report: Immigrants Grow Communities

The Impact of Immigrants and

Immigration IN PENNSYLVANIA

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One of the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvanians in 2024 is the concerning decline in population size, as median age surpasses the national average. Labor shortages are worsening and the cost of living is increasing as a result, leaving residents across the Commonwealth in a state of career and financial uncertainty. Although the decline and its consequences are dire, they also present a unique opportunity for our leaders to take action on meaningful policies that will positively impact all residents. How we address this issue will have ripple effects for generations to come. It is thus imperative that we pursue humane, common sense solutions that will transform the state landscape into a place where all are welcome and valued.

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It has long been the case that immigrants are the economic engine of the nation, in many instances quite literally building up the communities they reside in. This is also true for Pennsylvania, which has significantly benefited from immigration to the state over the last 20 years. As of 2021, there are 45 million foreign-born individuals living in the United States, according to the U.S. Census American Community Survey. In Pennsylvania, the foreign-born

population is on the brink of nearly a million people with a count of 978,000 residents according to 2021 data. Given their indispensable contributions and the state’s current population decline, it is clear that Pennsylvania needs more immigrants.

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