Earning the Eagle Scout rank is a remarkable accomplishment that only a small percentage of Scouts achieve. Each year, thousands of young people across the United States complete the challenging requirements, but some states consistently stand out for producing the most Eagle Scouts. If you are curious about where Scouts most often reach this milestone and what factors contribute to these trends, you are in the right place.
In this article, we will break down which states lead the nation in Eagle Scout awards, explore the reasons behind these patterns, and share insights that could help you or your troop aim higher. Understanding how different states support Scouts can give you ideas for setting ambitious goals or improving your own troop’s approach.
What is the Eagle Scout Rank?
The Eagle Scout rank represents the highest achievement in the Scouts BSA program. Since 1911, over 2.75 million Scouts have earned this honor, demonstrating leadership, service, and a strong commitment to their communities. Earning Eagle means demonstrating leadership, service, and consistent character over years of participation.
To become an Eagle Scout, a candidate must complete four core requirements. First, they must earn at least 21 merit badges, including 14 specific Eagle-required badges such as First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, and Personal Fitness. These badges cover everything from outdoor skills to civic responsibility, ensuring Eagle Scouts develop well-rounded capabilities.
Second, candidates must serve in positions of responsibility within their troop for at least six months while holding the Life Scout rank. Serving in a troop leadership position gives Scouts a chance to make decisions, plan events, and help their patrol succeed. positions range from patrol leader to senior patrol leader, each offering unique challenges and growth opportunities.
Third, Eagle candidates must complete a significant service project that benefits an organization other than Scouting America. The Eagle Scout service project requires planning, leading a group, and making a positive difference outside Scouting America. The project workbook and approval process ensure each project meets rigorous standards for scope and leadership demonstration.
Finally, candidates must consistently show Scout Spirit by living according to the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives. Scouts must show they live by the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives, beyond their time at meetings. Boards of review look for evidence of steady character and responsibility.
The path to Eagle Scout demands ruthless honesty about your specific actions and their results. If you’re having trouble with a requirement, focus on the actions you take: for example, to learn knots, practice them hands-on until you can do them smoothly.
Eagle Scouts receive distinctive recognition including the Eagle Scout medal, badge, and certificate. Many also earn Eagle Palms by completing additional merit badges and service hours beyond the basic requirements. These symbols represent personal achievement as well as a commitment to continued service and leadership.
The video below provides a comprehensive overview of Eagle Scout requirements and the leadership development process, featuring detailed explanations from experienced Scouting leaders.
The video “BSA Eagle Scout Rank Requirements 1–7” explains the seven main steps to earn the Eagle Scout rank: staying active in the troop for six months as a Life Scout, demonstrating Scout spirit, earning 21 merit badges (including required ones), serving in a troop leadership position, planning and leading a community service project, having a Scoutmaster conference, and passing the Eagle board of review. The presenter highlights key details like getting proper approvals for the service project and completing all required paperwork, offering practical advice to help Scouts succeed at each stage.
The Eagle Scout rank opens doors in education, careers, and community involvement. Research shows that Eagle Scouts demonstrate higher rates of college graduation, leadership positions, and community service throughout their lives. Military academies, colleges, and employers recognize the rank as evidence of character, leadership ability, and follow-through on long-term commitments.
This recognition is earned through years of consistent effort and growth. The requirements ensure that every Eagle Scout has proven their ability to lead others, serve their community, and live by strong moral principles. That’s why the rank carries such weight and respect across American society.
Which States Produce the Most Eagle Scouts?
State-by-state data reveals clear leaders in Eagle Scout production, with some states consistently outperforming others year after year. The numbers tell a compelling story about where young men are most likely to achieve Scouting’s highest rank.
| State | Eagle Scouts (2017) | Eagle Scouts (2019) |
|---|---|---|
| Utah | 5,879 | 9,723 |
| California | 5,028 | 5,534 |
| Texas | 4,231 | 4,513 |
| Pennsylvania | 2,456 | 2,789 |
| Idaho | Not in Top 5 | Significant jump to Top 10 |
In 2017, the top five states accounted for about 36% of all Eagle Scouts nationwide, according to Scouting Magazine’s annual report. Utah maintained its commanding lead through 2019, while less-populous states like Idaho and Wyoming made notable jumps in the rankings.
Utah produces more Eagle Scouts than any other state, even though its population is much smaller than California or Texas. Per-capita, the state is far ahead of the rest.
Why Do Certain States Lead?
