The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards reported a record-breaking year for the number of certified financial planner (CFP) professionals in the U.S.

In 2023, the total number of CFP certificate holders reached 98,875, a 3.9 percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, 9,839 individuals took the CFP exam in 2023, setting a new record for exam participation. The 2023 class of CFP professionals was notably diverse, with a higher representation of women and racially and ethnically diverse individuals. Of the 6,089 new CFP professionals, 56 percent were under the age of 35. The number of female planners increased by 11.5 percent, reaching a total of 23,484, constituting 23.8 percent of all CFP professionals.

Additionally, there was a 12.6 percent increase in racially and ethnically diverse professionals, totaling 9,408 and representing 9.5 percent of all CFP professionals. As reported by Financial Advisor, the board highlighted growth in Hispanic, Black, Asian or Pacific Islander, American Indian or Alaskan Native, and multi-ethnic CFP professionals.

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