In this article, we will list 5 states with the highest percentage of illegal immigrants in the United States. If you want to check out our detailed analysis on immigration stats and dynamics, go straight to 15 States with the Highest Percentage of Illegal Immigrants.
5 – Arizona
Illegal immigrants percentage: 4.99%
Located in the southwestern region of the United States, Arizona is home to more than 7 million people. Nevada is located in the northwest, and California is located to the west of Arizona. The capital of Arizona is Phoenix, with a 1.625 million population. At about 80%, the majority of the illegal immigrant population of Arizona originates from Mexico. We estimate that at around 363,000, 4.99 % of Arizona’s population comprises illegal immigrants.
4 – New Jersey
Illegal immigrants percentage: 6.26%
Located in the Northeastern region of the United States, New Jersey is the most densely populated state. The north and northeastern boundaries of New Jersey are surrounded by New York. Delaware and Pennsylvania are located toward its west. The capital of New Jersey is Trenton, with a total population of 90,457 people.
New Jersey is quite accommodating of illegal immigrants. In New Jersey, illegal immigrants enjoy some of the rights of regular US citizens, such as minimum wage benefits. New Jersey’s 568,500 illegal immigrants make up 6.26% of its population.
3 – Texas
Illegal immigrants percentage: 6.77%
Located in the southwestern region of the United States, Texas is home to more than 29 million people. It is bordered by Arkansas to the northeast, Louisiana to the east, and Oklahoma to the north. The capital of Texas is Austin, with a total population of 964,177. The majority of illegal immigrants in Texas are Mexicans. Accounting for 6.77% of its total population, 1,982,500 illegal immigrants live in Texas.
2 – Nevada
Illegal immigrants percentage: 7.4%
Nevada is the 7th largest state in terms of total area. Toward its northwest lies Idaho, and California is located on its west. Nevada is home to more than 3 million people. Its capital, Carson City, has a population of 58,993 people. Up until recently, Nevada had the highest proportion of illegal immigrants. As of now, there are 230,500 illegal immigrants in Nevada. Illegal immigrants account for 7.4% of Nevada’s population.
1 – California
Illegal immigrants percentage: 7.63%
California has a population of more than 39 million people, making it the most populous state. Oregon lies toward the north of California. On its east, California is bordered by Nevada and Arizona. The capital of California is Sacramento, with a population of 525,041 people.
At around 7.63%, California has the highest percentage of illegal immigrants among all states. Their existence in its labor market is significant as one in ten workers in California is an undocumented immigrant. Its total immigrant population is 3,002,500, according to our estimate.
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