Final answer:
The highest concentrations of Asian Americans are predominantly in California and major cities such as New York City. California saw a notable increase in its Asian population, and historic immigration trends explain these patterns.
Step-by-step explanation:
The largest concentrations of Asian Americans are found in areas of California and in major cities across the United States. Notably, California's Asian population increased by 31.5 percent since 2000 according to the 2010 census, owing to the history of immigration through centers like Angel Island, which played a similar role in the West to what Ellis Island did in the East for European immigrants. Another significant reason is the migratory patterns, which historically saw more Asian immigrants enter through California, while European immigrants tended to come in through New York.
Large urban areas on the East Coast, such as New York City, also have significant Asian American populations, where a myriad of cultures including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese can be found. This diversity reflects the different waves and motivations for migration over time. Furthermore, increased national attention to issues affecting Asian Americans, such as anti-Asian hate crimes, has highlighted the continuous impact of this demographic on American society.