So, how many Irish Americans are there? About 32.4 million people in the United States claimed Irish ancestry in 2024, or 9.5% of the population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The 2020 Census, which asked the question a different way, counted 38.6 million Americans who identified as Irish alone or in combination with another group.
Quick answer: Irish Americans by the numbers
- 38.6 million Americans identified as Irish, alone or in combination, in the 2020 Census, the third largest White group after English and German.
- 32.4 million people (9.5% of U.S. residents) claimed Irish ancestry in the 2024 American Community Survey, the latest figures published.
- 116,641 people living in the U.S. in 2024 were born in Ireland.
- That makes Irish Americans roughly six to seven times the population of Ireland, which the CSO put at 5,525,600 in April 2026.
- California, New York and Pennsylvania have the most Irish Americans, while New Hampshire and Massachusetts have the highest share.
The Irish have profoundly influenced the cultural and social fabric of the United States, with millions of Americans proudly claiming Irish heritage. This article delves into the historical journey of Irish immigration, the current demographics of Irish Americans, and their enduring impact on American society.
A Historical Overview of Irish Immigration to America
Irish migration to America began as early as the 17th century. The initial wave consisted predominantly of Protestant settlers from Ulster, known as the Scots-Irish, who sought religious freedom and economic opportunities. The 19th century witnessed a significant surge in Irish immigration, especially during the Great Famine of the 1840s, which compelled around half a million Irish to seek refuge in the United States within five years. This influx continued into the early 20th century, with many Irish immigrants settling in urban centres and contributing to the nation’s industrial growth.
According to the Library of Congress, the Irish made up nearly half of all immigrants to the United States in the 1840s. The Famine remains one of the events that shaped modern Ireland, and its effects can still be seen in how many Americans trace their roots back across the Atlantic.
Current Demographics: How Many Irish in America?
‘How many Irish are in America?’ and ‘how many people claim Irish descent in America?’ are two different questions. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, approximately 38.6 million Americans identified as being of Irish descent, either alone or in combination with other ancestries.
The most recent figure comes from the American Community Survey. In 2024, 32.4 million people claimed Irish ancestry, or 9.5% of everyone living in the U.S. The two numbers don’t match because they come from different questions: the 2020 Census figure is based on the write-in answers to its race question, while the American Community Survey asks people about their ancestry directly. Either way, Irish Americans run to tens of millions. The Census Bureau is due to publish its 2025 ancestry estimates on 29 October 2026.
The number of Americans claiming Irish ancestry has drifted down since 1990, when 38.7 million people named it, but it has stayed between 30 million and 35 million for the last 15 years and rose again to 32.4 million in 2024. Tap through the years below to see how the numbers have changed:
Irish America by year
How many Irish Americans are there, year by year?
Tap a bar to see that year. Switch between Irish ancestry and people born in Ireland.
See the data
| Year | Irish ancestry | Born in Ireland | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 38.7 million (15.6%) | n/a | 1990 Census |
| 2000 | 30,524,799 (10.8%) | n/a | Census 2000 |
| 2010 | 34.7 million | n/a | ACS 1-year |
| 2011 | 34.5 million | n/a | ACS 1-year |
| 2012 | 34.1 million | n/a | ACS 1-year |
| 2013 | 33.3 million | n/a | ACS 1-year |
| 2014 | 33.1 million (10.4%) | n/a | ACS 1-year |
| 2015 | 32.7 million (10.2%) | 120,144 | ACS 1-year |
| 2016 | 32.3 million (10.0%) | 125,840 | ACS 1-year |
| 2019 | 30.4 million (9.2%) | 111,886 | ACS 1-year |
| 2021 | 31.5 million (9.5%) | 118,539 | ACS 1-year |
| 2022 | 30.7 million (9.2%) | 112,251 | ACS 1-year |
| 2023 | 30.5 million (9.1%) | 117,219 | ACS 1-year |
| 2024 | 32.4 million (9.5%) | 116,641 | ACS 1-year |
According to Irish Central this figure represents about 16.4% of the nation's White population. This number is nearly seven times the current population of Ireland, which stands at around 5.5 million. The Irish American community is one of the largest ethnic groups in the U.S., following those of German and English descent.
The Census Bureau's own breakdown puts English (46.6 million) and German (45 million) just ahead of Irish (38.6 million), out of more than 235 million people who reported being White alone or in combination. Back in Ireland, the Central Statistics Office estimated the population at 5,525,600 in April 2026.
| Measure | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Irish alone or in combination | 38.6 million | 2020 Census |
| People claiming Irish ancestry | 32.4 million (9.5%) | American Community Survey, 2024 |
| U.S. residents born in Ireland | 116,641 | American Community Survey, 2024 |
| Irish ancestry in Cook County, Illinois | 436,577 (8.4%) | American Community Survey, 2024 |
| Population of Ireland | 5,525,600 | CSO, April 2026 |
Here's how those numbers stack up against Ireland itself:
As for how many Irish are in America, this can fluctuate because America is a very popular destination for Irish tourists and at any one time there could be thousands, if not tens of thousands, of visitors.
