How Many LDS Temples Are in the United States?

The United States is home to more temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints than any other country in the world. From historic temples like the Salt Lake Temple to newly dedicated and announced temples across the nation, the Church continues to expand opportunities for members to worship closer to home.

If you've ever wondered how many LDS temples are in the United States, the answer depends on whether you're counting operating temples, those under construction, those undergoing renovation, or announced temples that have not yet broken ground. Because new temples are announced during General Conference and construction progresses throughout the year, the total continues to grow.

In this guide, we'll explain the current number of temples in the United States, why the country has so many, and where they're located.

Why Are There So Many Temples in the United States?

There are several reasons the United States has more temples than any other nation.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized in the United States in 1830, and its headquarters remain in Salt Lake City, Utah. Many of the earliest Church members lived in the United States, and as membership expanded westward, temples were built to meet the needs of growing congregations.

Today, the United States still has the largest population of Church members in the world. Millions of Latter-day Saints live throughout the country, making additional temples necessary so members don't have to travel long distances to participate in temple worship.

President Russell M. Nelson has also emphasized bringing temples closer to members whenever possible. Instead of requiring families to drive several hours—or even days—to attend the temple, new temples are being announced in cities throughout the country.

How Many LDS Temples Are in the United States?

The United States currently has well over 200 temples when counting operating temples, temples under construction, and announced temples together. The exact number changes regularly as new temples are announced and dedicated.

These temples fall into several categories:

• Operating temples that are open for ordinance work.
• Temples under renovation that will reopen after construction is complete.
• Temples under construction that are actively being built.
• Announced temples that have been approved but have not yet begun construction.

Because General Conference often includes new temple announcements, the total number can increase several times each year.

Which States Have the Most LDS Temples?

While temples are located across much of the country, a handful of states contain the highest concentrations.

Utah

Utah has more temples than any other state by a wide margin. Home to Church headquarters and a large percentage of the Church's worldwide membership, nearly every region of Utah is within a relatively short drive of a temple.

California

California has one of the largest populations of Church members outside Utah. Temples stretch from San Diego to Sacramento, serving members across the state.

Texas

Texas has experienced tremendous Church growth over the past several decades. Multiple operating temples and additional announced temples continue to improve access for members throughout the state.

Arizona

Arizona has long been an important area for Church membership in the southwestern United States. Historic temples, including the Mesa Arizona Temple, are joined by several newer temples throughout the state.

Idaho

Although Idaho has a much smaller population than California or Texas, it has one of the highest percentages of Church members in the United States, resulting in numerous temples throughout the state.

States with One Temple

Several states currently have just one operating temple, while others have recently received announcements for additional temples.

As Church membership continues to grow, it's possible that more states will eventually receive additional temples to better serve local members.

Temple Growth Across America

Temple growth in the United States has accelerated in recent years.

Rather than concentrating temples only in major metropolitan areas, many newer temples are being built in mid-sized cities where members previously traveled several hours to attend.

This approach reduces travel time, increases opportunities for families to attend regularly, and allows members to participate in temple worship more frequently.

Each General Conference brings anticipation as members wonder where future temples will be announced.

Visiting Temples Throughout the United States

Many Latter-day Saints enjoy visiting temples while traveling for vacations, family reunions, business trips, or Church history tours.

Each temple has its own unique architecture, landscaping, artwork, and local history. Visiting different temples can become a meaningful way to strengthen faith while creating lasting family memories.

If you're hoping to visit temples across the country, keeping track of your experiences can make those visits even more meaningful.

My Temple Journey was created to help members record every temple they visit with scratch-off pages, journal prompts, and space to preserve memories from each visit. Whether your goal is to visit every temple in Utah or every temple in the United States, it provides a fun and meaningful way to document your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which state has the most LDS temples?

Utah has more temples than any other state, with dozens of operating, under-construction, and announced temples throughout the state.

Why are so many temples being built?

Church leaders continue announcing new temples to make temple worship more accessible as membership grows around the world.

Can anyone visit an LDS temple?

Anyone may visit a temple during its public open house before it is dedicated. After dedication, entrance is reserved for members of the Church who hold a current temple recommend.

Will more temples be announced?

Yes. New temple announcements are regularly made during General Conference, and the number of temples continues to increase each year.

Conclusion

The United States remains the center of temple growth for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With hundreds of temples operating, under construction, or announced, members across the country have greater opportunities than ever before to worship close to home.

As new temples continue to be announced and dedicated, the total will keep growing, reflecting the Church's commitment to making temple blessings available to members throughout the nation.

Whether you're hoping to visit one temple or all of them, each visit represents an opportunity to strengthen your faith, make sacred covenants, and create lasting memories along the way.

Scott & Riah

Brough Made

https://broughmade.com