Fielded in July and August 2025, the survey tracked key indicators first introduced in 2020 to monitor the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and identify emerging challenges and opportunities for museums.
With over 500 museum directors responding, the survey represents a broad cross-section of institutions by geography, size, and discipline. Thanks to growing participation, the data now provides detailed insights by region, museum type, operating budget, and governance structure. These findings have become essential for national advocacy, particularly in securing funding for museums across the United States.
- Access the full report 2025 Snapshot of the US Museums
Key findings from the report
Museums across the U.S. are confronting a convergence of financial pressures and declining attendance even as they continue serving as vital community anchors.
The survey of 511 museum directors reveals troubling reversals in the sector’s post-pandemic recovery:
- More than half of museums (55%) are currently seeing fewer visitors than in 2019, a setback from last year when 49% remained below pre-pandemic levels.
- Nearly one-third (29%) of museums report decreased attendance in 2025 due to weakened travel and tourism and economic uncertainty.
- Only half of museums (52%) report stronger financial performance in 2024 than before the pandemic, down from 57% the previous year.
Additionally, the report documents significant impacts from 2025 executive orders and federal actions.
One-third of museums (34%) have had government grants or contracts cancelled, most often by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).
Only 8% of affected museums report that lost federal funding has been fully replaced by foundations, sponsors, or donors, while 67% report the funding has not been replaced at all.
These funding losses have forced difficult choices:
- Among museums that lost federal funds, 24% cancelled programming for students, rural communities, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or veterans.
- 28% of affected museums reduced programming for the general public.
- 21% of all museums have deferred facility or physical infrastructure improvements or construction.
Even amid financial pressure, museums continue serving their communities beyond their traditional roles, including:
- Over one-third (36%) provide direct educational support such as tutoring, after-school programs, and school supplies.
- One-fifth (19%) offer workforce development or job training.
- Museums also provide mental health and wellness resources, digital access and literacy services, civic engagement opportunities, and language access services.
