US’ foreign-born, immigrant populations reach record highs: report

The United States has reached a historical milestone in immigration, with the foreign-born population hitting a record high of 53.3 million as of January 2025. This figure, which accounts for 15.8% of the total U.S. population, surpasses previous peaks in 1890 and 1910, according to a report from the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS). The Current Population Survey (CPS) data highlights significant growth, particularly under President Biden’s administration, where the foreign-born population increased by 8.3 million from 2021 to 2025. Notably, illegal immigrants are estimated to account for nearly two-thirds of this growth, raising concerns about the nation’s capacity to integrate these newcomers effectively.

The demographic composition of this immigration wave is diverse, with 58% of the increase originating from Latin America, followed by India contributing 12%, the Middle East 8%, and China 7%. This diversity reflects the dynamic nature of global migration trends, with varied regions contributing to therich cultural tapestry of the U.S. population. The report emphasizes the unprecedented scale, noting that this growth outpaces the previous 12 years combined, underscoring the remarkable shift in immigration patterns over recent years.

Economically, immigrants play a crucial role, with 60% of the foreign-born population employed. As of January 2025, 31.7 million immigrant workers constitute nearly 20% of the U.S. workforce. This significant contribution highlights the integral role immigrants play in sustaining and growing various economic sectors. Their participation not only fuels labor markets but also influences the vibrancy of communities across the nation.

A comparative analysis of immigration growth under different administrations reveals notable trends. Under President Obama, the foreign-born population grew by 2.9 million and 3.4 million in his first and second terms, respectively. During President Trump’s term, growth was lower at 1.6 million, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast, the Biden administration saw an unprecedented increase of 8.3 million, marking a significant shift in immigration patterns.

Concerns about integration and societal impact are central to the CIS report. The substantial increase in foreign-born residents raises questions about the nation’s ability to assimilate and integrate such a large population effectively. Issues such as access to education, public resources, housing, and labor markets are pivotal, as they directly impact the quality of life for both immigrants and native-born citizens. The report emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies to address these challenges.

Policy responses to immigration vary, as evidenced by California’s approval of $2 million to protect and provide legal services to illegal immigrants. This initiative reflects a broader debate on immigration policies, particularly in the context of previous administrations’ approaches, such as President Trump’s enforcement efforts. Such policies highlight the ongoing struggle to balance Compassion and enforcement in managing immigration.