More than 100,000 churches are estimated to exist in Nigeria, placing the country among the nations with the largest number of Christian places of worship worldwide.
A ranking shared by StatiSense on X puts Nigeria third globally, behind the United States and Brazil.
The ranking is based on estimated numbers of registered church buildings. It may not capture house churches and other unregistered congregations.
7. China — 70,000+ churches
China is estimated to have more than 70,000 registered churches and places of worship.
However, the figure may not represent the country’s total number of Christian congregations because many house churches operate outside the official registration system.
6. Philippines — 85,000 churches
The Philippines has an estimated 85,000 churches, making it the sixth country on the list.
Christianity has a strong presence in the country, with Catholicism accounting for the majority. Evangelical and independent Christian groups are also widespread.
5. Mexico — 88,000 churches
Mexico ranks fifth with approximately 88,000 churches.
Catholicism has historically dominated the country’s religious landscape. However, Evangelical and other Christian denominations have continued to expand.
4. Russia — 90,000 churches
Russia occupies fourth place, with an estimated 90,000 churches.
The Russian Orthodox Church accounts for a significant share of the country’s Christian places of worship.
Religious activity expanded after the collapse of the Soviet Union, following the relaxation of restrictions on religious practice.
3. Nigeria — 100,000+ churches
Nigeria ranks third, with more than 100,000 churches.
The country’s large Christian population has contributed to its position on the ranking. Pentecostal churches are particularly prominent, while Catholic and mainline Protestant denominations also have a strong presence.
2. Brazil — 280,000 to 300,000 churches
Brazil takes second place, with an estimated 280,000 to 300,000 churches.
The country has a large Christian population. Catholicism remains prominent, while Evangelical and Pentecostal churches have experienced substantial growth.
1. United States — 350,000 to 380,000 churches
The United States has the highest estimated number of churches, with between 350,000 and 380,000 church buildings.
Its long Christian history and diverse religious landscape have contributed to the large number of congregations. They range from small community churches to major megachurches.
Figures are estimates
StatiSense said the figures are estimates based on registered church buildings.
The ranking should therefore not be treated as an official global census. Countries with large numbers of unregistered congregations may have significantly more churches than the figures suggest.