Latin America
Philadelphia’s connection to the Americas spans centuries. More than 200 years ago, brisk trade flourished between Philadelphia, Cuba, and the Anglophone Caribbean. As early as 1923, a survey identified a “Spanish Colony” in Philadelphia, consisting of Spanish-speaking immigrants from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Spain. The connection between Philadelphia and its southern neighbors has grown throughout the last century due largely to U.S. political involvements, trade and labor relations, and changing immigration laws.
Businesses & Organizations
Brazil
Population
Over 20,000 (Source: Immigration Law)
Region/ Neighborhood
Brazilians in Philadelphia tend to live in the Northeast, with concentrations around Castor Avenue between Roosevelt Boulevard and Cottman Avenue. Groupings of Brazilian restaurants, clothing shops, variety stores, and concentrations of Brazilian residents can be found along Cottman, Castor, and Bustleton Avenues.
Communities/ Organizations
Mexico
Population
7,800 (Source: Pew)
Region/ Neighborhood
The most visible and largest concentration is in South Philadelphia between Washington and Oregon Avenues and Front and 18th Streets. There are also smaller enclaves throughout Philadelphia.
The Mexican population is experiencing rapid growth in Philadelphia. In 2003, community leaders estimated the population to have surpassed 12,000, making it the second-largest Latino group in Philadelphia after Puerto Ricans.
Communities/ Organizations
By the Numbers...
Twenty-four percent of Philadelphia’s foreign-born come from the Pan-American region.
Many come from the Caribbean, with significant populations also coming from South America.
A growing number of Philadelphia’s newcomers come from Mexico and Central America.
Columbia
Population
Over 20,000 (Source: Immigration Law)
Region/ Neighborhood
The largest Colombian enclaves are in and around Olney, Feltonville, Juniata Park, Summerdale, Lawncrest, and Oxford Circle. There are also Colombian households dispersed throughout the city and surrounding suburbs.
Communities/ Organizations
Columbians of Metro Philadelphia
Colombian and Latin American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania
Cuba
Population
3,930 people (Source: Visit Philly)
Region/ Neighborhood
Cubans tend to reside in North and North East Philadelphia. Many Cubans have settled near Olney but have since dispersed to surrounding areas. (Source: The Historical Society of Pennsylvania)
Organizations/ Communities
Latin American Communities
El Centro de Oro (“The Golden Block”)
El Centro de Oro is a hub for Latinx culture and life. Located in the Fairhill neighborhood, El Centro de Oro is home to many Latin American residences. The neighborhood is thriving with Latin American Restaurants such as Rico Mexican Tacos and Delicias Bakery & Delicatessen. On Lehigh Avenue lies Centro Musical, a Latino-owned music store full of Latin American CDs and other musical items.
South Philadelphia - Italian Market
Despite its name, The Italian market is full of Latinx residents and culture. South Philly Barbacoa is a great spot to