While the United States is known for its diverse and dynamic economy, a significant and often overlooked contributor is the religious sector. The economic impact of religion in the U.S. is not limited to the direct revenue of religious institutions but extends to a vast network of businesses, social services, and volunteer efforts. This "religious economy," estimated to be a massive enterprise, plays a crucial role in the nation's financial and social landscape, providing valuable services and generating substantial economic activity that eases the burden on public resources.

The scale of this religious economy is staggering. According to a 2016 study by Brian Grim and Melissa Grim, the annual value of the religious sector was estimated at $1.2 trillion. This figure encompasses a wide array of activities, from the operational spending of congregations to the value of religiously affiliated schools, hospitals, and charities. When compared to the U.S. nominal GDP, which for 2024 is projected to be around $30.5 trillion, the religious economy represents approximately 3.9% of the total economic output. This percentage highlights the immense scale of this sector, underscoring its influence on the national economy. This contribution is not merely a theoretical number; it represents a tangible economic force that rivals the GDP of many nations, demonstrating that religion is a quiet but powerful economic powerhouse.