The Challenge
The United States faces one of the greatest incarceration challenges in the world, with nearly 2 million people currently held across prisons, jails, and youth facilities. Many enter custody with disrupted education, limited employment history, and poor health, making rehabilitation even more vital. Upon release, most return to their communities, yet high recidivism rates reflect the lack of effective support, programming and opportunity. This cycle impacts not only individuals but also families and neighborhoods, driving inequality and undermining public safety. Breaking this pattern requires innovative approaches that combine education, well-being, and community reintegration.
Incarcerated population by facility
This chart illustrates the distribution of the U.S. incarcerated population across different types of facilities in 2025.
Incarcerated by category in state prisons
This chart illustrates the distribution of the U.S. incarcerated population across different types of facilities in 2025.
Jail population by conviction status
Local jail population divided into convicted and unconvicted (pretrial).
Youth confined by system
Number of youth held in juvenile justice, adult, or immigration systems.
Incarcerated population by race/ethnicity
Breakdown of those incarcerated in state, federal, or local facilities.
Want the full picture?
Our data has been sourced from Prison Policy. View the source of our data and all other educational US incarceration data.
Make a difference today
If you would like to support the Twinning Project and help us transform lives through education, sport, and rehabilitation, please reach out —together we can make a lasting difference.
Proudly supported by
The Twinning Project is proud to be supported by its valued partners, whose commitment and collaboration strengthen our mission to create positive change. Their support enables us to reach more communities, provide greater opportunities, and build lasting impact. Together, we share a vision of transforming lives through education, sport, and rehabilitation, fostering brighter futures for individuals and society.
