Moving to the United States is a big step for any family. For Pakistani Muslims, the choice of city or state is very important. People want to live where they can practice their faith easily and when Pakistani Muslims move to the United States, they are not just searching for houses and jobs. They are searching for a place, where their children can hear the call to prayer, where mothers can shop for halal meat with peace of mind and where fathers can attend Friday prayer with their community.
They want schools where their children can learn both modern education and Islamic values. They want neighbours who understand Eid celebrations and friends who share the same love for biryani after Namaz-e-Taraweeh in Ramadan.
As of 2025, the Pakistani American community in the United States is estimated to be between 680,000 and 740,000 people, depending on how it is defined. Pew Research data from the American Community Survey places the figure at about 580,000 individuals who identify as Pakistani alone, while the broader estimate, which includes those who identify as Pakistani in combination with other ethnicities, rises to around 680,000. More recent projections that also account for students, skilled workers and temporary visa holders suggest the community has now grown beyond 795,000. This makes Pakistanis, one of the fastest-growing South Asian groups in America, with strong concentrations in metropolitan areas.
In this article, we will look at best possible cities for Pakistani Muslims to live in the USA and also compare their living cost with Muslim facilities like number of mosques halal stores etc:
1. Houston Texas:
Houston is one of the most Muslim-friendly cities in the United States. The city is home to dozens of mosques, including the Islamic Society of Greater Houston (ISGH), which is one of the largest Muslim organizations in the entire country. For Pakistani Muslims, this means Friday prayers, community programs and Islamic classes are easily available.
Food is also never a problem in Houston. The city has halal grocery stores, desi restaurants and Pakistani bakeries in almost every neighborhood. From halal meat shops in Hillcroft (also called Little Pakistan) to popular eateries like BBQ Tonight and Bundu Khan, Pakistani families feel at home. Cultural festivals, community events and religious celebrations such as "Eid-ul-Fitr or Eid-ul-Azha" are organized on a large scale every year, making it easy for new immigrants to connect with their culture.
But what makes Houston even more attractive is its educational opportunities. The city is home to some of the top universities in the USA, which attract students from all over the world, including many from Pakistan.
Rice University – Ranked among the best private universities in the United States, Rice is well known for its strong programs in engineering, natural sciences and business. Pakistani students often choose Rice for higher education because of its academic reputation.
University of Houston (UH) – A large public university that has thousands of international students, including a strong Pakistani and South Asian student community. UH is famous for programs in engineering, computer science and business.
Texas Southern University – Known for research and professional programs, this university also attracts international students.
Baylor College of Medicine – One of the leading medical schools in the USA, ideal for Pakistani students who want to pursue advanced medical studies.
For Pakistani families, having such universities nearby means children can study in world-class institutions while staying connected to a supportive Muslim and Pakistani community.
2. Chicago Illinois:
Chicago is one of the largest and most diverse cities in the United States and it has a very strong Muslim and Pakistani community. The city is home to many mosques, with Devon Avenue being the heart of the Pakistani community. On this street, you can find halal restaurants, grocery stores, clothing shops and Islamic bookstores. For Pakistani Muslims, Chicago feels like a second home because of the rich cultural presence and frequent community events.
The city has several Islamic centers and mosques, including the Muslim Community Center (MCC) and the Islamic Foundation North, where Friday prayers, Islamic education classes, and cultural programs are organized regularly. During Ramadan, Chicago becomes very lively, with taraweeh prayers, community iftars and Eid festivals that bring thousands of people together.
Food is another reason due to which Pakistani families love Chicago. The city has some of the best Pakistani restaurants including famous spots like Sabri Nihari, Usmania and Tahoora Sweets. Halal grocery stores are easy to find, making it convenient for families to cook traditional Pakistani food at home.
But beyond culture and food, Chicago is also known for its world-class education. For Pakistani parents, having good universities nearby is often a top priority. Luckily, Chicago has some of the best universities in America, which attract students from Pakistan every year.
University of Chicago – Ranked among the top universities in the world, especially strong in economics, law, political science and medicine. Many Pakistani students and researchers study here.
Northwestern University (near Chicago in Evanston) – A prestigious private university with strong programs in journalism, engineering, business and medicine.
