|
By Lisa Chen – Second-Generation Chinese American, Born and Raised in LA
If you’ve ever walked through the bustling streets of San Gabriel, heard Mandarin or Cantonese echo through a dim sum restaurant in Monterey Park, or stumbled upon a lantern festival in Alhambra, then you already know—Chinese culture is alive and thriving in Los Angeles. But how many Chinese people actually live here?
The Numbers: Chinese Population in Los Angeles
According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau and local demographic studies, over 500,000 Chinese people live in the Greater Los Angeles Area. That includes Los Angeles County and surrounding cities in the San Gabriel Valley, which has one of the largest concentrations of Chinese Americans in the entire country. In fact, LA ranks second only to New York City in terms of total Chinese population in the U.S. Some cities in LA County are majority Asian, with Chinese Americans forming a large part of that community. Here are just a few notable spots: Monterey Park: Sometimes referred to as the first “suburban Chinatown,” about 60% of the population here is of Asian descent, mostly Chinese. San Gabriel: A cultural hub for Chinese food, markets, and businesses. Alhambra, Arcadia, Rowland Heights, Temple City: All known for their strong Chinese presence, complete with authentic eateries, cultural festivals, and bilingual signage everywhere.
Why So Many Chinese People Choose Los Angeles
For many Chinese immigrants—especially those from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Mainland China—Los Angeles has long represented opportunity, safety, and a comfortable climate that resembles parts of southern China. Plus, LA already had an established Chinese-American population dating back to the 1800s, when Chinese workers helped build the railroads and settle the West. As a second-gen Chinese American, I remember my grandparents telling stories about arriving in LA in the 1970s and finding jobs, building small businesses, and eventually settling in Monterey Park. It was the sense of community and familiarity—the language, the food, the temples, and the schools—that made LA feel like home for them.
Everyday Life: What It’s Like Being Chinese in LA
If you’re curious about what daily life is like, imagine thi Going to 101 Noodle Express for beef rolls. Grocery shopping at 99 Ranch Market or H Mart (yes, we love Korean markets too). Sending your kids to Chinese school on weekends to learn Mandarin and brush calligraphy. Celebrating Lunar New Year with lion dances in local plazas, fireworks, red envelopes, and temple visits.
There’s also a strong focus on education and cultural preservation. Many Chinese American families in LA prioritize academics and community involvement, which is why you’ll find many Chinese-led nonprofit groups, language schools, cultural centers, and more.
Chinatown vs. the Suburbs: Where the Community Lives Now
While LA’s historic Chinatown near downtown still exists, most Chinese residents now live in suburban neighborhoods like: Arcadia Walnut Diamond Bar Hacienda Heights Rosemead
These places offer good schools, safer streets, and space to grow families—something many Chinese immigrants prioritize.
Final Thoughts
So, how many Chinese people live in Los Angeles? The short answer: more than half a million and growing. But the real answer goes deeper. It’s not just about the number—it’s about the vibrant, ever-evolving community that blends tradition with modern life. As someone who grew up here, I can say this: LA wouldn’t be LA without its Chinese heartbeat. From food to festivals, language to legacy, the Chinese presence here is woven into the very fabric of the city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or considering a move, you’ll find that Chinese culture in Los Angeles isn’t just visible—it’s proudly thriving.
[color=var(--YLNNHc)]Which city in California has the most Chinese?
[color=var(--bbQxAb)]The Los Angeles County city of Monterey Park has the highest percentage of Chinese-Americans of any municipality, at 43.7% of its population, or 24,758 people.
[color=var(--bbQxAb)]How many Chinese immigrants live in California?
⊲ Immigrants in California come from dozens of countries; the leading countries of origin are Mexico (3.8 million), the Philippines (821,136), China (795,450), India (574,498), and Vietnam (525,455). ⊲ Among immigrants who arrived between 2014 and 2023, 46% were born in Asia, while 38% were born in Latin America.
| 
美国
加拿大
新加坡
日本
迪拜
澳洲
泰国
越南
新西兰
马来
意大利
英国
德国
法国
西班牙
