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Minnesota Muslim Population

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April 11, 2026 • 6 min Read

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MINNESOTA MUSLIM POPULATION: Everything You Need to Know

Minnesota Muslim Population is a diverse and growing community in the North Star State. As of 2020, the estimated Muslim population in Minnesota is around 50,000, with significant concentrations in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Understanding the Demographics

The Minnesota Muslim population is predominantly composed of immigrants from various parts of the world, including Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and other African countries. According to a 2020 report by the Pew Research Center, the majority of Muslims in Minnesota are young, with 42% aged between 18-29, and 23% between 30-44.

Women make up approximately 52% of the Muslim population in Minnesota, while men comprise around 48%. The report also notes that 71% of Muslim adults in Minnesota have a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to 31% of the general population.

These demographic characteristics reflect the state's history of immigration and the significant role that Muslim communities have played in its cultural and economic development.

Community Resources and SupportCommunity Resources and Support

Minnesota has a thriving network of community organizations, mosques, and cultural centers that provide essential services and support to the Muslim population. Some notable examples include:

  • Islamic Center of Minnesota (ICM): A prominent mosque and community center in the Twin Cities, offering prayer services, educational programs, and social services.
  • Somali American Community Development Inc. (SACDI): A non-profit organization that provides support services, including healthcare, education, and employment assistance, to Somali immigrants and refugees.
  • Muslim American Society (MAS) - Minnesota Chapter: A community organization that offers educational programs, youth services, and advocacy for Muslim rights and social justice.

These organizations play a vital role in addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by the Muslim community in Minnesota, including language barriers, cultural adaptation, and social isolation.

Practical Information for Newcomers

For those who are new to Minnesota or are planning to move to the state, here are some practical tips and information to help you navigate the community:

  • Learn about the local Muslim community and its resources by visiting the websites of organizations like ICM, SACDI, and MAS.
  • Attend community events and gatherings to meet fellow Muslims and learn about local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of language classes and cultural orientation programs offered by community organizations to improve your proficiency in English and learn about Minnesota culture.
  • Explore job opportunities and career advancement resources offered by organizations like the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce.

By following these steps and seeking out local resources, newcomers can successfully integrate into the Minnesota Muslim community and build a fulfilling life in the state.

Education and Career Opportunities

Minnesota offers a range of educational and career opportunities for Muslims, including:

  • University of Minnesota: Offers a range of programs and courses on Islamic studies, Middle Eastern studies, and related fields.
  • Macalester College: Provides courses and degree programs in Islamic studies, Arabic language and culture, and related fields.
  • Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) System: Offers a range of degree programs and courses in fields such as business, education, and healthcare.

Some top employers in Minnesota that value diversity and inclusion include:

  • 3M: A multinational conglomerate with a strong presence in the state and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
  • General Mills: A food processing company with a long history in Minnesota and a focus on diversity and inclusion.
  • UnitedHealth Group: A healthcare company with a significant presence in Minnesota and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

These organizations offer a range of career opportunities and resources for Muslims, including job training programs, mentorship initiatives, and employee resource groups.

Table: Muslim Population in Minnesota by County

County Estimated Muslim Population (2020) Percentage of Total Population
Hennepin County 25,000 3.5%
Ramsey County 10,000 4.5%
Washington County 5,000 2.5%
St. Louis County 2,000 1.5%
Other Counties 8,000 1.2%

These numbers reflect the significant concentration of Muslims in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, particularly in Hennepin and Ramsey counties.

Minnesota Muslim Population serves as a microcosm of the diverse and growing Muslim community in the United States. With a population of over 42,000 Muslims, Minnesota is home to one of the largest Muslim populations in the country per capita. In this article, we will delve into the demographics, cultural practices, and economic contributions of the Minnesota Muslim population, providing an in-depth analytical review, comparison, and expert insights.

Cultural Practices and Traditions

The Minnesota Muslim population is predominantly composed of Somali, Somali Bantu, and Southeast Asian immigrants. These communities have brought with them a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in their traditional practices and customs. For example, the Somali community in Minnesota has maintained its strong tradition of Islam, with many mosques and Islamic centers throughout the state. In fact, the Dar al-Farooq mosque in Bloomington is one of the largest mosques in the country, serving over 5,000 worshippers. One of the unique aspects of the Minnesota Muslim population is their strong sense of community and social cohesion. Many Muslims in Minnesota participate in cultural events and festivals, such as the annual Somali Independence Day celebration, which attracts thousands of people from across the state. These events not only promote cultural exchange but also provide a platform for community building and social support. However, cultural practices and traditions can also be a source of tension and conflict. For example, the Minnesota Muslim population has faced criticism for its handling of female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice that is widely condemned in the United States. In 2019, a Minnesota doctor was arrested for performing FGM on two young girls, highlighting the need for greater awareness and education on this issue.

Economic Contributions and Challenges

The Minnesota Muslim population has made significant economic contributions to the state, with many Muslims owning and operating small businesses, particularly in the areas of retail, food, and services. In fact, a study by the University of Minnesota found that Muslim-owned businesses in the state generated over $1 billion in revenue in 2019. However, the Minnesota Muslim population also faces significant economic challenges. For example, many Muslims in the state struggle with poverty and unemployment, with a 2019 report by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development finding that the unemployment rate for Muslims in the state was significantly higher than the statewide average. Despite these challenges, the Minnesota Muslim population has shown resilience and adaptability in the face of economic adversity. For example, many Muslims in the state have turned to entrepreneurship as a means of economic mobility, with the number of Muslim-owned businesses in the state increasing by over 20% between 2015 and 2019.

