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Demographic Profile

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The Asian American population, both nationally and locally, has seen rapid growth over the past few years. As the fastest-growing minority group in the country, they account for about 6% of the national population, which translates to about 21,333,453 individuals[1].

In Montgomery County, the Asian American population continues to grow. It is estimated that nearly 39% of the state of Maryland’s Asian American population lives in Montgomery County [2]. Accounting for nearly 16% of the County population [2],the Asian American population is made up of over 26 different racial subgroups[3].

In addition to being ethnically diverse, the Asian American population is also diverse in age. The median age of Asian Americans in Montgomery County is 43.4[1]. The Asian American senior population has also seen tremendous growth. In fact, Asian American older adults are the largest minority subgroup (32%) among Montgomery County’s 55+ age group[1].

For more information on demographics, watch this VIDEO and download the accompanying HANDOUT.

According to the 2024 American Community Survey (ACS) Estimates, Asian Americans Constitute 16% (170,325) of Montgomery County’s Population (1,082,273) [3].

[1] U.S. Census Bureau. “Selected Population Profile in the United States.” American Community Survey, ACS 1-Year Estimates Selected Population Profiles, Table S0201, https://data.census.gov/table/ACSSPP1Y2024.S0201?q=S0201&t=-01:001:400&g=010XX00US_040XX00US24_050XX00US24031. Accessed on 30 Sep 2025.

[2] U.S. Census Bureau. “Race.” American Community Survey, ACS 1-Year Supplemental Estimates, Table K200201, https://data.census.gov/table/ACSSE2024.K200201?q=K200201&g=040XX00US24$0500000. Accessed on 10 Feb 2026.

[3] U.S. Census Bureau. “Asian Alone by Selected Groups.” American Community Survey, ACS 5-Year Estimates Detailed Tables, Table B02015, https://data.census.gov/table/ACSDT5Y2024.B02015?q=B02015&g=050XX00US24031. Accessed on 10 Feb 2026.

                            Source: ACS 2024 5 YR Estimates, Table B02015

Model Minority Myth

Many Asian American communities in the United States have historically faced stigma stemming from the myth of the “model minority” which perceives Asian Americans as enjoying a much higher rate of socioeconomic success than other groups. Despite distinct patterns of migration into the United States, prevalent linguistic and cultural isolation, and varying levels of educational achievement and occupational success, the minority myth prevails. This can be especially unfair and even harmful for Asian American communities who struggle with visibility and attention for low-income or immigrant members who need support in accessing local health services.

The truth is, many Asian Americans—in Montgomery County and across the country—struggle to pay their monthly bills, live and work in unsafe environments, and cannot afford or do not know how to access adequate health care. By instituting this model minority myth, the needs of Asian Americans are often undermined and left unrecognized and unfulfilled.



Asian American Health Initiative, 1401 Rockville Pike, 3rd Floor, Rockville, MD 20852

Phone:  240-777-4517 Fax: 240-777-4564 Email: AAHI@montgomerycountymd.gov

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