North Carolina immigrants contribute billions in taxes and drive economic growth

In a recent government meeting in North Carolina, the economic impact of immigrants in the state took center stage, revealing a complex and vital contribution to the local economy. As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that immigrants, who make up 8.3 percent of North Carolina's population, play a crucial role in various sectors, from construction to agriculture.

With 871,765 immigrants residing in North Carolina, a significant portion—34.7 percent—are undocumented. Despite their status, these individuals contribute immensely to the state's economy. Each year, immigrants pay approximately $8.4 billion in taxes, with $2.8 billion allocated to state and local taxes. Notably, undocumented immigrants alone contribute around $772.5 million in taxes, including $310.9 million in state and local taxes. This financial input underscores the argument that their economic contributions far exceed the costs of public services they utilize.

The meeting also highlighted the impressive spending power of immigrants, estimated at $25 billion, with undocumented immigrants accounting for $6.4 billion of that total. This spending power is reflected in the housing market, where immigrant households hold a combined housing wealth of $7.3 billion and pay $1.8 billion in rent annually.

Entrepreneurship among immigrants was another key point of discussion. The meeting revealed that 67,453 immigrants are business owners in North Carolina, generating $1.5 billion in profits each year. Among these entrepreneurs, 21,553 are undocumented, showcasing their significant role in driving economic growth.

In terms of workforce participation, immigrants represent 10.9 percent of North Carolina's labor force, with undocumented workers making up 3.7 percent. They are particularly prominent in sectors such as construction, where 29 percent of workers are immigrants, and agriculture, which employs 23.3 percent of immigrant labor.

As the meeting concluded, it was evident that immigrants are not just a part of North Carolina's demographic landscape; they are integral to its economic vitality. Their contributions, both in taxes and workforce participation, highlight the importance of recognizing and supporting this community as a vital component of the state's future prosperity.