023 |
| Racial Disparities | Significant racial inequities persist | Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino individuals make up ⅓+ each |
| Treatment Success | HIV-related deaths have declined | Death rate dropped from 2.6/100,000 (2010) to 1.6/100,000 (2023) |
| Youth Prevention | Notable decline in young population infections | 30% reduction among ages 13–24 from 2018 to 2022 |
| Regional Inequality | Stark differences between regions | Rates range from 5.5/100,000 in Midwest to 18.4/100,000 in the South |
| Knowledge Gap | Many still unaware of HIV status | 87% know their HIV status; 13% remain undiagnosed |
The latest 2025 HIV/AIDS data shows strong national progress in reducing new infections, with a 12% drop overall and a 30% decline among youth aged 13–24, signaling success in targeted prevention. However, over 80% of new HIV diagnoses were among men, and 66% of all cases stemmed from male-to-male sexual contact, confirming ongoing risk within key demographics. The South continues to bear the greatest burden, accounting for 51% of all U.S. diagnoses, and working-age adults (25–44) represented 60% of new cases in 2023. In terms of race, Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino populations remain disproportionately affected, each comprising over one-third of HIV cases, despite making up smaller shares of the population.
There are signs of clinical improvement: the HIV-related death rate dropped from 2.6 per 100,000 in 2010 to 1.6 in 2023, reflecting expanded access to life-saving treatment. Still, regional inequality is stark—diagnosis rates range from 5.5 in the Midwest to 18.4 in the South per 100,000 people. Positively, youth prevention is working, with 30% fewer infections among ages 13–24 over four years. Yet 13% of people with HIV still don’t know their status, underscoring the urgent need for more widespread and accessible testing. While the overall trend is encouraging, gaps remain based on gender, geography, race, and age, requiring tailored strategies to close them.
National HIV Statistics in the U.S. – 2023
| Metric | 2023 Data | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Total HIV Diagnoses | 39,201 | Among persons aged 13+ in the U.S. and territories |
| HIV Diagnosis Rate | 13.7 per 100,000 | Among persons aged 13+ in the United States |
| People Living with HIV | 1,132,739 | Diagnosed HIV in U.S. and territories |
| HIV-Related Deaths | 4,496 | Among persons aged 13+ with diagnosed HIV |
| HIV Death Rate | 1.6 per 100,000 | Among persons with diagnosed HIV |
In 2023, there were 39,201 total new HIV diagnoses among individuals aged 13 and older across the U.S. and its territories, resulting in an HIV diagnosis rate of 13.7 per 100,000 population. The number of people living with diagnosed HIV in 2023 was estimated at 1,132,739, indicating a significant ongoing public health concern. Additionally, the year saw 4,496 HIV-related deaths among people aged 13+, yielding a mortality rate of 1.6 per 100,000—a continuation of long-term improvement due to advancements in care and treatment.
These 2023 figures illustrate the complex state of HIV in the U.S.—while the diagnosis and death rates remain relatively stable, the burden of managing care for over 1.1 million people living with HIV puts ongoing pressure on public health systems. The diagnosis rate of 13.7 per 100,000 in 2023 reflects the need for better outreach in at-risk populations and more widespread access to early testing and PrEP. Despite treatment progress, sustained effort is needed to reduce new infections and address gaps in HIV prevention and care.
HIV Demographic Impact in the U.S. – 2023
| Category | 2023 Diagnoses | Percentage | Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Males | 31,846 | 81% | 22.5 |
| Females | 7,350 | 19% | 5.5 |
| Male-to-Male Sexual Contact | 25,916 | 66% | Not available |
| Injection Drug Use | 2,492 | 6% | Not available |
In 2023, men accounted for 81% of all new HIV diagnoses in the U.S., totaling 31,846 cases, with a significantly higher diagnosis rate of 22.5 per 100,000 compared to women, who accounted for 19% (or 7,350 diagnoses) and had a lower rate of 5.5 per 100,000. The dominant route of transmission was male-to-male sexual contact, responsible for 66% of all 2023 diagnoses. Additionally, injection drug use contributed to 6% of new diagnoses, highlighting overlapping public health challenges.
The 2023 data reinforces that HIV prevention efforts must remain sharply focused on men who have sex with men (MSM), given their outsized risk profile. The gender gap in diagnosis rates (22.5 vs 5.5) reveals stark differences in transmission dynamics and healthcare access. These patterns emphasize the continued importance of harm reduction programs, targeted health education, and expanded access to PrEP and testing services for MSM and people who inject drugs. Tailored interventions are essential to reduce new cases and address the social and behavioral factors behind these disparities.
