Immigrants are a cornerstone of New Jersey's labor force and economy, comprising 29% of the state's workforce. They fill crucial gaps across industries, from high-skill fields like technology and healthcare to essential service roles in agriculture, hospitality, and manufacturing. This dual representation helps meet labor demands at both ends of the skill spectrum.
In terms of education, 18.6% of New Jersey’s immigrant population holds graduate degrees, compared to 17.2% of U.S.-born residents, demonstrating their significant contributions to high-skill industries. At the same time, immigrant workers are more likely to occupy jobs that do not require a college degree, showcasing their versatility and critical role in foundational sectors.
Immigrants also contribute significantly to state and local revenues. Their households generate $119.8 billion in income, pay $34.6 billion in taxes, and hold $85.2 billion in spending power annually. Beyond taxes, immigrants contribute $10.7 billion to Social Security and $3.0 billion to Medicare, underscoring their essential role in sustaining public services and the broader economy.