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) – A public university with a large international student population, including many Pakistanis. It is known for research, health sciences and business programs.
Loyola University Chicago – A respected private university offering a variety of programs in medicine, business and law.
Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) – Famous for engineering and technological studies, often chosen by Pakistani students pursuing careers in science and technology.
3. New York City:
New York City is often called the gateway for immigrants and it has one of the largest Muslim populations in the United States. For Pakistani Muslims, it is a welcoming city with endless opportunities, a strong community presence and access to both cultural and religious institutions.
One of the biggest advantages of living in New York is the wide number of mosques and Islamic centers. The Islamic Cultural Center of New York is one of the most famous mosques in the city and there are many others spread across different zones including Queens, Brooklyn and the Bronx. Friday prayers, Islamic schools, Quran classes and community lectures are easily available, helping families stay connected to their faith.
The Pakistani community in New York is especially strong in Jackson Heights (Queens) and Brooklyn, where families can find halal meat shops, grocery stores, clothing boutiques and restaurants serving authentic Pakistani food. Popular halal eateries include Kebab King, Bundu Khan, and Kababish, which are favorites for both locals and visitors. During Ramadan and Eid, these neighborhoods become very lively, with night bazaars, street decorations and large community prayers.
Culturally, New York hosts many Pakistani festivals, such as the annual Pakistan Day Parade, which brings together thousands of people waving green and white flags, celebrating heritage and unity. For newly settled families, these events make the city feel like home.
But perhaps the biggest reason families choose New York is its world-class universities. Education is highly valued in the Pakistani community, and New York offers some of the best institutions in the world:
Columbia University – An Ivy League university ranked among the top globally, famous for business, law, medicine and social sciences. Many Pakistani students dream of studying here.
New York University (NYU) – Located in Manhattan, NYU is internationally known for programs in business, technology, arts and law.
City University of New York (CUNY) – One of the largest public university in the USA, with many Pakistani and Muslim students because of affordable tuition and strong programs.
Fordham University – A respected private institution offering programs in business, law and humanities.
St. John’s University – A diverse university that has programs in business, pharmacy and sciences, attracting many South Asian students.
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4. Dallas Texas:
Dallas is one of the most welcoming cities in Texas for Pakistani Muslims, offering a balance of faith, culture and education. The city has a strong Muslim presence with major mosques such as the Islamic Association of North Texas and the East Plano Islamic Center, where families can attend daily prayers, Quran classes and cultural gatherings. This makes it easy for Pakistani Muslims to stay connected with their traditions while living in the United States.
The Pakistani community in Dallas is also very active, with halal grocery stores, clothing shops and restaurants spread across the city. Popular places like Al Markaz, BBQ Tonite and Kabobi serve authentic Pakistani food and act as meeting points for families and friends. This availability of halal food and cultural spaces creates a sense of belonging and makes daily life more comfortable for immigrant families.
Education is another major reason why Dallas has become attractive for Pakistani families. The University of Texas at Dallas is one of the top choices for students, especially those interested in engineering, computer science and business. Southern Methodist University and the University of North Texas also provide strong programs and have a diverse student population that includes many international students.
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5. Los Angeles California:
Los Angeles is one of the most popular cities in the United States for Pakistani Muslims because it offers both cultural comfort and strong opportunities for education and work. The city has a large Muslim population with many mosques spread across different neighborhoods. Well-known centers such as The Islamic Center of Southern California provide not only a place for prayers but also Islamic education and community events, which help families stay connected to their faith. Smaller mosques and prayer spaces can be found throughout the city, making it easy for Muslims to practice their religion without difficulty.
The Pakistani community in Los Angeles is well established, especially in areas like Artesia, Anaheim and Orange County, where families can find halal grocery stores, clothing shops and Pakistani restaurants. Popular eateries such as Shahnawaz, Al-Watan, and Zam Zam Market are famous among locals for serving traditional dishes that remind families of home. Pakistani cultural festivals and Independence Day events are celebrated every year, giving the community a chance to come together and strengthen cultural ties.
