Immigrating into a Recession: Evidence from Family Migrants to the United States

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Labor Economics
Year: 2025
Volume: 43
Issue: 3
Pages: 843 - 883

Score contribution per author:

1.341 = (α=2.01 / 3 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We analyze the impact of economic conditions at arrival on the economic integration of family-sponsored migrants in the United States. A 1 percentage point higher unemployment rate at arrival decreases annual wage income by 4% in the short run and 2% in the longer run. The loss in wage income results primarily from lower hourly wages due to occupational downgrading. Migrant and family networks help mitigate the negative labor market effects. Migrants who arrive during a recession take up occupations with higher concentrations of fellow countrypeople and are more likely to reside with family members, potentially reducing their geographical mobility.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:ucp:jlabec:doi:10.1086/730121
Journal Field
Labor
Author Count
3
Added to Database
2026-01-26