Islam’s presence in Europe spans centuries, from the Moorish rule in Spain to Ottoman influences in the Balkans and modern migration waves. As of October 2025, Europe’s Muslim population totals around 46 million, accounting for approximately 6% of the continent’s 744 million residents. This figure reflects growth driven by higher fertility rates, immigration, and conversions, according to recent Pew Research Center data. These communities contribute vibrantly to Europe’s social, economic, and cultural landscape, from culinary innovations to political representation, while navigating integration debates.
This SEO-optimized article ranks the top 10 European countries by absolute Muslim population size, based on 2025 estimates from credible sources like Pew Research, national censuses, and demographic reports. We’ve cross-verified data for accuracy, noting variances where estimates differ (e.g., due to underreporting in censuses). Search terms like “Muslim population Europe 2025” or “largest Muslim communities in Europe” will guide readers here for reliable insights.
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1. Russia: 16 Million Muslims (11% of Population)
Russia holds the largest Muslim population in Europe at an estimated 16 million in 2025, or about 11% of its 146 million total residents. This includes ethnic groups like Tatars, Bashkirs, and Chechens, with roots in medieval conversions via the Volga Bulgars. Recent analyses confirm this range (14-16 million), though some sources suggest up to 20 million due to migration from Central Asia. Moscow’s mosques and regional autonomy in Tatarstan exemplify cultural integration, with Muslims influencing energy and military sectors.
2. France: 6.7 Million Muslims (9% of Population)
France’s Muslim community numbers around 6.7 million in 2025, comprising 9% of its 68 million population. Primarily of North African descent from post-colonial migration, this group has grown steadily. Estimates vary slightly (6-7 million), but 6.7 million aligns with consistent projections. Paris’s Grand Mosque and halal markets highlight fusion with French secularism (laïcité), though topics like the hijab fuel policy discussions. French Muslims excel in arts, sports, and business.
3. Germany: 5.5 Million Muslims (6.5% of Population)
Germany’s 5.5 million Muslims represent about 6.5% of its 84 million people in 2025, up from 5.3-5.6 million in 2020 due to refugee inflows and births. Turkish-origin communities dominate, supplemented by Syrians and Afghans. While some estimates reach 6 million, official 2023 figures support 5.5 million as a conservative 2025 projection. Berlin’s vibrant neighborhoods and the German Islam Conference foster dialogue, with Muslims key in automotive and tech industries.
4. United Kingdom: 4 Million Muslims (6% of Population)
The UK is home to 4 million Muslims in 2025, or 6% of its 68 million residents, per the latest Muslim Council of Britain census analysis. South Asian roots from Commonwealth ties drive this, with London hosting over 1.5 million. This marks a rise from 3.9 million in 2021, reflecting natural growth. Iconic sites like East London’s mosques and contributions from figures like Sadiq Khan underscore integration successes amid diversity challenges.
5. Italy: 3 Million Muslims (5% of Population)
Italy counts approximately 3 million Muslims in 2025, making up 5% of its 59 million population. Moroccan and Albanian migrants form the core, with recent foreign resident data showing 1.7 million Muslims among immigrants. Estimates hover at 2.7-3 million, confirming the figure’s reliability. Sicily’s Islamic heritage sites and Milan’s multicultural festivals blend history with modernity, boosting sectors like fashion and agriculture.
6. Bosnia and Herzegovina: 1.59 Million Muslims (51% of Population)
Bosnia and Herzegovina has 1.59 million Muslims, over half of its 3.14 million population in 2025. The 2013 census reported 50.7% (1.79 million of 3.53 million), with stable percentages amid population decline. Ottoman-era Islam shapes Sarajevo’s architecture and Sufi traditions. Post-war resilience shines in halal tourism and interfaith efforts, supporting EU integration goals.
7. Albania: 1.26 Million Muslims (46% of Population)
Albania’s Muslim population stands at 1.26 million in 2025, or 46% of its 2.77 million residents—a notable shift from earlier 59% estimates. The 2023 census revealed 45.7% (down from 50.67% projections), marking the first time below 50% in centuries due to secular trends and underreporting. Bektashi Sufism prevails, with Tirana’s mosques symbolizing tolerant revival post-communism. This community drives remittances and cultural exports.
8. Belgium: 879,000 Muslims (7.5% of Population)
Belgium hosts 879,000 Muslims, about 7.5% of its 11.7 million people in 2025. Moroccan and Turkish groups predominate, with Brussels at 25% concentration. Estimates range 5-8%, but 879,000 fits demographic models. The Grand Mosque and fusion foods like halal frites enrich urban life, though security dialogues continue.
9. Bulgaria: 861,000 Muslims (13% of Population)
Bulgaria’s 861,000 Muslims account for 13% of its 6.7 million population in 2025. The 2021 census showed 638,708 (9.8%), but updated estimates adjust upward for growth among Turkish and Pomak communities. Rhodope traditions and rose oil production highlight their economic role, with post-communist mosque revivals strengthening ties.
10. Austria: 720,000 Muslims (8% of Population)
Austria’s 720,000 Muslims comprise 8% of its 9 million residents in 2025, per 2021 census trends (745,608 at 8.3%). Turkish and Bosnian origins trace to labor migration. Vienna’s Islamic Centre promotes interfaith work, with Muslims prominent in sports and academia.
Navigating Europe’s Muslim Demographics: Challenges and Opportunities
Verified 2025 data shows Europe’s Muslim share at 6%, with projections to 7-14% by 2050 depending on migration. While original estimates held for most countries, updates were needed for Albania (decline to 46%) and Germany (refined to 5.5 million). Growth enriches aging societies but sparks Islamophobia concerns—addressed through inclusive policies.
For deeper dives into “European Muslim demographics 2025,” bookmark this guide. What’s your view on faith and integration in Europe? Comment below!
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