Below is a bar chart showing approximate numbers of missing children reported across different U.S. states. States like Ohio, California, and Texas top the list — Ohio's count includes numerous repeat runaways, while California and Texas are large population centers with major trafficking routes. Other states, such as Florida, Arizona, and New York, also show higher counts, reflecting factors like large youth populations, border proximity, or robust reporting systems.
This doughnut chart illustrates the relative proportions of key categories: runaways/thrownaways, trafficking/exploitation, parental abductions, and children missing from foster care. According to recent data, runaways account for the vast majority of missing-child cases. A smaller but significant portion of children become victims of trafficking—predominantly vulnerable youth who leave home seeking basic necessities or fleeing abuse. Family abductions represent a modest fraction but can still number in the hundreds or thousands annually. Lastly, foster care runaways highlight systemic challenges within child welfare programs, as these youth often remain at higher risk.