The black locust is native from Pennsylvania to northern Georgia and westward as far as Arkansas and Oklahoma, but has been widely spread in other areas of the world.

The tree grows on a variety of sites, ranging from moist slopes to dry soils - preferring sandy or rocky soil. It is found in old fields, open areas, streamsides, woods, and along roadsides and fencerows. Black locust is shade intolerant and does very well in disturbed areas.