Russians: Russians make up the largest ethnic group in Brighton Beach. They began immigrating to the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and their numbers grew significantly after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Many Russian immigrants in Brighton Beach speak Russian as their first language and maintain close ties to their home country.
Ukrainians: Ukrainians are another large ethnic group in Brighton Beach. Like the Russians, they began immigrating to the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and their numbers also increased after the fall of the Soviet Union. Ukrainians in Brighton Beach often speak Ukrainian as their first language and have a strong sense of Ukrainian identity.
Other Eastern European Groups: In addition to Russians and Ukrainians, Brighton Beach is home to a number of other Eastern European ethnic groups, including Belarusians, Moldovans, and Poles. These groups also immigrated to the area in significant numbers after the fall of the Soviet Union and have contributed to the neighborhood's diverse cultural landscape.
Jewish Population: Brighton Beach also has a large Jewish population. Many Jewish immigrants from the former Soviet Union settled in the area in the 1970s and 1980s. They have established a number of synagogues and other Jewish institutions in the neighborhood.
Other Ethnic Groups: In addition to the groups mentioned above, Brighton Beach is home to a variety of other ethnic groups, including Greeks, Italians, and Latinos. These groups contribute to the neighborhood's rich cultural diversity.
Overall, Brighton Beach is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that is home to a wide range of ethnic groups. The influence of these groups can be seen in the neighborhood's restaurants, shops, cultural events, and languages spoken.