Education in Los Angeles is another strong attraction for Pakistani families. The city is home to some of the best universities in the country. The University of California is world famous for programs in science, business and engineering and it attracts many international students, including those from Pakistan. The University of Southern California (USC) is another top private university known for technology, business and medical studies.
6. Detroit and Dearborn Michigan:
Detroit, Michigan is another city where Pakistani Muslims have built a strong and welcoming community. The city and its suburbs, especially Dearborn, are home to one of the largest Muslim populations in the United States. This makes it very easy for Pakistani families to find mosques, halal food and cultural support. Dearborn in particular is filled with Islamic centers, grocery stores and restaurants that serve authentic Pakistani and Middle Eastern food. Families living here feel a strong sense of belonging because they are surrounded by people who share similar traditions and religious practices.
The presence of many mosques is one of the main advantages of Detroit for Muslim families. Well-known centers such as the Islamic Center of America and Masjid Dearborn offer not only daily prayers but also Quran classes, youth programs and large gatherings during Ramadan and Eid. Pakistani families find comfort in these resources, as they help preserve faith and culture for the younger generation.
Halal food is widely available in Detroit, making life very convenient. Pakistani restaurants such as Al-Sultan, Al-Ameer and Tuhama’s are popular for their traditional dishes, while halal grocery stores provide easy access to fresh meat and desi ingredients. The cultural scene is also strong, with regular community events and Pakistan Independence Day celebrations that bring families together.
Detroit is also an important center for education. The University of Michigan in nearby Ann Arbor is one of the top universities in the United States and is highly respected worldwide. It attracts many Pakistani students for programs in engineering, medicine, business and computer science. Wayne State University, located in Detroit itself, offers strong research opportunities and has a diverse international student body. Oakland University in the suburbs is another good option for families who want quality education close to home.
7. Philadelphia Pennsylvania:
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a historic city that has also become a comfortable home for many Pakistani Muslims. The city has a sizeable Muslim population and over the years it has developed strong religious, cultural, and educational resources that make life easier for families. Mosques are spread across the city, with well-known centers such as Masjid Al-Jamia, Al-Aqsa Islamic Society and the Islamic Society of Greater Philadelphia (Al-Furqan Mosque). These mosques provide not only daily prayers but also Islamic schools, community programs and youth activities, which help Pakistani families raise their children with strong cultural and religious values.
Halal food is also widely available throughout Philadelphia. Pakistani restaurants such as New Azaad, Wah-Gi-Wah and Kabobeesh are very popular among both locals and visitors. Families can also find halal grocery stores that provide fresh meat and South Asian spices, making it easy to cook traditional meals at home. During Ramadan, the city becomes lively with community iftars and special gatherings, while Eid is celebrated with large congregational prayers and cultural events.
Education is another strong attraction in Philadelphia. The city is home to some of the most respected universities in the country. The University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League institution, is world-famous for its business, law and medical programs and attracts talented students from around the world, including many from Pakistan. Temple University and Drexel University are also highly regarded and have large international student populations. Villanova University, located nearby, provides additional opportunities in business, engineering and law. These universities give Pakistani families the confidence that their children can access top-quality education while staying close to their community.
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8. Atlanta Georgia:
Atlanta, Georgia has become an increasingly popular city for Pakistani Muslims because of its growing community, affordable lifestyle and access to strong educational institutions. Over the past few decades, many Pakistani families have moved to Atlanta, particularly to suburban areas such as Alpharetta, Decatur and Duluth, where mosques, halal markets, and cultural resources are easy to find. This makes Atlanta a comfortable place for families who want to balance professional opportunities with a faith-based lifestyle.
The Muslim presence in Atlanta is supported by several mosques and Islamic centers. The Al-Farooq Masjid is one of the largest and most recognized mosques in the Southeast, offering daily prayers, Islamic education, youth programs and Ramadan events. Other centers like the Roswell Community Masjid and Masjid Omar Bin Abdul Aziz also play a key role in providing religious and social support to families. For Pakistani Muslims, these mosques create a strong sense of belonging and ensure that children grow up connected to their religious identity.
