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London is an incredibly diverse metropolis, representing a tapestry of ethnicities that contribute to its rich cultural fabric. The city has a long history of immigration, and its population encompasses a wide array of ethnic backgrounds, making it one of the most multicultural cities globally. Among the prominent ethnic groups in London are people of South Asian, Black African and Caribbean, East Asian, and Middle Eastern descent, to name a few. This diversity is evident in various neighborhoods and boroughs, each reflecting unique cultural influences and traditions.
The map below created by London school of hygiene & tropical medicine shows prominent ethnic groups in London.
As of the 2011 census, 36.7% of London’s population was born outside the United Kingdom, including 24.5% born outside of Europe. In 2014, the city recorded 3,082,000 residents who were born abroad. Notably, London holds the highest number, though not percentage, of foreign-born residents among all cities in the United Kingdom.
According to the Wikipedia the White British population, once the predominant majority, has seen a significant decline, comprising 36.8% of the population as of the latest census. This marks a substantial decrease from around 90% in 1971, 60% in 2001, and 45% in 2011. According to the 2021 census, 40.6% of the population was born outside the United Kingdom.
The white majority of London’s population is relatively even distributed. Among the boroughs, Bromley has the highest population of White British, as well as the highest total White population, while Newham has the lowest for both categories.
As of the 2011 census, London’s overall Asian population reached 1,511,546, indicating a 60% increase from the 2001 census, during which the population stood at 947,425.
London’s Asian population exhibits distinct concentrations in both East and West London. Harrow stands out with the highest Indian population, Redbridge leads in Pakistani population, Tower Hamlets has the highest Bangladeshi population, and Barnet boasts the highest Chinese population. Additionally, Newham holds the record for the highest total Asian population in London
As of the 2011 census, London’s total Black population reached 1,101,688, reflecting a 39% increase from the 2001 census when the population stood at 781,751.
The concentration of the Black population in London is notably prominent in South London, where the four boroughs with the highest overall Black populations are all situated south of the river. Greenwich also ranks within the top 10. Southwark leads with the highest Black African population, Croydon has the highest Black Caribbean population, and Lambeth boasts the highest total Black population in London. Notably, in Southwark, Greenwich, and Newham, the Black African population significantly surpasses the Black Caribbean population. Conversely, Lewisham and Brent exhibit a more balanced distribution, while Croydon stands out as the sole borough where the Black Caribbean population exceeds the Black African one.
