Fact Check: "Immigrants make up approximately 13.7% of the U.S. population."
What We Know
The claim that immigrants make up approximately 13.7% of the U.S. population is rooted in historical data and recent estimates. According to the Pew Research Center, as of 2023, the foreign-born population in the United States reached approximately 47.8 million, which accounts for about 14.3% of the total U.S. population. This figure represents a significant increase from earlier years, where in 2018, the immigrant population was reported to be 44.8 million, or 13.7% of the U.S. population at that time (source-2).
The U.S. Census Bureau has indicated that the immigrant population has been underrepresented in previous estimates, with new data suggesting that the actual numbers are higher than previously reported (source-3). This discrepancy is particularly relevant for the years 2022 and 2023, where the Census Bureau noted that the population was underestimated by nearly 2 million people, primarily immigrants (source-3).
Analysis
While the claim is based on accurate data, it is important to note the context and timing of the statistics. The figure of 13.7% is accurate as of 2018, but more recent estimates indicate that the percentage has risen to 14.3% in 2023 (source-1). This increase reflects ongoing trends in immigration and population growth, particularly following changes in immigration laws and policies since 1965.
The reliability of the sources used in this analysis is strong, as both the Pew Research Center and the U.S. Census Bureau are reputable organizations known for their rigorous data collection and analysis methods. However, it is crucial to recognize that the statistics can fluctuate based on new data releases and adjustments in methodology. For instance, the Census Bureau's adjustments for 2022 and 2023 indicate that previous estimates may not fully capture the immigrant population's growth (source-3).
While the claim is grounded in factual data, it is essential to clarify that the percentage of immigrants in the U.S. population is not static and has been subject to change based on various factors, including immigration policy and demographic trends.
Conclusion
The claim that "immigrants make up approximately 13.7% of the U.S. population" is Partially True. While this figure accurately reflects the immigrant population percentage in 2018, more recent estimates indicate that the percentage has increased to about 14.3% in 2023. Thus, the claim is somewhat outdated but still relevant in illustrating the significant role of immigrants in the U.S. population.