Halal food is easy to find in Atlanta, with many grocery stores and Pakistani restaurants spread across the city. Popular spots include Zyka, Café Bombay and Purnima, which are well known for serving authentic Pakistani dishes. Families also enjoy halal butcher shops and desi grocery stores that carry South Asian ingredients, making it possible to maintain traditional cooking at home. During community events, such as Pakistan Independence Day celebrations or Eid gatherings, the city becomes even more vibrant with cultural pride and unity.
Education is another reason Pakistani families choose Atlanta. The city is home to several top universities. Emory University is one of the most respected institutions in the country, well known for its medical and business programs. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) is a world leader in engineering, computer science and technology studies, attracting many Pakistani students. Georgia State University also offers a wide range of programs and has a diverse student body with many international students. For families focused on their children’s futures, these universities provide excellent opportunities close to home.
9. Washington DC and Northern Virginia:
Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia together form one of the most important regions for Pakistani Muslims in the United States. This area is home to thousands of Pakistani families who have settled here because of the strong job market, political importance and excellent educational opportunities. The region also has one of the largest concentrations of Muslims in the country, which means mosques, halal food, and cultural centers are available almost everywhere.
In Washington, D.C. itself, families can find several mosques, including the Islamic Center of Washington, which is one of the most famous in the country. It not only serves as a place of prayer but also hosts educational programs, interfaith dialogues and cultural events. Northern Virginia, with suburbs such as Fairfax, Alexandria and Arlington, has an even larger Pakistani Muslim population. Mosques like the Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center, the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) Center and the Islamic Center of Northern Virginia are very active and provide everything from daily prayers to youth programs, Islamic schools and Ramadan gatherings. For Pakistani Muslims, these mosques offer a strong community network and make it easier to maintain religious traditions.
Halal food is widely available throughout the region. Northern Virginia is filled with halal grocery stores, desi bakeries and restaurants that serve authentic Pakistani food. Popular spots such as Ravi Kabob, Maiwand Kabob and Afghan Bistro are community favorites, while grocery stores in Fairfax and Alexandria carry fresh halal meat and Pakistani spices. Families also enjoy cultural events like Pakistan Independence Day celebrations, Eid festivals and community fundraisers that bring people together from across the region.
Education is another reason why Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia are so attractive for Pakistani families. The area is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the United States. Georgetown University, George Washington University, and American University in Washington, D.C. are world renowned for their programs in politics, law, business, and medicine. In Northern Virginia and nearby Maryland, families also have access to top institutions like George Mason University, the University of Maryland, and Howard University. These universities attract many Pakistani students each year, offering high-quality education close to strong community support.
10. Boston Massachusetts:
Boston, Massachusetts is one of the best cities in the United States for Pakistani Muslims, especially for families who value high-quality education. The city has a long history of welcoming immigrants and is home to one of the largest student populations in the country. Pakistani Muslims in Boston enjoy access to mosques, halal food, cultural events and world-class universities, all within a safe and diverse environment.
Mosques and Islamic centers are spread throughout Boston and its surrounding suburbs. The Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center is one of the largest mosques in New England and offers daily prayers, Quran classes, youth activities and community programs. Smaller mosques and prayer spaces in Cambridge, Roxbury and Quincy also serve Pakistani families, providing places for worship and community gatherings. These institutions give families a strong religious foundation and a way to stay connected with their cultural values.
Halal food is easy to find across Boston. Pakistani restaurants such as Shan-a-Punjab, Sabri, and Darbar are very popular for their authentic flavors, while halal grocery stores in neighborhoods like Cambridge and Allston carry fresh meat and South Asian spices. Families can also find Pakistani bakeries and sweet shops that provide a taste of home. During Ramadan and Eid, the community comes together for prayers, shared meals and cultural celebrations, creating a strong sense of belonging.
The biggest attraction of Boston for Pakistani Muslims is its educational strength. The city is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are globally recognized and attract students from across Pakistan for programs in science, engineering, medicine and business. Boston University and Northeastern University are also highly respected, offering diverse programs and welcoming large numbers of international students. Tufts University and Brandeis University, located just outside the city, provide additional opportunities for quality education. For Pakistani families, having such universities nearby means their children can achieve the highest academic standards without leaving a supportive community environment.
