The Growth of Islam in U.S. - A look at Population Trends and Conversions

A Historical and Contemporary Perspective

Islam, one of the world’s major religions, has experienced significant growth since its inception in the 7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula. From its early beginnings with the Prophet Muhammad in Mecca and Medina, it has become the world's second-largest religion. Today, Islam influences the lives of over two billion followers globally.

Thus, we have made of you an Ummah [Muslim community] justly balanced, so that ye might be witnesses over yourselves? (Qur’ an, Surah 2:143; Yusuf Ali trans)

From its inception, Islam has been committed to being a witness to the world. And that commitment has yielded phenomenal results. Today Islam is the second largest religion on the planet. With 1.2 billion followers, it comprises one-fifth of the world’s population. With a 2.1 percent per annum increase (68,000 new adherents every 24 hours), Islam is slightly behind Baha’i as the world’s fastest-growing religion. 

Islam’s growth is partially attributed to high fertility rates in Muslim-majority countries. According to a 2017 Pew Research Center report, Islam is projected to be the fastest-growing major religion, potentially overtaking Christianity by the end of the 21st century.

Islam's Role in Political Discourse

Muslims have become the fastest-growing religious group globally. Their increasing population, combined with regional migration and the actions of extremist groups like ISIS (also known as ISIL), which commit violent acts in the name of Islam, have placed the Muslim community and its faith at the center of political discussions in various countries.

Despite this, many people, especially in the United States where the Muslim population is relatively small, remain unfamiliar with facts about Muslims and their beliefs.

Growth of the Muslim Population in Texas

Texas has experienced a significant rise in its Muslim population. Estimates show an increase from approximately 140,000 in 1990 to between 350,000 and 400,000 by 2012. By 2020, the Association of Religion Data Archives reported a Muslim population of 313,209 in Texas. This growth can be attributed to immigration, higher birth rates, and a rising number of conversions.

Notably, Latino communities in Texas have shown increased interest in Islam. A 2020 survey revealed that 9% of U.S. Muslims are Latino converts, compared to 5% in 2017.

Conversions to Islam

Conversions also contribute to Islam’s growth, particularly in Western countries. Many converts cite the religion’s simplicity, emphasis on community, and focus on spiritual discipline as reasons for embracing Islam. 

According to Pew Research, the number of U.S. converts to Islam is roughly equal to the number of U.S. Muslims who leave the religion, unlike other religions, in which the number of those leaving is greater than the number of converts. 77% of new converts to Islam are from Christianity, whereas 19% were from non-religion.

Factors Behind Muslim Growth in the U.S.

Converting to Islam is relatively straightforward, requiring a declaration of faith that acknowledges Allah as the one true God and Muhammad as His messenger. The American Muslim population has expanded significantly due to three main factors: a surge in immigration over the past 40 years, a high birth rate, and an average of nearly 20,000 conversions annually. However, a study revealed that more than 58% of new converts do not continue attending the mosque, leading to an actual annual number of lasting conversions of around 81,000 according to Israel My Glory.

Projections for Future Growth

Islam's rapid expansion is reshaping social landscapes, influencing community dynamics, and redefining interfaith dialogues across the globe. In the U.S., the growing Muslim population is increasingly impacting politics, culture, and public perception.

Projections indicate that the Muslim population in the U.S. will grow much faster than the Jewish population. By 2040, Muslims are expected to become the second-largest religious group in the country, after Christians. By 2050, the Muslim population is projected to reach 8.1 million, making up 2.1% of the total U.S. population, nearly double its current share according to Pew Research.

The Dynamics of Religious Conversion

While religious conversions have contributed to the growth of the Muslim population, they have not had a large impact compared to other factors. The number of Americans converting to Islam is offset by those who leave the faith. Approximately one in five American Muslim adults were raised in a different faith tradition, but a similar proportion of individuals raised Muslim no longer identify with Islam.

The growth of Islam is a testament to its adaptability and appeal across cultures and geographies. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, understanding the historical and contemporary dynamics of Islam is crucial. Its emphasis on unity, justice, and spirituality continues to resonate with millions, making it a significant force in shaping the global future.