A recent white paper from the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank highlights the substantial effects of illegal immigration during the Biden administration on housing prices, rents, and job growth across the United States. The document indicates that the views presented are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of the Dallas Fed or the broader Federal Reserve System.
Published in March, the research report titled “The Impact of Illegal Immigration on the U.S. Labor and Housing Markets” reveals that the influx of individuals into the U.S. from early 2021 to early 2024 contributed approximately 7 million people to the national population—nearly double the number of legal immigrants during the same period. This surge in illegal immigration accounts for an estimated 30% of total employment growth from March 2021 to March 2024.
The report further indicates that illegal immigration has contributed to a significant rise in housing prices, responsible for about 30% of the overall increase. It also notes that this demographic shift is linked to a 20% rise in rental costs during the same timeframe.
Republican lawmaker Beth Van Dine has drawn attention to the report, sharing it on social media. In an interview with CBS News Texas political reporter Jack Fink, she voiced her concerns about the economic repercussions of illegal immigration. Van Dine stated, “We’ve been emphasizing this issue for months. Sometimes, people overlook the profound impact of a rapid influx of individuals entering the country illegally. The ramifications for our housing market are evident, with prices rising by 30%.”
She continued by outlining the broader implications, noting, “As a direct result of this, rental prices have surged by 20%. Former President Trump has made it clear that his focus must be on deportation, and there’s a valid reason for that—just look at the changes in the housing market. Currently, prices are declining, largely due to over 3.5 million people who have either self-deported or been removed from the country under this administration.”
In response to ongoing concerns, Van Dine, along with other members of Congress, has sent a letter requesting an investigation into allegations of H-1B visa fraud. She reaffirmed her belief that the administration is treating this matter with the seriousness it deserves. “The issues we’re facing, particularly with visa fraud in North Texas, have garnered attention from officials,” she said.
Van Dine emphasized the necessity for proactive measures, stating, “We are adopting a more aggressive and engaged approach with the administration to combat these issues. The presence of phantom visa holders is detrimental, as it creates competition for American workers, often resulting in lower wages. This impacts the availability of jobs for American citizens.”
North Texas Job Fair Returns
Van Dine is set to host the North Texas Job Fair for the fifth consecutive year, scheduled for Thursday, August 6th, at Globe Life Field in Arlington. The previous fair in 2025 attracted over 35,000 attendees, solidifying its status as one of the largest job fairs in the nation.
“This is far from a typical job fair,” Van Dine remarked. “It has evolved into the largest job fair in the country.” She emphasized the event’s comprehensive reach, stating, “We cover virtually every industry, including healthcare, law enforcement, academia, and technology. Opportunities span from entry-level positions to executive roles.”
Entry to the job fair is free for all North Texas residents, with additional information available online.
