America’s workforce is a tapestry woven from countless cultures, languages, and backgrounds. Today, immigrants make up nearly 20% of all U.S. workers—that’s over 31 million people contributing their skills, perspectives, and drive to the economy. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a story of resilience, innovation, and shared prosperity.
Recent data shows that immigrant workers are more likely to be employed than their native-born counterparts, with an unemployment rate of just 3.4% in 2024. They play essential roles in industries like healthcare, construction, and hospitality, often filling critical gaps as the U.S. faces an aging workforce and shifting demographics. In fact, without ongoing immigration, the U.S. working-age population would be shrinking, and economic growth would slow even further.
But the story goes deeper than numbers. Immigrants and their children are projected to add about 18 million people of working age between 2015 and 2035, offsetting the decline from retiring Baby Boomers. And while educational attainment varies—immigrants from some regions are less likely to have completed high school, others are more likely to hold advanced degrees—the overall impact is clear: diversity is driving America’s economic engine.
This diversity is a strength, not a challenge. Companies that embrace it are better positioned to innovate, compete globally, and build workplaces where everyone can thrive. If you’re interested in learning more about how immigration and ethnic diversity shape your organization, check out our previous blogs on building inclusive teams and the future of work.
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