Fact Check: New York's Muslim population is the largest in the U.S.

Fact Check: "New York's Muslim population is the largest in the U.S."

What We Know

The claim that New York has the largest Muslim population in the United States is supported by several sources. According to a 2018 study, there are over 750,000 Muslims living in New York City, which constitutes approximately 9% of the city's population and represents 22.3% of all American Muslims. Furthermore, the greater New York metropolitan area is reported to have around 1.5 million Muslims, making it the largest metropolitan Muslim population in the Americas (Islam in New York City).

In contrast, other states with significant Muslim populations include California and Illinois. For instance, California has a Muslim population estimated at over 400,000, while Illinois is reported to have a similar number (Muslim Population by State 2025). However, these figures do not surpass the estimates for New York City.

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes from credible sources, including demographic studies and census data. The 2020 United States Religion Census estimates that there are approximately 4.45 million Muslims in the U.S., with New York City being highlighted as having the largest concentration. This is further corroborated by the World Population Review, which indicates that New York maintains a significant Muslim population compared to other states.

However, it is important to note that while New York City has the largest Muslim population by city, the overall largest Muslim population by state is not definitively established in the sources reviewed. For instance, while New York City has a large number, California and Illinois also report substantial populations, and the figures can vary based on the definitions of metropolitan areas and the methodologies used in different studies (7 Largest Muslim Population In The US).

The sources used are generally reliable, with demographic data coming from reputable organizations and studies. However, the exact numbers can fluctuate due to the dynamic nature of migration and population changes, which may not be captured in every report.

Conclusion

Verdict: Needs Research

While there is strong evidence indicating that New York City has the largest Muslim population in the U.S., further research is needed to clarify the context of this claim, particularly when considering state-level populations and how they compare. The figures can vary based on different methodologies and definitions, and ongoing demographic changes may also affect these estimates.

Fact Check: New York's Muslim population is the largest in the U.S.