The story of America cannot be told without its Black communities, whose presence and contributions have shaped the nation’s culture, politics, and economy for centuries. Today, the distribution of Black populations across U.S. states reflects both historical legacies—such as the Great Migration and the deep roots of African American life in the South—and modern demographic shifts. By examining where Black populations are most concentrated, both in raw numbers and percentages, we gain insight into the evolving landscape of Black America.

Top 30 US States With Highest Black Populations

1. Texas

Texas has the largest Black population in the nation, with over 4.1 million residents. Concentrated in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, Black communities contribute significantly to the state’s culture, politics, and economy. Historically shaped by both slavery and migration, Texas now hosts thriving neighborhoods, influential churches, and cultural hubs. The state’s size and economic opportunities continue to attract African Americans, making Texas a dynamic center of Black life in the United States.

2. Georgia

Georgia is home to about 3.6 million Black residents, representing nearly one‑third of its population. Atlanta, often called the “Black Mecca,” is a hub of culture, business, and education, with institutions like Morehouse and Spelman Colleges. Georgia’s Black communities have deep historical roots, from the Civil Rights Movement to contemporary political influence. The state’s blend of tradition and modern growth makes it one of the most important centers of African American life today.

3. Florida

Florida’s Black population exceeds 3.9 million, spread across diverse regions from Miami to Jacksonville. The state’s Caribbean and African diasporas enrich its cultural landscape, adding unique traditions to African American heritage. Historically, Florida played a role in both slavery and the Great Migration. Today, Black Floridians are central to the state’s politics, arts, and tourism industries. With vibrant communities and growing influence, Florida’s Black population reflects both deep roots and global connections.

4. New York

New York has about 3.5 million Black residents, concentrated in New York City, Buffalo, and Rochester. Harlem remains a historic cultural epicenter, while Brooklyn and Queens host diverse communities with Caribbean and African influences. The state’s Black population grew significantly during the Great Migration, shaping politics, arts, and activism. Today, New York’s Black communities are leaders in culture, business, and civic life, making the state a cornerstone of African American influence nationwide.

5. California

California’s Black population, around 2.5 million, is concentrated in Los Angeles, Oakland, and Sacramento. The state’s communities reflect both migration from the South and international diasporas. California’s Black residents have shaped music, film, and activism, from the Black Panther Party in Oakland to Hollywood’s cultural influence. Despite challenges like gentrification and economic inequality, Black Californians remain central to the state’s identity, contributing to its diversity, innovation, and cultural leadership on the national stage.

6. North Carolina

North Carolina has about 2.4 million Black residents, making up over 21% of its population. Historically, the state was a center of slavery and later the Civil Rights Movement. Today, cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham host thriving communities, while historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) anchor education and culture. North Carolina’s Black population continues to shape politics, arts, and business, blending deep historical roots with modern growth and influence across the Southeast.

7. Maryland

Maryland’s Black population is approximately 2 million, representing nearly one‑third of the state’s residents. Baltimore is a cultural hub, while Prince George’s County is one of the wealthiest majority‑Black counties in the nation. Maryland’s history includes slavery, abolition, and civil rights activism. Today, Black communities drive politics, education, and culture, with strong representation in government and business. Maryland’s blend of history and prosperity makes it a vital center of African American life.

8. Illinois

Illinois has nearly 2 million Black residents, most concentrated in Chicago. The city’s South Side is historically significant, shaped by the Great Migration and cultural movements like jazz, blues, and hip‑hop. Black communities in Illinois have influenced politics, producing leaders such as Barack Obama. Despite challenges like segregation and economic inequality, Illinois’s Black population remains vibrant, contributing to arts, business, and civic life. The state continues to be a major hub of African American culture.

9. Virginia

Virginia’s Black population is about 1.8 million, making up over 20% of the state’s residents. Historically, Virginia was central to slavery and emancipation, with sites like Jamestown and Richmond tied to African American history. Today, cities like Richmond, Norfolk, and Northern Virginia host thriving communities. Virginia’s Black population is influential in politics, education, and culture, blending historical significance with modern growth. The state remains a key center of African American heritage and progress.

10. Ohio

Ohio has around 1.7 million Black residents, concentrated in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. The state’s Black population grew during the Great Migration, shaping industry, politics, and culture. Ohio’s communities have contributed to music, sports, and civil rights activism. Despite economic challenges in some urban areas, Black Ohioans remain central to the state’s identity and progress. With strong cultural traditions and political influence, Ohio’s Black population continues to play a vital role in the Midwest.

Top 30 States by Black Population (Fresh Estimates)

Rank	State	Black Population (approx.)	% of State Population
1	Texas	4,146,550	13.0%
2	Georgia	3,648,020	32.3%
3	Florida	3,900,650	16.4%
4	New York	3,519,050	17.6%
5	California	2,528,093	6.0%
6	North Carolina	2,422,740	21.6%
7	Maryland	2,001,090	31.7%
8	Illinois	1,961,890	15.4%
9	Virginia	1,845,480	20.8%
10	Ohio	1,731,170	14.5%
11	Pennsylvania	1,687,000	12.8%
12	Louisiana	1,530,500	33.2%
13	Michigan	1,547,900	15.2%
14	Alabama	1,391,120	26.8%
15	South Carolina	1,420,210	25.5%
16	New Jersey	1,424,160	14.8%
17	Tennessee	1,230,420	16.8%
18	Mississippi	1,132,820	38.5%
19	Missouri	725,454	12.0%
20	Indiana	715,156	10.0%
21	Massachusetts	675,303	10.0%
22	Arkansas	497,668	16.0%
23	Connecticut	490,117	13.2%
24	Minnesota	450,487	8.0%
25	Kentucky	396,045	9.0%
26	Wisconsin	392,333	7.0%
27	Arizona	422,598	6.0%
28	Washington	364,647	5.0%
29	Nevada	351,346	11.0%
30	Oklahoma	321,300	8.0%

Closing

From the bustling urban centers of New York and Chicago to the cultural heartlands of Georgia, Mississippi, and Louisiana, Black communities remain central to the American experience. States with the largest populations highlight economic power and cultural influence, while those with the highest percentages underscore deep historical roots. Together, they form a mosaic of resilience, creativity, and identity. Understanding these demographics is more than statistics—it is a window into the living story of African American life in the United States.