This graph shows the percentage of households on welfare programs based on the type of household head. For example, it shows that 59% of illegal immigrant households in the U.S. receive benefits from at least one welfare program. This is often because many of these households include at least one U.S.-born child who qualifies for assistance, and in some cases, certain programs also allow illegal immigrants themselves to receive benefits.
The presence of illegal immigrants can have a significant impact on the economy. Large numbers of people living and working outside the legal system place pressure on public resources such as healthcare, education, and housing. It can also reduce job opportunities and lower wages in certain industries, particularly those that rely on low-skilled labor. This does not mean having illegal immigrants is 100% bad. Many work at high rates and pay some taxes including income and payroll taxes. The issue is that lower education levels within this group often lead to lower earnings and smaller overall tax contributions.
Because of this, research has found that illegal immigrants create a net fiscal drain. In other words, they draw more from taxpayer-funded resources than they contribute back into the system.
Source: The Cost of Illegal Immigration to Taxpayers 2024
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