The U.S. Census Bureau's standard racial and ethnic categories often fall short of reflecting how communities define themselves, and don't reflect the composition and quality of life of diverse Minnesotans throughout the state. We developed data profiles for 27 of the largest cultural communities in Minnesota, including African American, Chinese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Hmong, Indian, Korean, Mexican, Native American, Somali, Vietnamese, and more, based on a combination of self-reported race, ancestry, birthplace, and parental characteristics. We provide data on cultural communities to better reflect, understand and support these communities, and their specific strengths and needs.

Fast facts

Nearly 4 in 10 Mexican Minnesotans live outside of the Twin Cities

38% of Mexican Minnesotans live in greater Minnesota.
38 %

More than 9 in 10 Hmong Minnesotans live in the Twin Cities

94% of Hmong Minnesotans live in the Twin Cities metro area.
94 %

Nearly 9 in 10 Somali-headed households live in rental housing

90% of Somali-headed households in Minnesota are renter households.
90 %
Cultural community Sort ascending Population
White non-Hispanic 4,424,396
Vietnamese 32,752
Ukrainian 19,166
Thai 5,538
Somali 82,890
Salvadoran 14,441
Puerto Rican 17,987
Nigerian 11,680
Native American 167,371
Minnesota 5,600,166
Mexican 214,234
Liberian 19,350
Lebanese 7,167
Lao (non-Hmong) 15,933
Korean 28,037
Kenyan 16,798
Japanese 12,861
Indian 55,349
Hmong 88,251
Guatemalan 11,425
Filipino 23,270
Ethiopian 34,142
Ecuadorian 12,265
Cuban 8,009
Colombian 7,802
Chinese 41,673
Cambodian 10,630
Burmese 14,781
African American 241,559