How Big Is the Indonesian American Community?

Over the past few decades, the Indonesian American population has seen significant growth, reflecting broader patterns of Asian immigration to the United States. According to the Pew Research Center, the number of Indonesians in the U.S. more than doubled between 2000 and 2019, increasing from approximately 63,000 to 129,000. This expanding community, while still relatively small compared to other Asian groups, represents a vibrant and diverse piece of the American demographic puzzle.

Indonesian Americans tend to be younger than the overall Asian population in the U.S., with a median age of 34 years. About 59% of them are foreign-born, and of those, 58% have become U.S. citizens. Family life plays a central role in the community, with 71% of households consisting of married couples and 26% living in multigenerational homes—higher than the average among all Asians. These tight-knit family structures speak to the strong communal and intergenerational values within Indonesian culture.

When it comes to education, Indonesian Americans hold their own. Roughly 33% of those over 25 have earned a bachelor’s degree, while 20% have gone on to obtain a postgraduate degree. These numbers closely align with educational attainment across the broader Asian American population. Economically, the community fares well, with a 2019 median household income of $80,000—higher than the national averages for both immigrant and U.S.-born households.

Linguistic and religious diversity further defines this group. While many speak English fluently, a variety of languages such as Indonesian, Javanese, Sundanese, and Chinese are also common within the community. Religiously, Indonesian Americans are remarkably varied: 68% identify as Christians, 25% as Muslims, 5% as Buddhists, and 2% as Hindus. This range reflects the pluralistic religious landscape of Indonesia itself.

As the Indonesian American population continues to grow, so does its influence and presence in U.S. society. From cultural festivals and cuisine to academic and economic contributions, Indonesians in the U.S. bring with them rich traditions and a deep sense of resilience. Whether recent immigrants or second-generation citizens, they are carving out a space that blends heritage with opportunity, shaping a unique and evolving American story.

Sources:

• Pew Research Center – Indonesians in the U.S. Fact Sheet https://www.pewresearch.org/race-and-ethnicity/fact-sheet/asian-americans-indonesians-in-the-u-s

• Wikipedia – Indonesian Americans https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesian_Americans