Michigan's immigrant population rises slightly, survey shows

Michigan doesn't have a huge immigrant population, but is unique in that half of them are from Asia and the middle East.   - - Donna Poisl

By Niraj Warikoo and Kristi Tanner, Detroit Free Press Staff Writers

Michigan's immigrant population has slightly increased during the past decade but still is small compared with other states, according to new census figures released today.

The state's immigrant population is unique: Almost half have roots in Asia and the Arab world -- the highest percentage in any mainland state. Only Alaska and Hawaii have immigrant populations with a higher percentage from Asia.

Overall, there are more than 600,000 immigrants in Michigan out of a population of less than 10 million. Mexico is the country from which immigrants in Michigan are most likely to hail, followed by India, Iraq and Canada.
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