Dallas, Texas, is home to approximately 1.3 million residents, with nearly 25% of the population being foreign-born. The immigrant demographic is predominantly from Latin America, comprising 75% of the foreign-born population, while 12.3% hail from Asia, 9.2% from Africa, and 2.8% from Europe. Notably, 42.5% of these immigrants arrived in the U.S. before the year 2000, indicating a long-standing presence in the community [7bb3e673].
In 2022, 68.1% of foreign-born individuals were employed, contributing significantly to the local economy. The median household income for these immigrants stands at $67,357, which is 11% less than that of U.S.-born residents. However, despite this income gap, foreign-born individuals account for 30% of Dallas' workforce, highlighting their essential role in various sectors [7bb3e673].
The economic impact of immigrant workers in Dallas is substantial, with their total income reaching $10.7 billion in 2022. This figure translates to an impressive $8.2 billion in after-tax spending, further stimulating the local economy [7bb3e673]. The analysis emphasizes that without foreign-born residents, approximately 30% of jobs in Dallas would remain unfilled, underscoring the critical nature of immigrant labor in maintaining the city's economic vitality [7bb3e673].
As the conversation around immigration continues, it is essential to recognize the contributions of immigrants not only in Dallas but across the United States. The blending of these narratives—highlighting the economic power of both legal and illegal immigrants—reinforces the need for comprehensive immigration reform that acknowledges the benefits immigrants bring to the economy [d903a610][5b886cef].