List of Countries with the Largest Jewish Populations
The Jewish population is spread across the globe, with significant communities in various countries. This article explores the nations with the largest Jewish populations, based on the most reliable and recent estimates. These figures reflect both self-identified Jews and those with Jewish ancestry, though exact numbers can vary due to differing methodologies and migration patterns. Below is an overview of the top countries, their Jewish populations, and key factors contributing to their prominence.
1. Israel
Estimated Jewish Population: ~7.2 million
Israel hosts the largest Jewish population in the world, comprising roughly 45% of the global Jewish population. As the only Jewish-majority country, approximately 73% of its citizens identify as Jewish. The establishment of Israel in 1948 as a homeland for Jews led to significant immigration waves, particularly from Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Ongoing immigration, known as aliyah, continues to bolster this population, with recent inflows from countries like Ukraine and France due to geopolitical tensions and antisemitism.
2. United States
Estimated Jewish Population: ~5.8 million
The United States is home to the second-largest Jewish community, concentrated in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. American Jews represent a diverse group, including Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and Mizrahi backgrounds, with varying levels of religious observance. The U.S. has been a hub for Jewish immigration since the 19th century, particularly during periods of persecution in Europe. Organizations like the Pew Research Center note that about 2.4% of the U.S. population identifies as Jewish, either by religion or cultural affiliation.
3. France
Estimated Jewish Population: ~450,000
France has the largest Jewish population in Europe, primarily in Paris and its suburbs. The community is diverse, with significant Sephardi populations from former French colonies in North Africa, alongside Ashkenazi Jews. However, rising antisemitism in recent decades has prompted some French Jews to emigrate, particularly to Israel. Despite this, France remains a major center for Jewish culture and religious life in Europe.
4. Canada
Estimated Jewish Population: ~400,000
Canada’s Jewish community, largely concentrated in Toronto and Montreal, is the fourth largest globally. Most Canadian Jews are of Ashkenazi descent, with roots in Eastern Europe. The community is known for its strong cultural and educational institutions, including Jewish day schools and synagogues. Canada’s relatively welcoming immigration policies and multicultural environment have supported the growth of this population.
5. United Kingdom
Estimated Jewish Population: ~290,000
The UK’s Jewish community, primarily in London and Manchester, is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the 17th century. Predominantly Ashkenazi, the community has a rich history of contributions to British society in fields like finance, politics, and culture. Recent concerns about antisemitism have sparked debates about emigration, but the UK remains a vibrant hub for Jewish life.
Other Notable Countries
- Russia: ~150,000–200,000. Once home to millions of Jews, Russia’s population declined due to emigration after the Soviet Union’s collapse. Many moved to Israel or the U.S., but a resilient community remains in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
- Argentina: ~180,000. The largest Jewish community in Latin America, centered in Buenos Aires, with a mix of Ashkenazi and Sephardi heritage.
- Germany: ~120,000. Rebuilt after the Holocaust, Germany’s Jewish population has grown due to immigration from former Soviet states.
- Australia: ~115,000. Concentrated in Sydney and Melbourne, this community is active in cultural and religious spheres.
- Brazil: ~90,000. Primarily in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s Jewish population is diverse and integrated into the country’s multicultural fabric.
Factors Influencing Jewish Population Distribution
Several factors shape where Jewish populations are concentrated:
- Historical Migration: Persecution, such as the Holocaust and pogroms, drove Jews to safer regions like the U.S. and Israel.
- Economic Opportunities: Countries with strong economies, like Canada and Australia, attract Jewish communities seeking stability.
- Cultural and Religious Freedom: Nations with policies supporting religious diversity tend to have thriving Jewish populations.
- Antisemitism: Rising antisemitism in some countries, like France and the UK, has led to emigration, often to Israel.
The global Jewish population, estimated at around 15.2 million, is heavily concentrated in Israel and the United States, which together account for over 80% of the total. Other countries like France, Canada, and the UK also host significant communities, each with unique historical and cultural contributions. While challenges like antisemitism and assimilation persist, these populations continue to thrive, maintaining their religious and cultural identities in diverse global contexts.
Note: Population estimates are drawn from sources like the Jewish Agency, Pew Research Center, and World Jewish Congress, with figures accurate as of the latest available data in 2025.
