Where did a majority of Irish immigrants settle in the United States during the 19th century?

The majority of Irish immigrants during the 19th century settled in urban areas, particularly in cities like Boston and New York. This phenomenon was largely driven by economic and social factors. Many Irish immigrants fled their homeland due to the Great Famine, which decimated food supplies and led to dire poverty. As a result, they sought immediate work opportunities that were more readily available in urban centers rather than in rural areas or farms.

In cities, Irish immigrants often found employment in low-wage jobs such as laborers, factory workers, and domestic servants. The established Irish community in these urban areas provided a support network that further encouraged new arrivals to settle in cities. This urban migration contributed to the growth of the Irish population in the northeastern United States, where they played a significant role in the developing industrial economy.