How many skydivers in the US?

Answer 1

This question is the one most frequently asked of dive-training agency PADI (the Professional Association of Diving Instructors). The truth is, nobody knows for sure. There are several diver certification agencies in the US, and more in other countries. Until recently these agencies didn't share certification data. Then there's the question of how one defines "diver". Does this refer to "certified" divers or "active" divers. It's true that nearly all divers are certified divers, but only a small percentage of people with a diving certification make more than five divers per year.

The topic was explored at some length by Ben Davison in the May 2007 issue of his dive-industry magazine "Undercurrent". While PADI and other agencies often suggest the number is "2.5 to 3 million", Davison believes that this number is significantly inflated. Most of us who have spent some time in the diving industry agree. Davison's best guess is there are probably about 1.2 million "active" divers in the United States, where "active" is defined as making at least 5 divers per year.

Answer 2

Currently USPA has a little over 30,000 active members.