Does CT have the highest percentage of Italians in the U.S.?

Connecticut has the highest percentage of residents with Italian ancestry in the United States, with about 15% of its population, or roughly 562,000 people, identifying as Italian American, according to 2023 data from World Population Review. Rhode Island follows closely with 14.6%, and New Jersey ranks third at 13%.

New York had the highest total population of Italian Americans at 2.2 million, which make up 11% of the state’s population. Connecticut ranks 10th in total population.

Italian immigration to Connecticut surged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as thousands arrived from southern Italy and Sicily seeking industrial jobs. They settled in cities like New Haven, Waterbury, Bridgeport, Hartford and New Britain, working in factories, on railroads and in construction. Over generations, Italian Americans helped shape the state’s economy, neighborhoods and culture.

Each October, the state celebrates that lasting legacy during Italian American Heritage and Culture Month.