HIV by Age Group in the U.S. – 2023
| Age Group | 2023 Diagnoses | Percentage | Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13–24 years | 8,624 | 22% | 15.1 |
| 25–34 years | 14,386 | 37% | 31.3 |
| 35–44 years | 9,016 | 23% | 21.4 |
| 45–54 years | 4,663 | 12% | 11.6 |
| 55+ years | 2,512 | 6% | 3.1 |
In 2023, HIV diagnoses were highest among people aged 25–34, accounting for 37% of all new cases and recording the highest rate of 31.3 per 100,000. The 13–24 age group represented 22% of new diagnoses, with a rate of 15.1, followed closely by the 35–44 group, which contributed 23% of diagnoses at a rate of 21.4 per 100,000. Diagnoses dropped off considerably among older adults—only 12% were aged 45–54 (rate: 11.6) and 6% were 55+ (rate: 3.1).
The 2023 age-wise distribution shows that 82% of all new HIV diagnoses occurred in individuals under age 45, underscoring that HIV continues to disproportionately affect working-age and younger adults. These figures signal an urgent need to strengthen youth and young adult-focused prevention, expand routine screening in primary care, and invest in digital and peer-led outreach. The much lower diagnosis rates in older adults may reflect both reduced risk behaviors and the success of long-term treatment programs for previously diagnosed individuals.
Racial & Ethnic Disparities in HIV in the U.S. – 2023
| Race/Ethnicity | Number of Diagnoses | Percentage | Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black/African American | 14,754 | 38% | 41.9 |
| Hispanic/Latino | 13,462 | 34% | 20.5 |
| White | 8,631 | 22% | 4.4 |
| Asian | 1,372 | 4% | 6.8 |
| American Indian/Alaska Native | 282 | 1% | 12.7 |
| Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander | 128 | <1% | 21.8 |
| Multiple Race | 572 | 1% | 8.9 |
In 2023, Black/African American individuals accounted for 14,754 new HIV diagnoses, representing 38% of all U.S. cases, with the highest diagnosis rate of 41.9 per 100,000. Hispanic/Latino people followed with 13,462 diagnoses (34%) and a rate of 20.5, while White individuals had 8,631 diagnoses (22%), with a significantly lower rate of 4.4 per 100,000. Other racial groups had smaller totals but notable rates—Asian (1,372 diagnoses, 6.8 rate), American Indian/Alaska Native (282, 12.7), and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (128, 21.8) all reflect ongoing vulnerabilities.
The racial disparities are even more stark among women. In 2023, Black/African American females made up 50% of all HIV diagnoses among women, despite representing only 13% of the U.S. female population. Their diagnosis rate was 19.6 per 100,000, which is three times higher than Hispanic/Latino females (6.7) and eleven times higher than White females (1.8). These figures highlight a critical need for racially targeted prevention, testing, and treatment programs, particularly within Black and Latino communities, where cultural stigma, healthcare access, and structural inequalities continue to fuel transmission rates.
HIV Geographic Distribution in the U.S. – 2023
| Region | HIV Diagnoses | Percentage | Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| South | 20,188 | 51% | 18.4 |
| West | 9,412 | 24% | 12.2 |
| Northeast | 5,883 | 15% | 10.6 |
| Midwest | 3,718 | 9% | 5.5 |
In 2023, the Southern U.S. reported 20,188 new HIV diagnoses, accounting for a staggering 51% of all cases nationwide and the highest regional diagnosis rate at 18.4 per 100,000. The West followed with 9,412 diagnoses (24%) and a 12.2 rate, while the Northeast saw 5,883 cases (15%), with a 10.6 rate. The Midwest had the lowest share, reporting 3,718 diagnoses (9%) and the lowest rate at 5.5 per 100,000.
These regional disparities underscore a persistent public health challenge in the South, where structural factors like poverty, limited healthcare access, and stigma contribute to high transmission rates. In contrast, the Midwest’s lower rates may reflect more robust testing or fewer high-risk populations, but also risk underdiagnosis. These data demand targeted regional strategies, especially in the South, to reduce incidence and improve outcomes.
States with Highest HIV Death Rates in the U.S. – 2023
| State/Territory | HIV Death Rate per 100,000 |
|---|---|
| District of Columbia | 8.9 |
| Georgia | 3.1 |
| Florida | 2.9 |
| Delaware | 2.8 |
| Louisiana | 2.8 |
In 2023, the District of Columbia had the highest HIV-related death rate in the U.S., at 8.9 per 100,000, nearly three times the rate of the next closest state. Other high-burden states included Georgia (3.1), Florida (2.9), Delaware (2.8), and Louisiana (2.8)—all predominantly located in or adjacent to the Southern U.S..