Several key factors contribute to these dramatic state-by-state differences in Eagle Scout production:
Population size plays an obvious role. Larger states like California and Texas naturally have more Scouts in their programs, creating a bigger pool of potential Eagle candidates. However, raw population doesn’t explain Utah’s outsized performance.
Scouting culture makes the biggest difference. In Utah, Scouting has deep roots in local communities and religious organizations, leading to higher participation rates and stronger support systems. The LDS Church’s historical partnership with Scouting created an environment where earning Eagle Scout became a cultural expectation, not only an individual goal.
Community support creates the infrastructure that helps Scouts succeed. States with strong Eagle Scout production typically have extensive networks of volunteers, experienced leaders, and engaged parents who understand the advancement process. These communities often have established systems for connecting Scouts with merit badge counselors and service project opportunities.
Access to resources varies significantly by region. States with more Scout camps, active merit badge counselors, and diverse service opportunities naturally help more Scouts complete their requirements. Rural states sometimes struggle with limited resources, while urban areas might have more competition for volunteer attention.
In high-performing states, local organizations often partner closely with Scouting units to provide structured support and mentorship for Eagle projects. This collaboration makes the process less overwhelming for Scouts by breaking down complex requirements into manageable steps. Rather than leaving Scouts to navigate the Eagle path alone, these communities create mentorship systems where older Scouts guide younger ones through each stage of advancement.
The data also reveals an interesting trend: smaller states with strong Scouting cultures can punch above their weight. Idaho’s jump into the top rankings shows that states of any size can achieve high levels of success. When communities prioritize Scouting and create supportive environments, they can achieve remarkable results regardless of their overall size.
Trends in Eagle Scout Achievement Rates
While the number of Eagle Scouts continues to grow each year, the percentage of Scouts who reach this rank remains consistently small. Recent statistics show that only about 4 to 6 percent of eligible Scouts achieve Eagle each year, making it one of the most challenging youth achievements in America.
| Year | Percentage of Eligible Scouts Earning Eagle |
|---|---|
| 2005 | 4.2% (may be over 5% after adjustments) |
| 2013 | 6.02% |
| 2014 | 6.01% |
| 2018 | 6.49% |
These numbers tell an important story about dedication and perseverance. The Eagle Scout rank requires earning at least 21 merit badges, completing a significant service project, and demonstrating leadership over several years. Most Scouts who join never attempt the full requirements, while others start the journey but don’t finish.
From around 4% in the early 2000s to over 6% in recent years, more Scouts are successfully navigating the path to Eagle. This improvement reflects better support systems, clearer guidance, and stronger mentorship programs within troops across the country.
Having this kind of support can make a huge difference, especially during the service project phase. The key is finding the right inputs: consistent progress meetings, clear deadlines, and practical help with project planning, which support steady progress toward your goal.
The published percentages count only those Scouts who are eligible for Eagle, rather than all Scouts who have ever joined. Every Eagle Scout represents years of consistent participation.
The trend toward higher achievement rates suggests that troops are getting better at supporting Scouts through the Eagle process. Understanding the full Eagle Scout requirements early and creating a realistic timeline helps Scouts see the path ahead rather than feeling overwhelmed by the scope of what’s required.
Stories from High-Achieving States
Scouts from leading states often complete impressive service projects that benefit their schools, parks, and communities. These success stories reveal patterns that other troops can learn from and adapt to their own situations.
California leads the way with innovative community partnerships. Recent Eagle projects there have included building sensory gardens for special needs students, creating outdoor learning spaces for elementary schools, and developing trail systems in local parks. One Scout in San Diego coordinated with multiple city departments to install exercise equipment along a popular walking path, directly addressing community health needs identified through local surveys.
Texas consistently produces large numbers of Eagle Scouts through strong troop cultures that emphasize early planning and peer support. Groups of Scouts often work together on complementary projects in the same community area.For example, one troop in Austin had three Eagles complete related projects at the same elementary school: one built outdoor reading benches, another created a butterfly garden, and the third installed educational signage about local wildlife.
Illinois has seen remarkable growth in female Eagle Scouts since the program opened to all youth. These Scouts have tackled projects ranging from building Little Free Libraries in underserved neighborhoods to creating STEM learning kits for after-school programs. Their success demonstrates how fresh perspectives can identify community needs that might have been overlooked.
