The real estate market across America employs over 1.5 million real estate agents. But how many of those can legally call themselves realtors?
As a small business consultant helping entrepreneurs thrive in competitive markets, I‘ve done extensive research into the size and makeup of the realtor profession.
Here’s an in-depth look at key stats revealing just how many certified realtors are operating in the US today.
Over 1.3 Million Licensed Real Estate Agents vs. 1.5 Million Realtor Members
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports over 1,599,807 realtor members as of June 2023. This represents a slight decrease from 1,608,708 in 2024.
Meanwhile, the overall number of licensed real estate agents in the US is estimated at between 1.5 and 3 million. About 1.3 million are active licensees.
So why is the number of licensed agents so much higher than the number of NAR realtors?
It comes down to the Realtor trademark. You must be a paid member of NAR to call yourself a "realtor." Licensed agents who aren‘t members can only refer to themselves as real estate agents, brokers, or salespeople.
Many choose not to join NAR to save on membership fees. But NAR membership offers benefits like professional development, networking, and the Realtor brand reputation.
NAR also holds members to a higher ethical standard through its Code of Ethics. As a small business expert, I always recommend clients work with NAR realtors.
The Top 5 States With the Most Realtors
Where are all these realtors located? Here are the top five states by number of NAR realtor members:
| State | # of Realtors |
|---|---|
| Florida | 218,906 |
| California | 202,970 |
| Texas | 148,424 |
| New York | 62,971 |
| Georgia | 45,288 |
Florida tops the list with over 200,000 realtors — about 14% of the total US realtor population.
What makes the Sunshine State such a hotspot for real estate pros? Florida‘s booming population growth, lack of state income tax, and popularity as a vacation destination and retirement haven all help drive massive demand for agents there.
California and Texas round out the top three due to their huge overall populations and thriving job markets in cities like LA, San Diego, Houston, and Austin.
Most Realtors Are Older, White Females
What does the typical American realtor look like? According to NAR’s 2022 Member Profile study:
- 60 years old – Median age
- 65% women / 35% men
- 79% white
The realtor profession trends older, female, and white compared to the overall US population and workforce.
Many realtors start second careers in real estate after retiring from their first jobs. Women may be drawn to realty’s flexible schedules compared to corporate 9-5 office jobs.
Meanwhile, the Black population is severely underrepresented — only 6% of realtors versus 12% of the US population overall.
As a consultant who values diversity, I always encourage minority entrepreneurs to explore real estate. This field needs more women, people of color, and younger professionals.
The Million-Dollar Question: How Many Home Sales Do Realtors Make?
Here‘s the stat that make rookie realtors shudder:
- The average realtor sells just 12 homes per year.
Selling one home per month may sound dismal. But a few caveats:
- Top producing realtors sell 20+ homes annually. Some luxury specialists sell just a handful for higher commissions.
- 54% of realtors work part time. Their limited hours impact sales volume.
- Many receive other income streams like referral fees, rentals, and property management.
- It takes work to build your business as a new realtor. Patience and persistence pay off.
As a consultant, my advice for new realtors is to set reasonable goals. Start with aiming for just 4-8 sales in your first year while you gain experience. Leverage social media and video tours to attract new business.
Why Become a Realtor? Rewards Beyond Sales Volumes
You may be wondering — why bother becoming a realtor if sales volumes appear low?
While commissions and flexible scheduling attract many, money shouldn‘t be the only motivator. Top reasons to pursue this career include:
- Helping turn dreams of homeownership into reality
- Getting to know local communities on a deeper level
- Being your own boss and building a business
- Utilizing creativity and problem-solving skills
Choose real estate for the right reasons, focus on delivering excellent service, and the sales will follow in due time.
The Takeaway: A Diverse, Multifaceted Industry Undergoing Change
The realtor industry remains vast and multifaceted. While dominated by older white females, a new generation of tech-savvy, diverse realtors is beginning to emerge.
Shifting demographics and tech adoption continue reshaping best practices. For both new and seasoned realtors, embracing change is key to thriving in this competitive but rewarding profession.
The bottom line? Real estate offers endless entrepreneurial potential if you have the skills, mindset, and passion for helping people realize their housing dreams.
