US Foreign-Born Population Grows Older And More Educated

A recent report released by the U.S. Census Bureau reveals significant trends in the foreign-born population residing in the United States. The data, gathered from the American Community Survey, indicates that in 2022, the foreign-born population in the U.S. reached an estimated 46.2 million people, accounting for nearly 14% of the total population.

California, Texas, Florida, and New York emerged as the states with the highest concentration of foreign-born individuals, collectively hosting more than half of this demographic group. Notably, the report highlights a shift in the age and educational profile of the foreign-born population over the past twelve years.

One key finding is the aging of the foreign-born population, with the median age increasing by five years to 46.7 years. This trend reflects the longevity of many foreign-born residents in the U.S. Additionally, the report shows a rise in educational attainment among this group, with three-quarters of foreign-born individuals now holding at least a high school degree.

The composition of the foreign-born population has also evolved, with notable changes in the regions of origin. While individuals from Latin America continue to represent a significant portion, there has been a decline in the number of Mexican-born residents, offset by increases in individuals from South America and Central America. The share of Asian-born residents has slightly decreased, while the proportion of African-born individuals has seen a modest rise.

Furthermore, the report sheds light on the naturalization status of foreign-born individuals, revealing that over half are now naturalized citizens. European-born and Asian-born individuals lead in naturalization rates, with approximately two-thirds of each group having obtained citizenship.

As immigration remains a prominent issue in the political landscape, the report underscores the complex dynamics surrounding migration and citizenship in the U.S. The data provided by the Census Bureau offers valuable insights into the demographic shifts and characteristics of the foreign-born population, informing ongoing discussions and policy considerations on immigration.