America's Jewish geography is undergoing a dramatic transformation, shifting from its historical concentration in the Northeast to flourishing communities across the South and West. This fascinating evolution reflects broader demographic patterns while revealing unique insights about Jewish identity, community formation, and cultural adaptation.

Demographic expert Ira Sheskin takes us through the numbers, showing how the Jewish population in the Northeast has declined from two-thirds after WWII to approximately 40% today, while Southern states — particularly Florida — have experienced remarkable growth. He notes the concentration in metropolitan areas while rural Southern states maintain minimal Jewish presence. This isn't merely statistical shuffling but represents profound changes in how Jewish Americans live, work, and practice their faith.

Through personal narratives, we hear from those who've made this journey. Mark Goldman shares his experience relocating from New York to Atlanta in 1990, drawn by professional opportunities but facing occasional discomfort in a region with complicated historical attitudes toward Jews. Meanwhile, Israeli entrepreneur Tal Shmueli provides a fresh perspective on Austin's rapidly growing Jewish community, describing how in just four years he's witnessed an explosion of Jewish businesses, cultural offerings, and community infrastructure.

The conversation takes a revealing turn when discussing religious practice and identity. Miami stands out as an exception to national trends, with younger Jews actually more likely to maintain strong connections to Israel and religious tradition than their elders. Chabad emerges as a particularly successful model for engaging Jews across regions, adapting its approach to be welcoming and community-focused while maintaining traditional values. This raises fascinating questions about how Jewish identity will continue to evolve in these new geographical contexts.

Want to understand how American Jewish communities are reinventing themselves in unexpected places? Listen now to hear insights from those experiencing this transformation firsthand and discover what it might mean for the future of Jewish American identity.

Support Our Work
The Center for Demographics and Policy focuses on research and analysis of global, national, and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time. It involves Chapman students in demographic research under the supervision of the Center’s senior staff.

Students work with the Center’s director and engage in research that will serve them well as they look to develop their careers in business, the social sciences, and the arts. Students also have access to our advisory board, which includes distinguished Chapman faculty and major demographic scholars from across the country and the world.

For additional information, please contact Mahnaz Asghari, Associate Director for the Center for Demographics and Policy, at (714) 744-7635 or [email protected].

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This show is presented by the Chapman Center for Demographics and Policy, which focuses on research and analysis of global, national and regional demographic trends and explores policies that might produce favorable demographic results over time.