Migrants Cost Taxpayers How Much?

A recent study by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) has highlighted the significant financial burden that illegal immigration places on American taxpayers. According to the report, taxpayers have shelled out an astounding $150 billion annually on services and support for approximately 20 million illegal immigrants in the United States. This expenditure predominantly impacts state and local governments.

The financial strain has markedly increased since 2017 when the cost was approximately $116 billion. Over the past five years, this figure has surged by $35 billion, a trend that FAIR spokesperson Ira Mehlman attributes directly to the rising number of individuals entering the country unlawfully. “It’s a matter of straightforward logic,” Mehlman explains. “If we continue to allow millions of people to enter the country illegally each year, the costs will inevitably keep rising. Many of these individuals work off the books for low wages, which results in substantial social costs.”

FAIR’s study reveals that while the total spending on services reached $182 billion, the tax contributions from illegal immigrants amounted to only about $32 billion, leaving a net cost of $150 billion. Mehlman argues that claims suggesting illegal immigrants contribute more in taxes than they consume in services are misleading.

States are feeling the financial pinch acutely. In Massachusetts, GOP leaders are attributing a $1 billion budget shortfall to the costs associated with illegal immigration, accusing the Democrat-controlled administration of hiding expenses related to the migrant crisis. Massachusetts Republicans have called for transparency, demanding the release of the full budget related to migrants.

In New York, the situation is similarly dire. The state’s comptroller estimates that the migrant crisis will cost taxpayers $4.3 billion through 2025, with New York City alone facing a $3 billion bill for fiscal year 2024. FAIR’s estimate for New York is even higher, pegging the cost at $10 billion for 2023. These figures encompass all state services utilized by illegal immigrants and their children, unlike many state reports which often focus solely on emergency housing and aid.

The financial impact extends beyond the largest states. Even smaller states like West Virginia, which spent over $33 million, are affected. While just seven states reported spending less than $100 million on migrant services, 19 states saw costs exceed $1 billion. California leads with the highest expenditure at $31 billion, followed by Texas at $13 billion, Florida at $8 billion, and New Jersey and New York with significant costs as well.

The FAIR report underscores a pressing issue: the growing financial burden of illegal immigration is being felt across the nation, and it is imperative for policymakers to address these escalating costs with practical solutions.