The Most Commonly Spoken Languages in the United States

Written by Nate Webber

Idiomatic USA Chief Content Officer

This article has been moved here. In the meantime, check out some interesting facts about the most commonly spoken languages in the United States and how Idiomatic USA can help. 


In the United States, a mosaic of languages reflects its rich cultural diversity, with English unequivocally leading as the predominant language spoken. However, the linguistic landscape extends far beyond just English, encompassing a variety of languages spoken by communities across the country. The most commonly spoken languages, after English, include Spanish, Chinese (including Mandarin and Cantonese), Tagalog (including Filipino), Vietnamese, Arabic, French, Korean, Russian, and Hindi. Spanish holds a significant place, spoken by a large portion of the population, especially due to the extensive Hispanic and Latino communities.

Further exploration into the data reveals interesting nuances, such as a notable percentage of Chinese and Vietnamese speakers reporting lower proficiency in English, highlighting the linguistic challenges and diversity within these communities. These languages are not just a means of communication but also serve as a bridge connecting individuals to their heritage, culture, and community.

The presence of these languages underscores the importance of multilingual education, translation services, and cultural preservation efforts, ensuring that speakers of all languages can fully participate in American society. This linguistic diversity also poses challenges and opportunities in areas like education, healthcare, and public services, where language accessibility can significantly impact service delivery and community engagement.

languages of the united states

Keywords: English, Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Arabic, French, Korean, Russian, Hindi, linguistic diversity, cultural preservation, multilingual education, translation services.