These elevated mortality rates are often linked to delayed diagnosis, inequitable access to treatment, and social determinants of health, particularly in underserved urban and rural areas. The data clearly point to the urgent need for expanded care infrastructure, education campaigns, and early intervention strategies to reduce preventable deaths in these regions.
HIV Incidence Trends in the U.S. (2018–2022)
| Year | Estimated New Infections | Change from Previous Year |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 36,200 | Baseline |
| 2019 | 35,100 | -3.0% |
| 2020 | 33,900 | -3.4% |
| 2021 | 32,900 | -2.9% |
| 2022 | 31,800 | -3.3% |
From 2018 to 2022, the U.S. saw a 12% decline in new HIV infections, dropping from 36,200 cases in 2018 to 31,800 in 2022. This steady decline included annual reductions of -3.0% in 2019, -3.4% in 2020, -2.9% in 2021, and -3.3% in 2022, indicating sustained but modest progress.
The consistency of this trend highlights the impact of prevention strategies such as PrEP access, routine testing, and awareness campaigns, especially among youth. However, the data also signal the need to accelerate progress—12% over five years remains below the ambitious national HIV reduction goals set by public health authorities. Continued funding and community-level engagement will be essential to sustain this momentum.
Progress by Demographics in the U.S. (2018–2022)
| Demographic | Change in New Infections | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ages 13–24 | -30% | Largest decrease |
| Male-to-Male Sexual Contact | -10% | Still majority of infections |
| Injection Drug Use | -27% | Significant improvement |
| Black/African American | -18% | Substantial decrease |
| South Region | -16% | Regional improvement |
Between 2018 and 2022, the largest decrease in new HIV infections occurred among individuals aged 13–24, with a dramatic -30% reduction. This highlights the success of targeted youth prevention programs, particularly those that promote education, testing, and PrEP awareness. Another major success was seen in injection drug use-related infections, which dropped by 27%, reflecting improved harm reduction strategies and broader access to syringe exchange programs.
Despite a 10% decline, male-to-male sexual contact continues to account for the majority of HIV infections, suggesting the need for sustained outreach in this group. Meanwhile, Black/African American communities saw a significant 18% decline, and the South Region, historically hardest hit, recorded a 16% drop. While encouraging, these gains remain fragile and demand continued investment in equity-driven public health approaches.
HIV Transmission Methods in the U.S. – 2023
| Transmission Category | Diagnoses | Percentage | Key Demographics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male-to-Male Sexual Contact | 25,916 | 66% | Majority of all cases |
| Heterosexual Contact | 9,793 | 25% | Second largest category |
| Injection Drug Use | 2,492 | 6% | Declining trend |
| Male-to-Male + Injection Drug Use | 1,000 | 3% | Combined risk |
In 2023, male-to-male sexual contact remained the leading transmission method, accounting for 25,916 diagnoses or 66% of all new cases. This is followed by heterosexual contact at 9,793 cases (25%), reinforcing that while MSM (men who have sex with men) are most affected, heterosexual transmission still represents a significant route of infection. Injection drug use (IDU) comprised only 6% of total cases, while a small portion (3%) resulted from combined male-to-male contact and IDU, a high-risk category.
These data reveal that transmission patterns remain stratified along behavioral and demographic lines. The consistently high share of MSM cases underscores the urgent need for tailored messaging, access to PrEP, and frequent testing in LGBTQ+ communities. The relatively low proportion of IDU cases suggests harm-reduction efforts are paying off, though vigilance is needed to prevent resurgence, especially with overlapping substance use and sexual transmission risks.
Injection Drug Use Breakdown by Demographics – 2023
| Demographic | IDU Diagnoses | Percentage of IDU Cases |
|---|---|---|
| White Males | 1,072 | 43% |
| White Females | 573 | 46% |
| Total White | 1,096 | 44% |
| All Other Races | 1,396 | 56% |
Among the 2,492 total IDU-related HIV diagnoses in 2023, White males accounted for 1,072 cases (43%), while White females added 573 cases (46%)—illustrating that White individuals made up 44% of all IDU cases. However, all other races combined represented 1,396 cases or 56%, indicating that injection-related transmission affects racially diverse populations, despite the perception that it is primarily a White epidemic.
The near-equal split between White and non-White cases points to the growing racial diversity of the IDU crisis. Structural factors such as healthcare access, economic hardship, and criminalization of drug use continue to drive infections in communities of color. The data call for culturally specific harm-reduction strategies, outreach to rural and urban populations, and addressing systemic inequities that impact drug users’ health outcomes.
