Gujarati Motel Owners Defy Dangers of America's Gun Culture

As of October 2025, Gujarati immigrants have cemented their dominance in the US motel industry, owning over 60% of motels nationwide. Nearly 80% of these motel owners trace their roots to the Indian state of Gujarat, particularly districts like Navsari, Surat, and Anand.

The Gujarati motel success story began in the 1970s when early immigrants arrived in America with little education but a strong entrepreneurial spirit. They saw an opportunity in the motel business, which provided residence, income, and independence all in one place. Over the next five decades, this family-run model of hard work, frugality, and community support transformed into a multibillion-dollar empire.

However, the motel business in America has also proven to be a deadly endeavor. Just this year, seven Gujaratis linked to the industry have been killed in violent incidents, often due to the country's pervasive gun culture. Motel owners now face the grim reality of installing bulletproof glass at reception desks and keeping minimal cash on hand to avoid confrontations.

Despite the risks, the Gujarati community remains undeterred. They continue to see the motel business as a reliable path to financial security and independence, passing the torch to younger generations. While some scions prefer to lease out properties, many still embrace the hands-on, 24/7 lifestyle that has defined their community's success in the US.