Data from the 1980 Census, post-Census supplements, and other sources are used to establish a base of information on the Asian American community in the tri-state (New York/New Jersey/Connecticut) metropolitan area, in order to assess the social service needs of this population. The Asian American presence and the growth and diversity of the community are detailed. The study examines the dynamics of growth in the Asian community in the areas of immigration, citizenship, and ethnicity by birthplace. Key findings on Asian American family life in the region are presented in the following categories: (1) natural increase; (2) age and sex; (3) marital patterns; (4) children in the household; (5) household size and type; and (6) subfamilies. The report provides statistics on the community's educational characteristics, in terms of English language proficiency and educational attainment, and its economic profile, in terms of labor force participation, occupations, and income; findings on housing conditions are also presented. On the basis of these data, the study identifies the following human service needs of the tri-state Asian American community: (1) intensive English language instruction; (2) bilingual and remedial education; (3) business and employment opportunities and programs; (4) affordable housing; (5) child-care centers; (6) family service centers; and (7) health care. The report includes 28 graphs and charts. (AF)