Those born in Ireland are a much smaller group. The Census Bureau counted 116,641 Irish-born residents in 2024, so the vast majority of Irish Americans are the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of emigrants rather than emigrants themselves.
Geographical Distribution of Irish Americans
The distribution of Irish Americans varies across the country. California has the largest number, with around 2.3 million residents claiming Irish ancestry, followed by New York State with almost 2.1 million. Pennsylvania follows closely, with approximately 1.9 million. In terms of concentration, New England states lead the way. New Hampshire has the highest percentage, with 20.6% of its population being of Irish descent, followed by Massachusetts at 18.6%.
Boston is the obvious example, and our guide to the Irish in Boston shows just how deep those roots go. California's lead is mostly down to its sheer size, as only 5.9% of its residents claim Irish ancestry, and our guide to the Irish in Los Angeles covers the community on the West Coast. At county level, Cook County in Illinois, home to Chicago, has the largest Irish American population at 436,577 people.
| Rank | Most Irish Americans | Highest share of population |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | California: 2,301,721 | New Hampshire: 20.6% |
| 2 | New York: 2,087,330 | Massachusetts: 18.6% |
| 3 | Pennsylvania: 1,928,283 | Vermont: 16.8% |
| 4 | Florida: 1,838,284 | Maine: 16.5% |
| 5 | Texas: 1,801,243 | Rhode Island: 16.1% |
Hire an Irish genealogy researcher in the United States to find out about your Irish heritage and rediscover your past.
Cultural Impact and Legacy of Irish Americans
The Irish have left an indelible mark on American culture. Traditions such as St. Patrick's Day are celebrated nationwide, reflecting the widespread embrace of Irish heritage. Irish Americans have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, literature, music, and the arts. Notable figures of Irish descent include President John F. Kennedy, author F. Scott Fitzgerald, and dancer Michael Flatley, all of whom have played pivotal roles in shaping American society.
Since 1991, March has also been Irish-American Heritage Month, with the President issuing a proclamation each year. The political side of the story has changed a lot over the decades, and our look at Irish America's influence in Washington explains how.
Challenges and Triumphs for Irish Americans
The journey of Irish immigrants was fraught with challenges. Upon arrival, many faced discrimination and economic hardships. Despite these obstacles, the Irish community persevered, establishing strong neighbourhoods, churches, and social organisations that provided support and fostered a sense of community. Over time, Irish Americans have achieved significant socio-economic advancements, integrating seamlessly into the broader American society while preserving their rich cultural heritage.
The Irish American Identity Today
Today, Irish Americans continue to celebrate their heritage through festivals, music, dance, and the preservation of Gaelic language and traditions. Organisations across the country work diligently to maintain and promote Irish culture, ensuring that the legacy of their ancestors endures for future generations.
For many families, a surname is the first clue to an Irish connection. Our list of American Irish surnames is a good place to start if you're wondering where yours comes from.
For Americans with Irish connections, these statistics underscore the profound and enduring bond between Ireland and the United States. The Irish American community continues to play a vital role in the nation's cultural and social fabric, celebrating a shared heritage that bridges the Atlantic.
In conclusion, the Irish American experience is a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and the enduring quest for a better life. The significant number of Americans with Irish ancestry highlights the deep-rooted connections between the two nations, connections that continue to thrive and evolve in contemporary society.
Irish Americans: FAQs
How many Irish Americans are there in 2026?
The latest published figure is 32.4 million people claiming Irish ancestry, from the 2024 American Community Survey. That is 9.5% of the U.S. population. The 2020 Census counted 38.6 million Americans who identified as Irish alone or in combination.
Why do the numbers of Irish Americans differ?
They come from different surveys asking different questions. The 2020 Census figure is based on write-in answers to the race question, while the American Community Survey asks people about their ancestry, so the 2020 Census total is higher.
Are there more Irish Americans than people in Ireland?
Yes. With 32.4 million to 38.6 million Irish Americans, depending on the source, there are roughly six to seven times as many Irish Americans as there are people in Ireland, which had 5,525,600 people in April 2026.
Which state has the most Irish Americans?
California has the most, with around 2.3 million people claiming Irish ancestry, ahead of New York and Pennsylvania. New Hampshire has the highest share, at about 20.6% of its population.
How many people born in Ireland live in the United States?
The Census Bureau counted 116,641 U.S. residents born in Ireland in 2024. Most Irish Americans are descendants of emigrants rather than emigrants themselves.
Can Irish Americans get Irish citizenship?
Many can. If one of your grandparents was born on the island of Ireland, you can apply to the Foreign Births Register, and you become an Irish citizen once you are entered on it. After that, you can apply for an Irish passport, and our guide on renewing an Irish passport in the USA covers what comes next.
