Ya Mon, How Many Jamaicans Live in NYC? A Totally Unofficial Investigation
Ever wondered how many Jamaicans are living it up in the Big Apple? Because let's face it, New York City could use a little more island time energy, right? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the not-so-scientific world of Jamaican demographics in NYC.
First things first: We gotta respect the privacy of islanders! There's no central Jamaican census office in Brooklyn (shocker, I know). But fear not, we've got some clues.
Exhibit A: The Jerk Don't Lie
Take a walk down any NYC street and follow your nose. The glorious aroma of jerk chicken? That's a pretty good sign you're nearing Jamaican territory. Now, this isn't exactly a headcount, but let's be honest, the more jerk shacks, the more likely there's a thriving Jamaican community.
Exhibit B: Reggae Rules the Subway
Ever get stuck on a crowded train blessed by the sounds of Bob Marley? That's a sure sign there's a Jamaican around. Now, this method might be a little less reliable (hello tourists!), but it definitely adds to the New York City experience.
The Official-ish Numbers (with a sprinkle of skepticism):
Alright, alright, so you want some real numbers? The 2020 census says there are around 284,000 Jamaican Americans living in New York state. Now, how many of those are chilling in NYC? Well, that my friend, is a mystery. But hey, 284,000 is a pretty good starting point, right?
The Verdict: Enough Jamaicans to Make NYC Lit
Look, we may not have the exact number, but here's what we do know: There are enough Jamaicans in NYC to bring the good vibes, the infectious rhythms, and of course, the jerk chicken. So next time you hear reggae blasting down the street, take a moment to appreciate the Jamaican influence that makes New York City such a vibrant place.
P.S. If you have a more accurate way to count Jamaicans (besides following the jerk scent), hit a man up in the comments!
