FORTY PERCENT OF NEW YORK CITY’S POPULATION FOREIGN BORN A recent study based on figures gathered by the US Census Bureau shows that 40 percent of the population of New York City is foreign born, the largest percentage since the early 20th century. Over the last decade, one million foreign born people have moved to the city, increasing the percent of the population that are not born in the US from 28 percent.
These figures are not based on the census conducted every 10 years, but on a sample of over 15,000 households conducted every three years to determine the need for rent regulations. Those who study Census data say the results of such samples are quite accurate, and are generally upheld when the results of the 10 year census are released. The figures are also supported by another Census Bureau study that showed that 54 percent of children in New York City schools were either foreign born or had foreign born parents.
Were it not for the high rate of immigration to New York City, the city’s population would actually be shrinking. Even with one million new immigrants, the city grew by only 130,000 since 1990, to 7.4 million. Were it not for these new arrivals, large sections of the city would be abandoned, and it would not be enjoying the revitalization it currently is.
While other cities have experienced the arrival of large numbers of new immigrants, New York City is unique in that no single group congregates there. Instead there is a mix of people from around the world, making New York one of the most ethnically diverse places in the world. People from more than 150 countries live in the city. < Back | Next > Disclaimer: This newsletter is provided as a public service and not intended to establish an attorney client relationship. Any reliance on information contained herein is taken at your own risk. | 
