Ohio's economy is significantly influenced by its immigrant population, which constitutes about 4.9% of the state's total population and 6.1% of its labor force [df941ab9]. Immigrants are vital contributors across various sectors, accounting for 8% of entrepreneurs, 11.7% of STEM workers, and 5% of nurses in Ohio [df941ab9]. In 2022 alone, immigrants paid approximately $7 billion in taxes and contributed $18.6 billion to the state's economy through their spending [df941ab9].
The immigrant demographic in Ohio is diverse, with notable populations from India (11%), Mexico (7.7%), and China (5.1%) [df941ab9]. The impact of immigrants extends beyond economic contributions; for instance, Haitian immigrants have played a crucial role in revitalizing Springfield's economy [df941ab9]. Furthermore, 34,204 college students who are immigrants contributed around $1.2 billion to Ohio's economy [df941ab9].
Immigrants also hold significant positions in healthcare and technology, representing 26.9% of doctors and 26% of software developers in the state [df941ab9]. Additionally, there are 37,200 immigrant entrepreneurs in Ohio who collectively earned $944 million, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit within these communities [df941ab9].
The role of undocumented immigrants is also noteworthy, as they contributed $616.2 million in taxes, despite their precarious legal status [df941ab9]. Moreover, Ohio's refugee population has demonstrated a remarkable 97% employment rate, further illustrating the positive impact of immigration on the labor market [df941ab9].
While the influx of immigrants can initially lead to wage suppression for native workers, studies indicate that the long-term benefits include enhanced employment opportunities and wage growth for the native population [df941ab9]. Overall, immigration is a critical factor in driving innovation and economic growth in Ohio, making it an essential component of the state's future prosperity.