Which Louisiana Parishes Have the Most Irish Residents?

LOUISIANA (KMDL-FM) - Every year when St. Patrick’s Day rolls around, people across Louisiana celebrate Irish culture with parades, festivals, Patty in the Parc, and plenty of green. But have you ever wondered which Louisiana Parishes actually have the largest Irish population?

Thanks to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, we can get a clearer picture of where Irish ancestry is most common in the Bayou State.

The History of Irish Immigration to Louisiana

Irish immigrants began arriving in Louisiana in large numbers during the early 1800s, with the population increasing even more during the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s. Many settled in and around New Orleans, where work was available in shipping, construction, and trade according to wikipedia.com.

READ MORE: 2026 Patty in the Parc in Downtown Lafayette – What You Need to Know

Over time, Irish communities helped shape Louisiana’s culture by building churches, schools, and civic organizations. Their influence is still visible today through long-standing traditions like St. Patrick’s Day parades and historic landmarks tied to Irish heritage.

Get our free mobile app

How Many People in Louisiana Claim Irish Ancestry?

According to nola.com, more than 302,335 Louisiana residents claim Irish ancestry, representing roughly 6.5% of the Louisiana's population.

While Irish heritage can be found statewide, some Louisiana parishes have significantly larger Irish populations than others.

READ MORE: Who Will Be Crowned King & Queen of Green at Patty in the Parc 2026?

Louisiana Parishes With the Most Irish Residents

Based on U.S. Census data through worlpopulationreview.com, these are the top Louisiana parishes with the largest number of residents claiming Irish ancestry:

1. Jefferson Parish — 35,225
2. St. Tammany Parish — 32,245
3. East Baton Rouge Parish — 29,745
4. Orleans Parish — 21,920
5. Caddo Parish — 18,853
6. Livingston Parish — 15,553
7. Calcasieu Parish — 15,149
8. Bossier Parish — 13,435
9. Ouachita Parish — 13,293
10. Lafayette Parish — 13,182

You can read more about Louisiana's Irish population at worldpopulationreview.com.