The YMCA — one of the largest nonprofit community service organizations in the United States — operates thousands of branch locations that bring together people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities through fitness, wellness, youth development, and community support programs. Founded in 1844, the Y has grown into a network that serves more than 21 million men, women, and children across the country each year.
There are 52 states with YMCA locations across the United States. With over 2,600 branches in communities large and small, the YMCA is one of the most geographically widespread community organizations in the nation, providing services from inner-city neighborhoods to rural towns.
YMCA in the United States
Browsing by state helps you find the YMCA branches nearest to you, understand their program offerings and operating hours, and learn about financial assistance options that may make membership and programming accessible to your household regardless of income level.
Common Services
- Full-facility fitness center access including weight rooms, cardio equipment, gymnasiums, and indoor pools
- Youth sports programs, summer day camps, and before- and after-school childcare
- Group fitness classes including aqua aerobics, yoga, Zumba, cycling, and senior wellness programs
- Early childhood education, licensed childcare, and preschool programs at many branch locations
Visitor tip: Most YMCAs offer a free trial visit so you can tour the facility and try a class before committing to a membership. Financial assistance is available at the majority of branches — ask to speak with a membership services staff member about the scholarship or sliding-scale fee program. Some programs fill up quickly, so register early for summer camps and childcare.
For official information, visit YMCA of the USA — ymca.org.
About YMCA
Each YMCA branch in the United States operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization affiliated with YMCA of the USA (Y-USA), the national resource organization based in Chicago. Local YMCAs are governed by volunteer boards of directors drawn from the community and are funded through a combination of membership dues, program fees, charitable donations, government grants, and United Way allocations. Many local YMCAs partner directly with city and county governments to operate publicly funded recreation centers, manage park facilities, or administer social service programs.
Common Services
- LIVESTRONG at the YMCA — free cancer survivor wellness program available at participating branches
- Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) — CDC-recognized group lifestyle intervention for at-risk adults
- Swim lessons for all ages, lifeguard certification courses, and competitive swim team programs
- Senior active adult programs including SilverSneakers fitness and social engagement activities
To find out whether your health insurance plan covers YMCA membership — many Medicare Advantage and commercial plans include a gym benefit — contact your insurance provider or ask the YMCA membership desk to check your plan. Membership at one YMCA often grants access to branches in other communities through the nationwide member network.
For official information, visit YMCA of the USA — ymca.org.