11. Tampa Florida:
Tampa, Florida has a growing Pakistani Muslim community that enjoys access to mosques, halal food and cultural gatherings in a family-friendly environment. The Islamic Society of Tampa Bay Area is one of the largest mosques in the region and provides daily prayers, Islamic education, youth activities and various Ramadan and Eid events. Smaller mosques and prayer spaces across the city also serve local families, making it easy to stay connected to faith. Halal food is widely available, with restaurants like Salem’s Grill and Pak Cuisine, as well as grocery stores carrying desi ingredients and fresh halal meat. Pakistani cultural programs and Independence Day celebrations also bring families together throughout the year.
Education is another strong point for families in Tampa. The University of South Florida (USF) is a major research university with a diverse student body and many international students, including Pakistanis. Other nearby institutions such as the University of Tampa and Stetson University College of Law also provide quality higher education. With its mosques, halal food options, cultural activities and respected universities, Tampa offers Pakistani Muslims a balanced lifestyle where they can raise children, practice their faith and pursue strong academic and career opportunities.
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12. Minneapolis Minnesota:
Minneapolis, Minnesota is a welcoming city for Pakistani Muslims, offering both a strong religious environment and good opportunities for families. The city has several mosques, with the Islamic Center of Minnesota being one of the most active, offering daily prayers, Islamic education and community programs. Halal food is widely available, with Pakistani restaurants like Crescent Moon Bakery and halal grocery stores that sell South Asian spices, fresh meat and other essentials. The local community also organizes cultural events and Eid gatherings, giving Pakistani families a sense of belonging while living in the U.S.
Education in Minneapolis is another major attraction. The University of Minnesota is a leading research university that draws students from around the world, including Pakistan, for its strong programs in engineering, business and medicine. Other nearby colleges and universities provide affordable and quality education, making it a good place for families who prioritize academics. With its mosques, halal resources, cultural activities and top universities, Minneapolis provides Pakistani Muslims with both religious comfort and professional growth opportunities in a safe and family-friendly setting.
13. San Francisco Bay Area California:
The San Francisco Bay Area in California is one of the best places in the United States for Pakistani Muslims, especially because of its strong job market, large South Asian community and easy access to Islamic resources. Cities like Fremont, Santa Clara and San Jose have significant Pakistani and Muslim populations, making it very easy for families to find mosques, halal food and cultural activities. The Islamic Society of East Bay and Muslim Community Association in Santa Clara are among the largest mosques, offering daily prayers, youth programs, Ramadan iftars and large Eid gatherings. Halal food is widely available, with restaurants such as Shalimar and Tayyabs serving authentic Pakistani dishes, while halal grocery stores carry fresh meat and traditional ingredients. Cultural festivals and Pakistani Independence Day events are also celebrated in Fremont and surrounding areas, giving families a strong sense of community.
The Bay Area is also a hub for education and career growth. Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley are among the top universities in the world, attracting students from Pakistan for programs in technology, medicine and business. The presence of Silicon Valley makes this region especially popular for Pakistani professionals in IT, engineering and startups, offering high-paying jobs and career advancement. Families benefit from excellent schools and opportunities for their children while staying close to mosques and cultural networks. With its combination of faith, culture, education and career opportunities, the Bay Area is one of the most complete and supportive places for Pakistani Muslims to live in the United States of America.
14. Phoenix Arizona:
Phoenix, Arizona is becoming an attractive place for Pakistani Muslims because of its affordable lifestyle, warm climate and growing Muslim community. The city has several mosques, including the Islamic Community Center of Phoenix, which offers daily prayers, Quran classes and big community events during Ramadan and Eid. Halal food is easy to find, with Pakistani and Middle Eastern restaurants such as Kabob Grill N Go and Karachi Palace serving authentic meals, while local halal grocery stores provide fresh meat and South Asian ingredients. Pakistani families in Phoenix also organize cultural gatherings and events, giving a strong sense of belonging in a city that is welcoming and family-oriented.
Education and career opportunities are another reason many Pakistani Muslims are moving to Phoenix. Arizona State University (ASU) is one of the largest universities in the United States and attracts many international students, including those from Pakistan, especially in engineering, business and computer science. With its mix of Islamic resources, halal food, affordable living, and strong educational institutions, Phoenix provides Pakistani Muslims with a balanced lifestyle where they can raise families, pursue careers and stay close to their culture and faith.
