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The rapid increase in immigration, driven by a variety of policy and geopolitical issues, is having a significant impact on New Jersey’s housing market and public resources. As a sanctuary state, New Jersey is facing an increase in illegal immigrants, many of whom arrive on buses sent from border states such as Texas. This influx is creating new challenges in terms of housing, public services and community costs.
Housing costs and shortages
New Jersey’s housing market was already suffering from supply issues, and the immigration crisis has exacerbated these challenges. Demand for affordable rental housing has soared as migrants seek shelter, putting pressure on housing availability. This increased demand and the existing housing shortage are driving up rents and property prices, making it more difficult for low-income households and first-time homebuyers to secure housing.
Experts say many of these immigrants originally intended to head to New York City but have chosen to settle in New Jersey, further straining state coffers.
Population and economic effects
Since 2021, the number of illegal immigrants in the state has increased. New Jersey currently hosts tens of thousands of undocumented immigrants, perhaps as many as 100,000, according to recent estimates.
Nationally, the undocumented population has increased by millions under the Biden administration. New Jersey ranks among the top destinations due to its proximity to New York and more generous policies.
public costs and education
The financial burden on public services is significant. For states like Pennsylvania, the cost of housing undocumented immigrants through a variety of services, including education, health care, and corrections, is estimated to run into the billions of dollars annually. New Jersey faces similar fiscal pressures.
School districts are particularly affected, facing additional costs in educating the children of undocumented immigrants. The federal government is providing some aid, but states like New Jersey are seeking additional funding to cover rising costs. One analysis estimates that educating the children of illegal immigrants costs the nation more than $60 billion annually.
Crime rate and public safety
Crime statistics are mixed, but some public officials have expressed concern about the strain on local law enforcement from a growing immigrant population.
This does not mean that immigrants have higher crime rates, but managing larger populations in densely populated areas always poses new challenges for local police. However, conclusive data directly linking immigration to increased crime remains inconclusive and highly debated.
The underlying rationale here is that if illegal immigrant criminals are properly inspected at the border, held accountable for their crimes, and removed from the country, there is little or no “immigration crime.” That means no.
Free lunch program and public benefits
Another impact is on public welfare programs. New Jersey schools face additional demands to provide free or subsidized meals to a growing number of students from low-income immigrant families. This puts additional pressure on state budgets, especially for school districts with limited resources. The state government, led by Governor Murphy, is seeking additional federal funding to support these programs as enrollment increases.
In summary, the ongoing influx of immigrants is impacting many aspects of life in New Jersey. Housing costs are rising, public services such as education and police are under further strain, and debates over fiscal responsibility continue. As the crisis evolves, state leaders are calling for more federal aid to manage the growing population and its impact on local communities.
New Jersey’s Top Immigration Lawyers Help Protect Immigrant Rights
New Jersey is home to several leading immigration attorneys who are known for their expertise and successful track record in resolving complex immigration cases. The top five companies include Wiles & Weinberg, a firm led by Michael Wiles, who is frequently investigated in high-profile corporate immigration cases.
With its strong team, Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy LLP handles a wide range of business immigration and compliance matters. The Garsoy Immigration Law Firm, headed by attorney Michael Garsoy, is recognized for its deportation defense and family-based immigration efforts. Harlan York & Associates, under the direction of Harlan York, specializes in handling difficult deportation and criminal immigration cases. Finally, Nachman Purwani Zhimovczak (NPZ) Law Group, co-chaired by David Nachman, provides comprehensive legal services across employment-based and family immigration matters. These attorneys and firms are known for their in-depth knowledge of evolving immigration law and their commitment to guiding clients through the legal complexities of the U.S. immigration system.