The key difference in high-achieving states isn’t just individual talent—it’s the systematic approach to advancement. Successful troops focus on changing their approach and inputs, rather than simply increasing effort. Instead of simply telling Scouts to “work harder” on advancement, they create specific systems: monthly advancement check-ins, project planning workshops, and partnerships with local organizations that provide meaningful service opportunities.
These stories highlight the impact of teamwork, leadership, and community involvement in reaching the Eagle rank. When Scouts see their peers succeeding through structured approaches and community engagement, it creates a culture where Eagle achievement becomes an expected outcome rather than a rare exception.
The following video showcases several award-winning Eagle Scout service projects, demonstrating the level of community impact that’s possible when Scouts combine passion with systematic planning:
In this video, 2021 Eagle Scout Project of the Year winner Christopher Adam shares the story behind his award-winning project “Liberation Point,” an exhibit honoring D-Day heroes. He discusses how he planned and built the project, incorporated symbolism, and rallied community support. Christopher also reflects on the inspiration, leadership, and life lessons gained through the process. He ends with advice and encouragement for future Eagle Scouts to pursue projects they are passionate about.
What Can Other States and Troops Learn?
States that consistently produce high numbers of Eagle Scouts share several key practices that any troop can adopt. The most successful programs focus on early planning and clear expectations. Rather than waiting until Life rank to discuss Eagle requirements, top-performing troops introduce advancement planning during a Scout’s first year. This approach helps Scouts understand the long-term commitment and builds momentum early.
Strong adult mentorship forms the backbone of successful Eagle programs. According to the Guide to Advancement, effective mentorship involves trained adults who understand both the technical requirements and the leadership development aspects of advancement. These mentors guide Scouts through challenges and help them reflect on their growth, supporting more than just checking off requirements.
Community partnerships create a steady pipeline of meaningful service opportunities. High-achieving troops actively cultivate relationships with local schools, religious institutions, parks departments, and nonprofit organizations. These partnerships ensure Scouts have access to projects that genuinely benefit their communities while meeting Eagle Scout service project requirements. The National Eagle Scout Association has documented how these community connections often lead to ongoing relationships that benefit both the Scout and the organization.
Troops that use peer check-ins see more advancement. These monthly meetings let Scouts support each other and share progress, making the journey to Eagle feel like a team effort. During these check-ins, Scouts share their current goals, discuss obstacles, and celebrate completed requirements. This system transforms advancement from an individual pursuit into a team effort.
Recognition events play a crucial role in maintaining momentum and celebrating achievements. Successful troops don’t wait for Eagle Courts of Honor to acknowledge progress. They hold regular advancement ceremonies, create bulletin board displays showcasing recent achievements, and invite families to witness rank advancements. These celebrations reinforce the value of advancement and inspire other Scouts to continue their journey.
| Practice | Implementation | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Early Planning | Introduce Eagle timeline during Scout’s first year | Reduces last-minute rushing, builds long-term commitment |
| Peer Accountability | Monthly progress check-ins between Scouts | Higher advancement rates, stronger patrol bonds |
| Community Partnerships | Formal relationships with local organizations | Consistent service opportunities, real community impact |
| Regular Recognition | Monthly advancement ceremonies and displays | Sustained motivation, family engagement |
The most effective troops also establish clear communication channels between Scouts, parents, and leaders. This includes regular advancement tracking, transparent requirements explanations, and consistent feedback on progress. When everyone understands expectations and timelines, Scouts can focus on learning and growing without confusion about requirements.
Successful programs emphasize the leadership development aspect of advancement rather than treating it as a checklist. Scouts learn to conduct post-action reviews after campouts, service projects, and leadership roles. They ask themselves: “How did I lead effectively? What would I do differently next time?” This reflection habit transforms experiences into wisdom and accelerates personal growth.
These practices work because they address the common challenges that prevent Scouts from reaching Eagle: lack of planning, insufficient support, limited service opportunities, and decreased motivation over time. Troops that adopt even two or three of these approaches typically see significant improvements in their Eagle Scout production rates within 12-18 months.
Quick Takeaways
- The numbers tell a clear story about Eagle Scout achievement across America. Utah consistently leads the nation in producing Eagle Scouts, with 9,723 Eagles in 2019 alone. California and Texas follow closely behind, creating a powerful trio of states that demonstrate what’s possible when communities rally around their Scouts.
- The achievement rate itself shows how challenging this rank truly is. Only about 4-6% of eligible Scouts earn Eagle each year, according to official Scouting America statistics. In 2018, exactly 6.49% of eligible Scouts reached Eagle rank. This percentage has remained remarkably consistent over the past decade, highlighting that earning Eagle requires sustained effort and commitment.
