Muslims in Alabama: A Growing and Resilient Community in the Bible Belt
Exploring history, demographics, places of worship, and the vibrant Muslim presence across Alabama.
Islam in Alabama traces its roots back to the African diaspora during the era of slavery, when enslaved Africans brought Islamic traditions that they preserved through oral practices and covert gatherings. In the late 20th century, Alabama saw a rise in formal Islamic institutions: the first mosque, Masjid Al-Islam, was established in Tuskegee in 1968, marking a milestone in the visibility and organization of the Muslim community.
Since then, the growth has continued. By 2011, the state had built 31 mosques, largely driven by both African-American converts and immigrant populations.
Demographics and Community Size
As of 2024, Alabama’s Muslim population is estimated at approximately 25,000 individuals. This figure aligns with estimates from state rankings listing about 23,550 Muslims in the state as of 2025.
In terms of percentage, Muslims make up around 0.5% to 1% of Alabama’s population according to different surveys. The 2008 American Religious Identification Survey placed Muslims—and other non-Christian faiths—at about 0.5% each, while more recent data from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) estimates a Muslim share of approximately 0.5%–1% of adults.
Places of Worship and Community Life
Beyond Tuskegee’s historic mosque, the Muslim presence is active in cities like Huntsville and Madison, where institutions such as the Huntsville Islamic Center offer religious services, educational programs, community engagement, and school facilities for preschool through 8th grade.
In Dothan, the community is represented by two mosques, underscoring a network of religious infrastructure across the state.
Cultural and Social Contributions
Muslims in Alabama contribute richly to the state’s diversity and social fabric. This includes engagement in education, medicine, business, and the arts, alongside efforts to foster interfaith dialogue and broader community cohesion.
Challenges and Resilience
Like many Muslim communities across the U.S., Muslims in Alabama have faced challenges such as Islamophobia and stereotyping—especially during post-9/11 tensions. Yet the community’s resilience is evident in their commitment to outreach, interfaith engagement, and preserving cultural traditions
