Autism Identification Rates Reach 1 in 31 U.S. Children, CDC Reports

The identification of autism traits among U.S. children continues to rise, with new CDC data showing 1 in 31 eight-year-olds (3.2%) had documented autism diagnoses in 2022 — up from 1 in 36 in 2020. The findings, published in April 2025 as part of the CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, mark the 14th consecutive biennial report showing increasing identification rates.

Shifting Identification Patterns

One notable finding is the changing distribution across racial and ethnic groups. Asian, Black, and Hispanic children showed higher identification rates than White children in this report — a shift from earlier ADDM reports where White children were most frequently identified. As Johns Hopkins researchers noted, this may reflect improved access to services, though the data cannot confirm causation. Some experts caution that varying diagnostic thresholds across school districts may also contribute to these patterns.

children continues to rise, with new CDC data showing 1 in 31 eight-year-olds (3.2%) had documented autism diagnoses in 2022 — up from 1 in 36 in 2020.

Geographic differences remain significant, with identification rates ranging from 9.7 to 53.1 per 1,000 children across the 16 sites. The AAP analysis suggests local diagnostic practices and service availability likely play a role in these variations.

Understanding Rising Numbers

The increase in autism identification — from 1 in 150 children in 2000 to today's 1 in 31 — primarily reflects broader diagnostic criteria, increased awareness, and improved screening tools. As AP News reported, the CDC's methodology relies on reviewing educational and medical records rather than population-wide screening, which may miss some cases.

'These numbers highlight the importance of early identification and support services,' said a CDC spokesperson in the CNN coverage. The report found median diagnosis age remained at 4.5 years — later than the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendation to screen all children by age 2.

Practical Guidance for Families

Parents concerned about their child's development can:

• Request autism screening at 18- and 24-month well-child visits
• Contact their state's early intervention program
• Consult CDC developmental milestone resources
• Connect with local support networks through organizations like the Autism Society