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Fact check: What is the demographic breakdown of the Muslim population in the UK as of 2025?

Checked on August 13, 2025

1. Summary of the results

Based on the available analyses, the Muslim population in the UK has experienced significant growth and represents a substantial demographic group as of recent census data. The 2021 UK census shows that Muslims comprise 3.9 million people, representing 6.5% of the total population [1]. Another source indicates the population has grown to 4 million, making up 6% of the total population [2].

The Muslim population demonstrated remarkable growth of 150% between 2001 and 2021 [3]. This growth is particularly pronounced among younger demographics, with 11.2% of the 0-18 age group in England identifying as Muslim [3] and 10% of British children identifying as Muslim [4].

The demographic is characterized by its youthful profile and increasing integration into British society [2]. The analyses also highlight the diversity within the British Muslim community [5], though specific ethnic or regional breakdowns are not detailed in the provided sources.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question seeks 2025 demographic data, but the analyses primarily draw from 2021 census data [5], creating a temporal gap in the requested information. The sources acknowledge this limitation, noting they do not provide a clear demographic breakdown of the Muslim population in the UK as of 2025 [3].

Projective analyses suggest dramatic future growth, with estimates that Muslims could make up 10-30% of the population by 2100 [3]. However, these long-term projections may serve different political narratives - those concerned about cultural change might emphasize higher estimates, while those promoting multiculturalism might focus on integration success stories.

The analyses lack detailed breakdowns by:

  • Ethnic origins (Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Arab, etc.)
  • Regional distribution across UK nations and cities
  • Socioeconomic status and educational attainment
  • Generational differences between immigrant and UK-born Muslims

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question itself does not contain misinformation but requests data that may not exist in comprehensive form for 2025. The question assumes availability of current-year demographic breakdowns when census data is typically collected every 10 years, with the most recent being 2021.

There is potential for selective use of growth statistics depending on the questioner's intent. Organizations like the Muslim Council of Britain [3] [5] may emphasize positive integration aspects, while other groups might focus on rapid growth rates to support different political arguments.

The framing as a neutral demographic inquiry could mask underlying concerns about cultural change or political representation, as demographic data about Muslim populations is often used in debates about immigration policy, religious accommodation, and social cohesion in the UK.

Want to dive deeper?
What percentage of the UK population identifies as Muslim as of 2025?
How does the Muslim population in the UK vary by region and city?
What are the primary countries of origin for Muslim immigrants to the UK?
How has the Muslim population in the UK changed since the 2011 census?
What are the socioeconomic characteristics of the Muslim population in the UK, such as education and employment rates?