According to the latest Census estimates, the United States has more immigrants than any other country, with over 45 million people, which accounts for 13.6% of the US population. However, the demographics of the immigrant population have changed over the years.
The largest group of immigrants currently living in the US are from Mexico, but the total number of Mexican immigrants has been declining for over a decade. Meanwhile, immigration from other countries, including India and China, has been increasing.
The reasons why people move to the US are diverse, including seeking economic opportunities, fleeing violence, persecution, or climate disasters, and reuniting with family members.
Looking at the top ten countries of origin for immigrants, all are from Latin America and Asia, including both legal and undocumented immigrants. However, most immigrants living in the US are here legally, with an estimated 77% being legal immigrants.
As per the Migration Policy Institute, the majority of immigrants in the United States hail from Mexico. The leading nations of origin are a mix of Latin American and Asian countries.
In terms of numbers, Mexico tops the list with 10.7 million immigrants, followed by India with 2.71 million, and China with 2.38 million.
The demographics of US immigrants have dramatically changed since the 1960s when Italians, Germans, and Canadians were the largest groups.
The new Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 favored highly skilled immigrants and those with family already living in the US, which led to an increase in immigration, especially from non-European countries.
Immigrants are settling in locations beyond the traditional immigrant gateways, and some states, such as California, Texas, Florida, New York, and New Jersey, are home to the largest numbers of immigrants.
Immigrants also tend to move to places with job opportunities, affordable housing, family connections, and immigrant-friendly policies.
Experts predict that immigrants will make up a historically high share of the US population in the coming years, but it is difficult to predict where they will come from due to geopolitical turmoil and divisive immigration debates in Washington.