United States Government Debt to GDP — 2026 Data & Trend
The United States' government debt was 115.77% in December 2024, up from 114.73% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 114.73%.
The United States' government debt stands at 115.77% as of December 2024. Over the latest readings, the government debt has moved within a band of 33.27% to 124.51%. The most recent figure of 115.77% is up from 114.73% a year earlier, and is 1.03% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 121 economies tracked on this platform, United States ranks #11 on government debt by latest value. It rose from 114.73% in the previous year, and compares with a year-earlier 114.73%.
What's driving it
The debt ratio moves with budget deficits, growth, interest costs and the currency; faster nominal growth lowers it, while wide deficits push it up.
Recent readings
| Period | Government debt |
|---|---|
| Dec 2024 | 115.77% |
| Dec 2023 | 114.73% |
| Dec 2022 | 112.72% |
| Dec 2021 | 118.28% |
| Dec 2020 | 124.51% |
| Dec 2019 | 100.23% |
| Dec 2018 | 98.63% |
| Dec 2017 | 97.21% |
Data: The World Bank — World Development Indicators (CC BY 4.0) Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
How Much Government Debt Does the United States Have in 2026?
The United States' government debt was 115.77% in December 2024, up from 114.73% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 114.73%.
Is the government debt rising or falling in the United States?
It rose in the latest reading — 115.77% in December 2024 versus 114.73% a year earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is government debt?
It measures total public debt expressed as a share of gross domestic product (debt-to-GDP).