Immigration continues to shape the American story, with distinct communities forming across the country.
From coast to coast, certain immigrant groups have established deep roots in specific states, influencing local culture, cuisine, and economy.
Kalshi traders think there’s a good chance Trump will make moves to deport at least 250,000 people, but they are part and parcel of America.
Using the most recent Census and DHS data, here’s a look at the largest immigrant populations in the U. S. — and where they’ve settled.
China
Chinese immigrants are among the largest Asian populations in the U.S., with over 2.5 million residents. California is home to the highest number, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. New York and Texas also host large communities, often centered around tech hubs and academic institutions.
Cuba
Cuban immigrants, roughly 1.3 million strong, are concentrated in Florida — particularly Miami, which is often referred to as the Cuban capital of the U.S. Their cultural, political, and economic influence in the state is unmatched, though smaller populations have spread to New Jersey and Texas.
Dominican Republic
About 1.1 million Dominican immigrants reside in the U.S., with the vast majority clustered in the Northeast. New York, especially the Bronx and Washington Heights in Manhattan, is the epicenter of Dominican culture and political representation.
El Salvador
Salvadorans make up one of the largest Central American groups in the U.S., with about 1.4 million residents. Most live in California, Texas, and the D.C. metro area — particularly in Maryland and Virginia — where they’ve built strong family and labor networks.
Guatemala
With over 1 million Guatemalan immigrants, the largest populations are found in California, Florida, and Texas. Many work in agriculture, construction, and service sectors, contributing significantly to local economies, especially in rural and suburban areas.
India
Indian immigrants, totaling more than 2.7 million, are concentrated in New Jersey, California, and Texas. Many are highly educated and work in IT, medicine, and engineering, creating vibrant communities in suburbs like Edison, Fremont, and Plano.
Mexico
By far the largest immigrant group, with over 10 million residents, Mexican immigrants are primarily found in California, Texas, Arizona, and Illinois. Their influence is deeply woven into the culture, food, and politics of the Southwest and beyond.
Philippines
Roughly 2 million Filipinos live in the U.S., with major communities in California, Nevada, and Hawaii. Many work in health care — particularly nursing — and have deep ties to military service and Catholic Church communities.
South Korea
Over 1 million Korean immigrants live in the U.S., mostly in California (particularly Los Angeles), New York, and New Jersey. Their impact is seen in small businesses, churches, and cultural hubs like Koreatown in L.A.
Vietnam
Vietnamese immigrants, around 1.4 million, are highly concentrated in California and Texas, especially in areas like Orange County and Houston. Many fled after the Vietnam War and have established resilient, thriving communities.
