Experts Uncover Surprising Fiscal Trends in Illegal Immigration History

Border patrol agents near vehicles on embankment daytime

Illegal immigration costs U.S. taxpayers a staggering $150.7 billion annually, sparking debates on fiscal responsibility and border control.

At a Glance

Illegal immigration cost U.S. taxpayers $150.7 billion in 2023
Each illegal immigrant or their U.S.-born child costs $8,776 annually
The cost of illegal immigration exceeds the GDP of several U.S. states
Over 3.3 million illegal immigrants have been released into the U.S. since 2021
Tax payments by illegal aliens cover only about one-sixth of the costs they generate

The Rising Fiscal Burden of Illegal Immigration

The financial impact of illegal immigration on U.S. taxpayers has reached unprecedented levels, according to recent data from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). In 2023 alone, the cost to American taxpayers soared to $150.7 billion, a figure that has caught the attention of policymakers and citizens alike. This substantial sum represents a net cost after accounting for an estimated $32 billion in taxes contributed by illegal immigrants.

The scale of this fiscal burden becomes even more apparent when broken down to individual costs. Each illegal immigrant or their U.S.-born child costs the nation $8,776 annually. For the average American taxpayer, this translates to an additional $957 per year after accounting for taxes paid by illegal aliens. These figures underscore the significant strain placed on public resources and the economy at large.

Illegal Immigration costs U.S. taxpayers over $150.7 billion every year.

Does this put America First?

— America (@america) October 9, 2024

The Scale of the Issue

To put the $150.7 billion cost into perspective, it exceeds the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of several U.S. states, including Mississippi and New Mexico. This comparison starkly illustrates the magnitude of the financial resources being directed towards addressing illegal immigration rather than other potential national priorities.

“FAIR believes that every concerned American citizen should be asking our government why, in a time of increasing costs and shrinking resources, it is spending such large amounts of money on individuals who are not authorized to be in the United States.” – FAIR

The issue has been exacerbated by recent policy changes. Since President Biden’s inauguration, over 3.3 million illegal immigrants have been released into the U.S., significantly contributing to the growing fiscal challenge. Moreover, the presence of over 617,607 non-detained aliens with criminal records in U.S. communities raises additional concerns about public safety and associated costs.

Federal and State Expenditures

The financial burden of illegal immigration is not borne equally across all levels of government. Federal expenditures on illegal aliens total approximately $66.4 billion, marking a 45% increase since 2017. At the state and local levels, the fiscal burden has reached $115.6 billion, a 30% rise over the same period. These figures highlight the disproportionate impact on local communities and state budgets.

“The incoming Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is taking aim at the burden illegal immigration places on U.S. taxpayers.” – DOGE

While illegal aliens contribute an estimated $15.2 billion in state and local taxes, this amount falls significantly short of covering the costs incurred. The total national expenditures on illegal immigration stand at $182 billion, with total tax contributions from this population at $31.4 billion, leaving a substantial deficit that must be covered by American taxpayers.

Policy Implications and Debates

The fiscal impact of illegal immigration has become a focal point in policy debates, with criticisms aimed at the current administration’s approach to border control and interior enforcement. Some argue that the dismantling of interior immigration enforcement has increased taxpayer costs by allowing more illegal aliens to remain in the country.

Tensions between state and federal authorities have also escalated, as exemplified by Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s initiation of Operation Lone Star to enforce border security. This operation has resulted in significant migrant apprehensions and drug seizures but has also led to legal disputes and tragic incidents, underscoring the complex challenges associated with addressing illegal immigration.

As the debate continues, the incoming Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has signaled its intent to focus on this pressing issue, highlighting the need for comprehensive solutions that address both the fiscal and societal impacts of illegal immigration. The substantial costs associated with this issue underscore the urgency for effective policy measures to manage immigration while safeguarding the interests of American taxpayers.