The Arab-American community is a vibrant and growing part of the United States’ multicultural landscape. With roots stretching back over a century, Arab-Americans have made significant contributions to business, politics, education, and culture. But where are Arab populations most densely concentrated in the U.S.?
Here’s a look at the key locations and the reasons behind these community centers.
Top States With Large Arab Populations
According to U.S. Census and American Community Survey data, the largest Arab-American populations are found in:
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Michigan
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City Spotlight: Dearborn
Often considered the capital of Arab America, Dearborn, Michigan is home to one of the largest concentrations of Arabs outside the Middle East—particularly Lebanese and Iraqi communities. -
Arab-Americans in Michigan have deep roots, with waves of immigration dating back to the early 1900s. Today, Arab culture is reflected in local businesses, schools, and even city politics.
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California
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Major hubs include Los Angeles, Anaheim, and parts of the Bay Area.
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California’s Arab population is highly diverse, with representation from Egypt, Syria, Palestine, and Yemen.
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New York
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Brooklyn, Queens, and Yonkers have historically attracted Arab immigrants, particularly from Lebanon, Egypt, and Yemen.
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The state’s economic opportunities and access to major Arab consulates and community organizations help maintain these ties.
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Illinois
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Chicago’s southwest suburbs, such as Bridgeview and Orland Park, have growing Arab communities—particularly Palestinians and Jordanians.
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Texas and Florida
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Both states have growing Arab-American populations, especially in cities like Houston, Dallas, Orlando, and Tampa.
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Other Notable Arab-American Centers
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Paterson, New Jersey: Known as “Little Ramallah,” this city is home to a large Palestinian-American population.
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Toledo, Ohio: A significant Arab presence—mostly Lebanese and Syrian.
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Phoenix, Arizona & Minneapolis, Minnesota: Both have growing Arab refugee and immigrant populations, including from Iraq and Somalia (ethnically Arab-speaking in some cases).
Why These Areas?
Several factors attract Arab immigrants to these cities:
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Family and community networks
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Job opportunities and economic hubs
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Religious and cultural institutions, like mosques and Arab community centers
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Refugee resettlement programs
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Affordable housing and supportive immigrant infrastructure
The Arab-American Population by Numbers
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The Arab American Institute estimates that over 3.7 million Arab Americans live in the United States.
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The top countries of origin include: Lebanon, Egypt, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, Yemen, and Jordan.
Arab-Americans are not a monolith, but a mosaic of cultures, dialects, religions, and traditions. From Dearborn to Paterson, the Arab presence in the U.S. continues to shape neighborhoods, influence politics, and contribute to the American story. As these communities grow, they maintain strong ties to heritage while embracing American life—offering a powerful example of cultural integration and resilience.