Number of Indians in United States

Traditionally, when someone is asked to think of the largest immigrant group in the U.S., Mexicans or Chinese always come to mind. But recent changes in immigration patterns have already led to significant demographic changes in America. These changes have not gained wide media coverage just yet.

Updated census data suggests that the fast growing immigrant group are Asians. The number of immigrants from Asia are growing faster than even Latinos. But one particular group replay stands out in Asia: Indian Americans.

Indian Americans are the largest Asian immigrant as well as the 2nd largest immigrant group in the world who are residing in the US. In fact, they would be the largest immigrant group if not for the Mexicans.

Since 2013, more than 2 million immigrants born in India have gained permission to reside in America. There are around 4.7 million Indian-born immigrants in total whereas the total foreign-born population comes to around 41.3 million. So around 10% of all foreign-born immigrants are Indians.

Such a sudden increase Indian-born immigrants is largely due to the importing of technology employees. For example, in 2014 70% of all H-1B visa recipients originated from India.

Not only do Indian Americans make up the numbers, but they are also able to live a very wealthy life. They are the wealthiest immigrant group of all! Indian Americans earn a median household income of around $101,591. This is more than any other immigrant group.

Considering the recent rise of Indian Americans like Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft), Sundar Pichai (CEO of Google) and Indra Nooyi (CEO of Pepsi) as examples, it is probably not a surprise.