How Minnesota became a hub for Somali immigrants in the U.S.

Thursday, December 4, 2025 -Minnesota today is home to one of the largest Somali communities in the United States, concentrated primarily in Minneapolis and St. Paul. 

The state has become a center for Somali entrepreneurship, culture, and political engagement, with local businesses, mosques, and community organizations creating a supportive network for newcomers. The region’s affordable housing, established social services, and active immigrant advocacy groups continue to attract Somali families seeking stability and opportunity.

The Somali community in Minnesota has also become increasingly visible in public life. Somali Americans hold elected office at the city and state levels, run media outlets, and operate nonprofits addressing education, healthcare, and economic development. 

Their growing presence has strengthened cross-cultural collaboration, creating platforms for Somali youth, artists, and professionals to contribute to the broader community while preserving their cultural identity.

Today, Minnesota’s Somali hub is more than a residential enclave — it’s a driver of economic and civic activity. Employers in the Twin Cities benefit from Somali-owned businesses and skilled labor, while policymakers and nonprofits leverage the community’s insights to improve services for immigrants statewide. 

As Minnesota continues to attract new arrivals, the state remains a model for how immigrant communities can integrate, thrive, and shape the future of local and national culture.