HIV-Related Deaths in the U.S. – 2023
| Category | Deaths | Percentage | Key Demographics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total HIV Deaths | 4,496 | 100% | Ages 13+ with diagnosed HIV |
| Males | 3,402 | 76% | Higher mortality rate |
| Females | 1,094 | 24% | Lower mortality rate |
| Ages 55–64 | 1,340 | 30% | Highest age group |
| Black/African American | 1,903 | 43% | Disproportionate impact |
| South Region | 2,457 | 56% | Geographic concentration |
In 2023, a total of 4,496 HIV-related deaths occurred among individuals aged 13 and older in the United States. Men made up 76% of these deaths (3,402 deaths), indicating a significantly higher mortality rate compared to women, who accounted for 24% (1,094 deaths). The age group 55–64 experienced the highest mortality burden, contributing 30% (1,340 deaths) of the total, which reflects the long-term health complications of aging with HIV and possible late-stage diagnosis in older adults.
Black/African Americans, despite comprising a smaller portion of the population, accounted for 1,903 deaths or 43% of the total, highlighting a severe racial disparity in HIV outcomes. Geographically, the South Region recorded 2,457 deaths, making up 56% of all HIV-related deaths, underscoring the continued concentration of HIV mortality in the Southern U.S. These figures emphasize the need for equitable access to care, timely treatment initiation, and ongoing public health efforts targeting high-risk communities.
Historical HIV Death Rate Trends in the U.S.
| Year | Death Rate per 100,000 | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 2.6 | Baseline |
| 2019 | 1.4 | Historical low |
| 2021 | 1.3 | Continued decline |
| 2023 | 1.6 | Slight increase |
The HIV-related death rate in the U.S. has shown an overall downward trajectory, dropping from 2.6 per 100,000 in 2010 to a historic low of 1.3 in 2021. However, 2023 saw a slight increase to 1.6 per 100,000, which may be influenced by factors such as delayed diagnosis, comorbidities among aging populations, or post-pandemic treatment gaps. The brief rise, though moderate, signals the need to re-examine care continuity and adherence support programs.
Despite the uptick, the broader trend remains positive, and the long-term decline in mortality reflects advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART) and viral suppression success. The slight reversal in 2023 serves as a reminder that progress is not guaranteed, and sustained attention must be given to ensuring healthcare equity, early detection, and uninterrupted treatment—particularly among marginalized and high-burden populations.
U.S. National HIV/AIDS Strategy Goals and Progress
| Goal | Target Date | Target Reduction | Current Progress |
|---|---|---|---|
| New HIV Infections | 2025 | 75% reduction | 12% reduction (2018–2022) |
| New HIV Infections | 2030 | 90% reduction | On track with current trends |
| HIV-Related Deaths | 2025 | Significant reduction | Mixed progress |
| Viral Suppression | 2025 | 95% of diagnosed | Improving steadily |
The U.S. National HIV/AIDS Strategy outlines ambitious public health targets, aiming for a 75% reduction in new HIV infections by 2025 and a 90% reduction by 2030. As of now, only a 12% decline in new infections occurred between 2018 and 2022, suggesting the country is lagging behind short-term goals but may still be on track for 2030, assuming consistent progress. Efforts to reduce HIV-related deaths have shown mixed outcomes, with improvement in care offset by persistent disparities.
One of the strongest areas of success is in viral suppression, where increasing treatment adherence has steadily boosted the proportion of patients with undetectable viral loads. The focus remains on closing gaps in diagnosis, treatment initiation, and long-term care—especially in regions and populations that face structural barriers to healthcare.
Key Success Factors in Ending the HIV Epidemic
| Prevention Strategy | Impact | Status |
|---|---|---|
| PrEP Prescriptions | Increasing | Expanded access |
| Viral Suppression | Improving | Better treatment |
| HIV Testing | Expanded | More accessible |
| Stigma Reduction | Ongoing | Community efforts |
Efforts to combat HIV in the U.S. have benefited from several key public health strategies. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) access has increased significantly, providing an effective preventive option for those at high risk. Likewise, viral suppression rates have improved, driven by enhanced antiretroviral therapies and better care retention programs. Wider HIV testing availability has ensured that more people know their status, though challenges remain in closing the 13% undiagnosed gap.
Another essential component is the fight against HIV-related stigma, which remains a barrier to both prevention and care. Community-driven education, outreach, and support groups have helped normalize conversations around HIV, promote testing, and empower affected populations. Continued investment in these strategies is vital for reaching national goals and achieving long-term epidemic control.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