- What makes these top-performing states different comes down to three key factors: community support, mentorship quality, and resource accessibility. Utah’s success stems largely from a culture that deeply values Scouting, with families and communities viewing Eagle Scout as a meaningful milestone. California and Texas benefit from large, well-established councils with extensive volunteer networks and diverse service opportunities.
- In states where Eagle projects are common, Scouts regularly see peers finish big projects and develop leadership through action. Younger Scouts learn what’s possible by watching others succeed.
- The data shows that supporting Scouts through mentorship, planning, and partnerships leads to more Eagles. States with clear systems in place help more youth reach their goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state has the most Eagle Scouts?
Utah consistently leads the nation in Eagle Scout production, with over 5,700 Eagles earned annually in recent years. California follows closely with around 4,900 Eagle Scouts per year, while Texas rounds out the top three with approximately 4,100. These numbers reflect both the size of each state’s Scouting programs and the strength of their local Scouting cultures.
The dominance of these three states makes sense when you consider their large populations and established Scouting traditions. Utah’s particularly high rate stems from strong community support and cultural emphasis on youth development, while California and Texas benefit from their sheer size and diverse metropolitan areas with active troops.
What percentage of Scouts become Eagle Scouts?
Between 4 and 8 percent of eligible Scouts reach Eagle rank each year, depending on how eligibility is calculated. In 2018, exactly 6.49 percent of eligible Scouts earned Eagle, while 2019 saw 7.68 percent achieve the rank. The variation comes from different ways of counting who qualifies as “eligible” and changes in program participation over time.
This percentage has actually increased over the past decade. The traditional figure of “only 2 percent” that many people quote reflects older data and different counting methods. Today’s Scouts have better resources, clearer advancement tracking, and more systematic support from troops and councils.
What makes it easier for Scouts to earn Eagle in some states?
Successful Eagle Scout states share several key characteristics that create supportive environments for advancement. Strong community networks provide mentorship and project opportunities, while established Scouting cultures normalize the expectation that dedicated Scouts will pursue Eagle rank. Access to resources like merit badge counselors, project sites, and experienced adult leaders also plays a crucial role.
The most important factor is finding the right inputs for Eagle success. If you want the output of earning Eagle (the rank), you need specific inputs: consistent meeting attendance, systematic merit badge completion, and early project planning. States with high Eagle rates have figured out these systems and pass them down through generations of Scouting families and experienced leaders.
Geographic factors matter too. States with year-round outdoor access, established Scout camps, and strong partnerships with community organizations create more opportunities for Scouts to complete requirements and develop leadership skills through real-world application.
Has the number of Eagle Scouts changed over time?
Yes, the number of Eagle Scouts has grown significantly in recent years, with record-setting classes becoming more common. The Class of 2019 set a new record with 61,353 Eagles, surpassing the previous record of 58,659 from 2012. This growth reflects both improved advancement systems and increased participation in Scouting programs.
The upward trend comes from several factors working together. Better tracking systems help Scouts stay on course for advancement, while digital resources make merit badge requirements and project planning more accessible. Troops have also become more systematic about supporting Scouts through the Eagle process, rather than leaving advancement entirely up to individual initiative.
Program changes have contributed to this growth as well. The introduction of girls into Scouts BSA programs has expanded the pool of potential Eagles, while refinements to advancement procedures have made the path clearer for all participants.
Can girls earn the Eagle Scout rank?
Yes, girls have been eligible to earn Eagle Scout rank since February 2019, and they’re making remarkable achievements across the country. As of June 2023, more than 5,000 girls had earned the rank of Eagle Scout, with the first female Eagles achieving the rank in late 2019 and early 2020.
Female Eagle Scouts face the exact same requirements as their male counterparts—there are no modified standards or separate tracks. They complete the same 21 merit badges, demonstrate identical leadership requirements, and plan service projects of equal scope and impact. Currently, about 2.5% of all Eagle Scouts are female, a percentage that continues to grow as more girls join Scouting programs.
Since 2019, girls have earned the Eagle Scout rank by meeting the same requirements as boys. Female Eagles have led projects that benefit their communities and often bring new ideas to service and leadership.
For more detailed guidance on the Eagle Scout process, check out ScoutSmarts’ comprehensive Eagle Scout requirements guide, which breaks down each step of the advancement process with practical tips for success.