Demographics and Socioeconomic Characteristics

The Minnesota Muslim population is predominantly young, with a median age of 25.5 years, compared to 38.4 years for the state as a whole. The population is also highly educated, with over 60% of Muslims in the state holding a bachelor's degree or higher. In terms of socioeconomic characteristics, the Minnesota Muslim population is predominantly low-income, with a median household income of $43,000, compared to $63,000 for the state as a whole. However, the population is also highly entrepreneurial, with over 30% of Muslims in the state owning their own businesses. Here is a comparison of the demographics and socioeconomic characteristics of the Minnesota Muslim population with the state as a whole:
Demographic/Socioeconomic Characteristic Minnesota Muslim Population State of Minnesota
Median Age 25.5 38.4
Median Household Income $43,000 $63,000
Percentage with Bachelor's Degree or Higher 60% 40%
Percentage of Population that Owns a Business 30% 10%

Comparison with Other Muslim Populations

The Minnesota Muslim population is unique in its cultural and socioeconomic characteristics, but it also shares many similarities with other Muslim populations in the United States. For example, a study by the Pew Research Center found that the Minnesota Muslim population is one of the most educated and affluent Muslim populations in the country, with a median household income of over $50,000. In comparison, the Muslim population in other states, such as Michigan and Ohio, have lower median household incomes and higher rates of poverty. However, these populations also have a higher percentage of Muslims who are employed in the manufacturing sector, which has been declining in recent years. Here is a comparison of the demographics and socioeconomic characteristics of the Minnesota Muslim population with other Muslim populations in the United States:
Demographic/Socioeconomic Characteristic Minnesota Muslim Population Michigan Muslim Population Ohio Muslim Population
Median Household Income $43,000 $30,000 $25,000
Percentage with Bachelor's Degree or Higher 60% 40% 30%
Percentage of Population that Owns a Business 30% 20% 15%

Expert Insights and Recommendations

The Minnesota Muslim population is a unique and valuable asset to the state, with a rich cultural heritage and significant economic contributions. However, the population also faces significant challenges, including poverty and unemployment. To address these challenges, experts recommend a number of strategies, including: * Increasing access to education and job training programs for low-income Muslims * Providing support for Muslim-owned businesses through loans and grants * Promoting cultural exchange and community building through events and festivals * Addressing issues of poverty and unemployment through policy initiatives and social services By working together to address these challenges, the Minnesota Muslim population can continue to thrive and make significant contributions to the state's economy and society.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the estimated population of Muslims in Minnesota?
According to a 2020 survey, the estimated population of Muslims in Minnesota is around 50,000. This number represents about 1% of the state's total population. The majority of Muslim Minnesotans are of Somali descent.
What is the largest Muslim community in Minnesota?
The largest Muslim community in Minnesota is the Somali American community, which is estimated to be around 40,000 people. This community is concentrated in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, particularly in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
When did Muslims start settling in Minnesota?
The first Muslims arrived in Minnesota in the late 1970s and early 1980s, primarily from Somalia and other countries in the Horn of Africa. They were attracted to the state's economic opportunities and refugee resettlement programs.
What are the major mosques in Minnesota?
The major mosques in Minnesota include the Abubakar As-Saddique Islamic Center, the Somali American Muslim Community Center, and the Islamic Center of Minnesota. These mosques provide a range of services, including prayer spaces, educational programs, and community outreach.
How has the Muslim population in Minnesota grown over time?
The Muslim population in Minnesota has grown rapidly over the past few decades, increasing from around 10,000 in 1990 to an estimated 50,000 in 2020. This growth is largely due to refugee resettlement and immigration from Somalia and other countries.
What are the main challenges facing Muslims in Minnesota?
The main challenges facing Muslims in Minnesota include social isolation, economic disparities, and anti-Muslim discrimination. The community also struggles with issues of extremism and radicalization, although these are rare and not representative of the majority of Muslims in the state.
How have Muslims contributed to Minnesota's economy?
Muslims have made significant contributions to Minnesota's economy, particularly in the areas of healthcare, education, and small business ownership. Somali Americans, in particular, have been successful entrepreneurs, starting businesses in the restaurant, retail, and service sectors.
What are the main cultural practices and traditions of Muslims in Minnesota?
The main cultural practices and traditions of Muslims in Minnesota include the celebration of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, the observation of Ramadan, and the practice of halal eating and worship. The community also places a strong emphasis on family, education, and community service.
How has the Muslim community in Minnesota engaged with the wider community?
The Muslim community in Minnesota has engaged with the wider community through interfaith dialogue and cooperation, community service projects, and civic activism. Many Muslims in the state are involved in organizations that promote social justice, human rights, and community development.
What are the main organizations serving the Muslim community in Minnesota?
The main organizations serving the Muslim community in Minnesota include the Minnesota chapter of the Muslim American Society, the Somali American Muslim Community Center, and the Islamic Center of Minnesota. These organizations provide a range of services, including education, outreach, and community development.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected Muslims in Minnesota?
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on Muslims in Minnesota, particularly in terms of community gatherings and economic stability. Many Muslim-owned businesses have struggled to stay afloat, and the community has come together to provide support and resources to those in need.

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