15. Orlando Florida:
Orlando, Florida is a popular city for Pakistani Muslims because it offers a family-friendly lifestyle, a strong Muslim community and many opportunities in both education and work. Islamic Center of Orlando - Jama Masjid is one of the main mosques, providing daily prayers, Islamic classes and large gatherings during Ramadan and Eid. Halal food is easy to find, with many Pakistani restaurants such as Ahmed Indian Restaurant and Bombay Street Kitchen serving authentic dishes, while halal grocery stores supply fresh meat and desi ingredients. Families also enjoy cultural programs, Pakistani Independence Day celebrations and social gatherings that make it easy to stay connected to their roots.
Orlando is also well known for education and career options. The University of Central Florida (UCF) is one of the largest universities in the USA, attracting students from Pakistan for fields like engineering, business and health sciences. Other colleges and institutes also provide strong academic opportunities, making the city a good choice for families who value education. With affordable living compared to many other U.S. cities, access to mosques, halal food, cultural events and quality universities, Orlando is a well-rounded and comfortable place for Pakistani Muslims to settle and grow.
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2025 Estimates: Top 25 Cities for Pakistani Muslims
| Rank | City | State | Est. Pakistani Pop. | Est. Mosques | Est. Halal Stores |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York City | NY | 92K | 275 | 310 |
| 2 | Houston | TX | 53K | 82 | 125 |
| 3 | Chicago | IL | 10K | 104 | 157 |
| 4 | Dallas | TX | 25K | 72 | 105 |
| 5 | Los Angeles | CA | 18K | 124 | 255 |
| 6 | Detroit | MI | 10K | 84 | 123 |
| 7 | Washington D.C. | DC/MD/VA | 35K | 93 | 136 |
| 8 | Philadelphia | PA | 30K | 64 | 93 |
| 9 | Atlanta | GA | 27K | 53 | 82 |
| 10 | San Francisco | CA | 26K | 64 | 103 |
| 11 | Boston | MA | 22K | 44 | 73 |
| 12 | Minneapolis | MN | 19K | 54 | 83 |
| 13 | Orlando | FL | 15K | 19 | 52 |
| 14 | Phoenix | AZ | 13K | 36 | 62 |
| 15 | Austin | TX | 12K | 21 | 47 |
| 16 | Seattle | WA | 13K | 23 | 46 |
| 17 | Tampa | FL | 11K | 17 | 43 |
| 18 | Columbus | OH | 10K | 24 | 38 |
| 19 | Las Vegas | NV | 10K | 19 | 43 |
| 20 | Charlotte | NC | 9K | 14 | 33 |
| 21 | Denver | CO | 8K | 17 | 28 |
| 22 | Raleigh | NC | 7K | 11 | 23 |
| 23 | Nashville | TN | 6.5K | 13 | 26 |
| 24 | Indianapolis | IN | 5.5K | 11 | 21 |
| 25 | Kansas City | MO | 4.5K | 9 | 18 |
📊 2025 Projection Methodology
These estimates for Pakistani Muslim populations in U.S. cities for August 2025 are based on a combination of:
- 2020 U.S. Census Data (Asian and South Asian ancestry reports, particularly Pakistani origin).
- Pew Research Center Muslim Demographics (2017–2023) showing overall Muslim growth rates in the U.S.
- Community surveys from ISPU (Institute for Social Policy and Understanding) and city-based Islamic centers.
- Natural growth & migration trend adjustments: assumed 2–3% annual growth in Pakistani Muslim communities due to family reunification, student visas, and work-based immigration.
- Local mosque and halal business directories cross-referenced from platforms like Salatomatic and Islamic Finder.
📚 References
Conclusion:
Choosing the right place to live in the USA is very important for Pakistani Muslims. Factors like nearby mosques, Islamic schools, halal food, good universities and a supportive community make life easier. Cities like Houston, Chicago, New York and Dallas have long established Pakistani communities.
Newer places like Orlando, Tampa and Phoenix are also becoming popular because they offer affordable living and growing Muslim networks. But still, overseas Pakistani can never forget the value and respect they get in their respective homeland.
