Introduction
The surge of legal and illegal immigration under the Biden-Harris administration is significantly transforming the United States’ job market. The influx of foreign-born workers has eased labor shortages, but also pushed up the jobless rate among foreign-born workers and the overall workforce. This article delves into the statistics and implications of this migration trend.
Main Article
According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the United States has experienced a net gain of more than 9 million immigrants since the end of 2020. The CBO report highlights the impact of this surge on the U.S. economy and workforce.
The Makeup of the Migrant Population
Of the 9 million immigrants, 2.6 million are lawful permanent residents, including green-card holders and those who entered the country through legal channels such as family or employment-based visas. The remaining 6.5 million are categorized as “other foreign nationals,” who crossed the southern border without prior authorization.
Labor Force Participation
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that nearly 30 million foreign-born workers were employed in 2023, accounting for about 23% of the overall workforce. Illegal immigration puts downward pressure on low-skilled wages, as many of those entering the country are of working age and competing for jobs.
Construction and Healthcare Industries
Construction laborers are the most common occupation for migrants, followed by maids and house cleaners, and then cooks. Additionally, the healthcare industry has also seen an influx of immigrant workers, which has both positive and negative impacts on the industry.
State and Local Spending
Increased immigration raises state and local governments’ spending, particularly on education, healthcare, and housing. For instance, New York City spent $4.3 billion from July 2022 to March 2024 to accommodate immigrants and comply with existing local and state housing policies.
Wage Growth and Unemployment Rate
CBO’s estimates suggest that the surge in immigration will lead to slower wage growth for some workers, particularly those with 12 or fewer years of education. However, the overall unemployment rate is expected to be mostly unaffected by the surge, with the initial high rate of unemployment offset by increased demand for goods and services.
Conclusion
The Biden-Harris administration’s policies have led to a surge in immigration, which is transforming the U.S. job market. While there are both positive and negative impacts on the economy, it is essential to continue monitoring the situation and developing policies that benefit all American workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the current trend in U.S. immigration?
A: The United States has experienced a net gain of more than 9 million immigrants since the end of 2020, with a majority entering the country without prior authorization.
Q2: How is the surge in immigration impacting the U.S. workforce?
A: The influx of foreign-born workers is easing labor shortages, but also pushing up the jobless rate among foreign-born workers and the overall workforce.
Q3: What are the implications for the construction and healthcare industries?
A: Construction laborers are the most common occupation for migrants, while the healthcare industry has also seen an influx of immigrant workers.
Q4: How does the surge in immigration impact state and local spending?
A: Increased immigration raises state and local governments’ spending, particularly on education, healthcare, and housing.
Q5: Will the surge in immigration impact the unemployment rate?
A: The overall unemployment rate is expected to be mostly unaffected by the surge, with the initial high rate of unemployment offset by increased demand for goods and services.
