Which USA City Has the Most Muslims?

The Muslim population in the United States has been growing steadily for decades. Many cities now have vibrant Muslim communities, mosques, and cultural centers. But which U.S. city has the most Muslims today? Let’s explore where Islam is thriving across America — and why.

The City With the Largest Muslim Population in the U.S.

1. New York City – The Nation’s Muslim Capital

New York City is widely recognized as the U.S. city with the largest Muslim population. Estimates suggest there are between 700,000 and 1 million Muslims living in the New York metropolitan area. That means about 9% of New Yorkers identify as Muslim, representing people from more than 75 different ethnic backgrounds — including African Americans, Arabs, South Asians, and West Africans.

Why NYC leads: Long history of Muslim immigration (especially from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Yemen), a large number of mosques (over 300 in the metro area), and strong community institutions and halal businesses.

Other U.S. Cities With Large Muslim Communities

While New York is at the top, several other American cities have significant Muslim populations too.

2. Dearborn, Michigan – A City of Strong Muslim Identity

Dearborn, near Detroit, is often called the heart of Arab-American culture. Nearly half of Dearborn’s residents are Muslim, mainly of Lebanese, Iraqi, and Yemeni descent. Despite its smaller size, Dearborn stands out because Islam is deeply integrated into daily life — from Arabic shop signs to community schools and local festivals.

3. Chicago, Illinois – Home to Diverse Muslim Communities

Chicago has one of the most diverse Muslim populations in the country, including African American, Bosnian, South Asian, and Middle Eastern Muslims. The Chicago metropolitan area is home to over 300,000 Muslims, making it a key center for Islamic education and cultural events.

4. Houston, Texas – Fast-Growing Muslim Population

Houston’s Muslim community has grown rapidly over the past two decades. It’s now estimated that over 150,000 Muslims live in the Houston metro area, supported by more than 100 mosques and Islamic centers. The city’s diversity and welcoming business environment attract Muslim professionals and families from around the world.

5. Los Angeles, California – A West Coast Hub for Muslims

Los Angeles has a large, multicultural Muslim population, with communities from Iran, Indonesia, Pakistan, and North Africa. The region’s Islamic cultural institutions, interfaith programs, and halal food scene make it one of the most dynamic Muslim centers in the western U.S.

States With the Highest Muslim Populations

If you look at Muslim populations by state, the top ones are New York, California, Texas, Michigan, Illinois, and New Jersey. These states attract immigrants due to job opportunities, established communities, and educational institutions.

Why Muslim Populations Are Growing in U.S. Cities

There are several reasons behind this steady growth: immigration (many Muslims move to the U.S. for education, work, or family reunification), slightly higher birth rates among Muslim families, growing numbers of converts — since Islam is one of the fastest-growing religions in the U.S. — and strong networks of mosques and cultural organizations that help newcomers feel at home.

Summary: The City With the Most Muslims in the USA

Rank	City	Estimated Muslim Population	Key Features
1	New York City, NY	~1,000,000	Largest and most diverse
2	Dearborn, MI	~60,000	Highest concentration
3	Chicago, IL	~300,000	Strong African American Muslim heritage
4	Houston, TX	~150,000	Rapid growth
5	Los Angeles, CA	~120,000	Global cultural mix

Final Thoughts

So, which U.S. city has the most Muslims? The clear answer is New York City — a true melting pot where Muslims from every corner of the world live, work, and worship side by side. From the bustling mosques of Brooklyn to the halal markets in Queens, New York showcases the diversity and strength of Islam in America today.