Immigrants Contribute Significantly to U.S. Economy, Study Finds

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A new 30-year study by the CATO Institute has found that immigrants and their children have consistently reduced the U.S. public debt, contributing more in taxes than they consume in benefits. The report also shows that immigrants have lower incarceration rates and are more likely to report crimes than native-born Americans, contributing to safer communities.

Why it matters

The findings of this comprehensive study challenge the Trump administration's anti-immigrant policies and rhetoric, which have sought to portray immigrants as a burden on the U.S. economy and a threat to public safety. This report provides data-driven evidence that immigrants are in fact valuable contributors to the country.

The details

The CATO Institute study found that without the financial contributions of immigrants, the U.S. public debt would have exceeded 200% of GDP, rather than the 2023 level of 94-99%. Immigrants and their children have saved the U.S. approximately $14.5 trillion over three decades, even for low-skilled immigrants without bachelor's degrees. The report also shows that immigrants use less welfare per capita than native-born Americans and have lower incarceration rates, while being more likely to report crimes to the police.

• The CATO Institute study was completed in 2026, covering a 30-year period.
• The report's findings contradict policies and rhetoric from the Trump administration, which was in office from 2017 to 2021.

What’s next

The findings of this report are likely to fuel ongoing debates about immigration policy in the United States, with advocates for more welcoming policies pointing to the economic benefits highlighted in the study.