Muslims in Florida: A Flourishing and Diverse Community Across the Sunshine State
From Tampa Bay’s vibrant hubs to evolving Islamic identity and institutional growth statewide.
Florida is home to an estimated 127,172 Muslims, accounting for approximately 0.6% of the state’s population—placing it 12th in the U.S. by Muslim population size.
In the Tampa Bay area specifically, community estimates suggest up to 500,000 Muslims statewide and over 150 mosques and Islamic centers serving Florida’s Muslim communities—from the Keys to the Panhandle.
Demographics & Community Makeup
The Muslim population in Florida is diverse—about 31% are U.S.-born, while 69% originate from countries like Pakistan, India, Egypt, Palestine, Guyana, and Puerto Rico.
Tampa’s Temple Terrace–New Tampa corridor stands out as a cultural and commercial Muslim enclave. There, you’ll find an abundance of mosques, Islamic schools, halal restaurants, Arabic and Urdu signage, and other Muslim-owned businesses—some estimates suggest as high as 70% of businesses in the area are Muslim-owned.
Institutions & Identity Centers
In South Florida, organizations like the Islamic Foundation of South Florida focus on “nurturing the Muslim identity in contemporary North American society” and combating stereotypes through outreach and education.
The Muslim Community of Palm Beach County (MCPBC), founded in 1985, is the region’s largest Muslim organization, providing daily prayers, youth education, interfaith dialogue, and community outreach.
Meanwhile, the South Florida Muslim Federation and its initiative SoFlo Muslims serve as central hubs connecting over 40 mosques and Muslim organizations across Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties.
Cultural Growth & Identity
Orlando exemplifies welcoming growth: its Muslim population soared from around 2,700 in 2000 to more than 27,000 by 2010, and continues to grow. Local Muslim leaders note a strong sense of community acceptance and support in the area.
Such communities foster cultural identity through Islamic schools, which act as cultural hubs—providing spiritual education alongside academic learning, and hosting events like Eid celebrations, community outreach, and Quran recitation competitions.
Notable Muslim voices & Advocacy
Ahmed Bedier, based in Tampa, is a prominent Muslim rights advocate and media commentator. He leads United Voices for America and the Human Rights Council of Tampa Bay, and is active in the ACLU of Florida. He also co-hosts the FM radio show True Talk, which discusses global events from a Muslim perspective.
Florida’s Muslim community is vibrant, dynamic, and growing, anchored by diverse institutions and cultural hubs. From Tampa’s bustling enclaves to Orlando’s expanding neighborhoods, the community reflects a rich mosaic of ethnic backgrounds, identities, and civic participation.
