The Great Chicago Hispanic Headcount: It's More Than Just Counting Beans (But Maybe Also Some Delicious Refried Beans)
Ever wondered how much salsa you'd need to bathe the entire city of Chicago in? Hold on to your sombreros, because that's not quite what we're measuring here. But we are diving into the fascinating world of demographics, specifically the vibrant Hispanic community that calls Chicago home.
So, How Many Señoras and Señores Are We Talking About?
According to the 2020 census, around 29.8% of Chicago's population identifies as Hispanic. That translates to roughly 788,000 people. Now, that's a whole lot of gente! Enough to fill Wrigley Field...multiple times...and still have a fiesta left over.
But wait, there's more! The Hispanic community isn't just a big number, it's a beautiful tapestry woven from folks with roots all across Latin America. Mexicans make up the largest chunk, at around 73%. But don't forget the Puerto Rican bakers serving up heavenly pasteles, the Colombian artists bringing color to the streets, and all the other amazing nationalities spicing up the city.
Fun Fact Fiesta!
Did you know that Chicago has the third-largest Mexican population of any county in the US, outside of the Southwest? That's right, there's more Tex-Mex north of the border than you might think!
Why Should We Care?
Because a city's heart beats with its people, and Chicago's Hispanic community brings a whole lot of rhythm! From influencing the food scene (because let's be honest, what's life without tacos?) to enriching the cultural landscape (art, music, dance - they've got it all!), these folks are a vital part of what makes Chicago so special.
So next time you grab a burrito or hear a salsa beat, remember the amazing Hispanic community that's woven into the fabric of this great city. Olé!
