The U.S. Immigrant Population Has Surged: What to Know Ahead of the Election

In an impressive demographic shift, the U.S. immigrant population saw a sharp rise of approximately 1.6 million people in 2023, marking the most substantial single-year growth since 2000, according to Pew Research Center’s examination of U.S. Census Bureau data. This surge brought the total immigrant count to an unprecedented 47.8 million residents, a notable increase from 46.2 million the previous year.

Despite this milestone, the proportion of immigrants in the overall population hasn’t yet surpassed historical highs. Immigrants represented 14.3% of the U.S. population in 2023—a figure that, while substantial, remains below the record of 14.8% set in 1890. The current rate reflects a dramatic rise from 1970, when immigrants made up just 4.7% of the population.

The United States has consistently hosted more immigrants than any other nation, drawing people from a diverse range of countries. As of 2023, Mexico remains the primary country of origin for U.S. immigrants, with 10.9 million residents, accounting for nearly a quarter of the total immigrant population. Following Mexico, India (2.9 million), China (2.4 million), and the Philippines (2.1 million) make up the largest groups.

Legal status reveals the varied pathways immigrants have taken. By 2022, nearly 75% of the U.S. immigrant population consisted of naturalized citizens, permanent residents, or temporary lawful residents. Meanwhile, about 23% of immigrants were in the country without authorization, reflecting the complex legal landscape many newcomers face.

Over recent decades, immigrant demographics have transformed state-by-state. In 1980, immigrants from Germany, Canada, and Mexico held majority representation across multiple states. By 2000, Mexican immigrants became the largest group in 31 states, indicating a shift in immigration patterns within the country.

Legally residing immigrants formed the majority of the U.S. immigrant population in 2022. At that time, 49% were naturalized citizens, 24% were lawful permanent residents, 4% were temporary lawful residents, while 23% of immigrants were unauthorized. The number of unauthorized immigrants tripled between 1990 and 2007, peaking at 12.2 million before decreasing to around 10.2 million by 2019. However, by 2022, this population grew to approximately 11 million, marking the first rise since 2007.

Mexicans still represent the largest portion of unauthorized immigrants, with about 4 million residing in the U.S. in 2022. Although this figure has declined from a peak of nearly 7 million in 2007, it still represents more than a third of all unauthorized immigrants. A decrease in the Mexican unauthorized immigrant population has been offset by growing numbers from Asia and other parts of Latin America. As recent data implies, the upward trend in unauthorized immigration is expected to continue.