Irish eyes are smiling on Spokane, the second-most Irish city in America per Apartment Guide

Apartment Guide released data today on the 10 most Irish cities in America – great timing, right? – and Spokane made the list at a surprising No. 2.

In its report, Apartment Guide said 32 million Americans reported Irish ancestry in the 2018 Census. The Irish were originally unwelcomed in America after they fled their country’s famine in the mid-1800s, and now March is Irish-American Heritage Month as declared in 1991.

In the runner-up spot, the Lilac City was behind Pittsburgh by a mere .1%. Here’s what Apartment Guide said about Spokane:

“The Eastern Washington city of Spokane almost made the top spot on our list with 14.1% Irish (nearly 31,000 people). Unlike the Irish ghettos of Boston and other East Coast metropolises, the Pacific Northwest, when settled in the mid-1800s by Irish newcomers, was delightfully unbiased. The settlers took advantage of the land and opportunities, and many earned wealth, or at least a solidly comfortable lifestyle.

“Irish eyes are still smiling on Spokane today, as the city is a mecca for all things Ireland-related. The Sister Cities Association of Spokane has a partnership with Limerick, Ireland, to encourage the appreciation of Irish and American cultures between the two cities. In addition, the area often plays host to Irish musical and theater performances.

“Settle in Spokane for an average of about $1,200 a month for a one-bedroom apartment.” Whoa – $1,200 a month?

Boise made the list at No. 6 with 12.9% of its population identifying as Irish. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!