Pandemic effects on social capital in residents and non-residents of Chinese immigrant enclaves in Philadelphia

•Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on social capital in Chinese immigrants varied depending on residence in enclaves and type of enclave.•During the pandemic, Philadelphia Chinese immigrants overall engaged less in groups and citizenship activities compared to pre-pandemic.•They also reported more support from individuals and more neighborhood trust during the pandemic compared to before the pandemic.•The pandemic's effects were more pronounced in established ethnic enclaves.•The pandemic revealed both vulnerability and resilience among Chinese immigrants in terms of their social capital.