San Francisco, California, Ranks Among Top 10 Cities With the Highest

ASYLUM - You arrive in the United States seeking protection, carrying evidence of persecution, fear, and hope for safety. Yet one factor outside the merits of your case may shape your future more than any other: geography. New data shows that where an asylum case is heard can dramatically influence whether it is granted or denied.

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The research by immigration lawyers at The Mendoza Law Firm analyzed immigration court decisions issued between 2020 and 2025, with outcomes averaged among all judges in each immigration court, using data from TRAC Immigration at Syracuse University. Cities were ranked based on the percentage of cases granted asylum versus denied to ensure consistent comparison across jurisdictions.

Top 10 U.S. Cities With the Highest Asylum Acceptance Rates
Immigration Court (City)	State	Total Decisions 2020-2025 (Averaged Among All Judges)	% Granted Asylum	% Denied	Rank
San Francisco	California	657	67.55	29.49	1
Sacramento	California	477	66.52	32.36	2
Honolulu	Hawaii	222	61.00	36.90	3
New York	New York	635	59.21	38.45	4
Las Vegas	Nevada	679	59.16	36.52	5
West Valley	Utah	1070	58.30	40.04	6
Concord	California	303	57.08	41.69	7
Chicago	Illinois	453	55.61	41.52	8
Imperial	California	291	55.42	32.62	9
Van Nuys	California	405	47.11	48.84	10

San Francisco, California, ranks first nationwide, granting asylum in 67.55% of cases and denying 29.49%, based on an average of 657 decisions among all judges. Another 2.97% of cases resulted in alternative forms of relief.

Looking at the study, a spokesperson from The Mendoza Law Firm commented:

“According to the data, asylum approval rates differ substantially by location, even when decisions are averaged across all judges within each court, with San Francisco showing one of the highest acceptance rates nationwide.

“For asylum seekers nationwide, these geographic differences can significantly impact case outcomes, independent of the underlying claims.”

What Asylum Seekers Should Know: Navigating a System Where Location Can Decide Your Fate

Here’s a practical survival guide for individuals seeking asylum in the United States:

Recognize the Geographic Red Flags

Asylum approval rates vary dramatically by immigration court
Some courts deny the majority of cases regardless of merit
High denial rates often reflect local court trends, not weaker claims
Filing location can matter as much as evidence quality

The Venue Awareness Rule

Understand that asylum outcomes differ sharply by city and court
Research historical grant and denial rates before filing when lawful options exist
Avoid assuming uniform treatment across jurisdictions
Seek legal advice early to evaluate venue-related risks

The Legal Preparation Protocol

Work with immigration attorneys experienced in local court practices
Prepare detailed, well-documented claims tailored to stricter courts
Anticipate higher scrutiny in low-approval jurisdictions
Strengthen corroborating evidence when filing outside high-grant cities

If You’re Facing a Denial or Removal Risk

Consult an immigration attorney immediately
Explore appeals, motions to reopen, or alternative relief options
Document all filings, decisions, and deadlines carefully
Avoid proceeding without legal guidance, especially in high-denial courts

Methodology

The study was conducted by The Mendoza Law Firm, which specializes in immigration law and personal injury cases. The firm provides legal representation to clients facing deportation, seeking immigration status adjustments, and pursuing compensation for accident-related injuries.

The study analyzed immigration court decisions issued between 2020 and 2025, with outcomes averaged among all judges in each immigration court, using data from TRAC Immigration at Syracuse University. Cities were ranked based on the percentage of cases granted asylum versus denied to ensure consistent comparison across jurisdictions.

Data Sources: