Where Do Amish People Live?

The first large group of Amish arrived in the U.S. in the early 1800s and settled in Lancaster County, PA, according to Learn Religions.

Pennsylvania has the largest population of Amish people, estimated at more than 81,000 in 2020 according to “Amish Population, 2020.”  (Young Center for Anabaptist and Pietist Studies, Elizabethtown College.) In fact, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is home to approximately 30,000 Amish and their presence is a significant draw for tourism. Chester, York, Belleville, and Mifflin counties are also home to Amish communities.

The Amish have also have increasingly settled in Ohio, most notably in Holmes County. Mississippi, North Carolina and Virginia have also experienced a large increase in Amish settlements.

Amish settlements also exist outside the United States. You’ll find Amish communities in in Canada, Bolivia, and Argentina and more.

Are There Different Kinds of Amish?

Yes, there are many kinds of Amish. They share common beliefs regarding the use of horse and buggy, rejecting the use of public utilities and televisions, and are exempt from military service. They have differing views on dress protocols, use of technology, and even slight differences in their language.

Commonalities can also have slight variations among the different settlements. For instance, Amish residents in Belleville, Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, ride buggies with bright yellow cabs (known as Byler Amish), whereas Lancaster County Amish ride in dark gray buggies.

Where Can I Stay Among the Amish?

There are so many things to see and do in Lancaster County including Dutch Wonderland amusement park, Sight and Sound Theatre, biking, hiking, craft breweries, the Historic Strasburg Railroad and more. While you’re here, you’ll need a place to stay and we’re confident you won’t find better accommodations and amenities than you’ll experience at AmishView Inn & Suites. Our new website now offers 360-degree room views of our double queen, grand king, studio suites, and 1- & 2-bedroom suites. This virtual experience allows you to “try before you buy” (or book!) your stay with AmishView.

While you’re at the hotel on our Plain & Fancy Farm Property, you may also learn more about the Amish by taking one of the guided tours offered by The Amish Experience. Their Visit in Person (VIP) tour is an excellent opportunity to meet and speak with some of Lancaster County’s Amish residents.

We look forward to seeing you very soon!