The best source of information on the population status of American White Pelican is the Breeding Bird Survey (BBS). Overall reliability of the BBS is considered medium, and better than all other available data sources, as it offers good coverage of the breeding range and moderate precision in its trend. BBS data indicate a large long-term increase in abundance since the early 1970s. Large increases have occurred in all Canadian Bird Conservation Regions that host the species and for which there are reasonably reliable results. The continental Christmas Bird Count also provides data on this species, although only on individuals wintering in the United States and is less specific to the Canadian population. Consistent with the BBS, it also shows a large increase in population size.

The goal for American White Pelican is to remain at or above its recent population level, based on the Breeding Bird Survey. Trend data show that American White Pelican is currently within its goal range.