Who are America's illegal aliens?

Who are the unauthorized immigrants in the United States? Where do they come from and where do they settle in the United States? After entry, what socio-economic roles do they play in the US economy?

As of 2008, the unauthorized immigrant population in the United States is estimated to be approximately 11.6 million. 61% of the unauthorized immigrants in the country are from Mexico, and 25% of all unauthorized immigrant workers reside in California. Unauthorized immigrants, as of 2008, represent 5% of the total civilian labor force in the United States. 51% of these immigrants, compared to 21% of native workers, hold occupations in the service (30%) and construction (21%) industries. The following charts and tables delineate the demographic and socio-economic background of unauthorized immigrants in the United States.