New research from New American Economy underscores the critical role immigrants in San Mateo County play in the community’s labor force, STEM innovation, and economic vitality. The new report, New Americans in San Mateo County, was prepared in partnership with the San Mateo County Office of Immigrant Services.

The report also features profiles of four San Mateo County residents: Althea Barillo de Guzman, Edith Arias, Marilu Bedolla-Jaimes, and Marian Lee.

Key Findings

• Immigrants and refugees are helping San Mateo County meet its labor force needs. As of 2019, immigrants and refugees made up 35.2 percent of the County’s overall population with 78.2 percent of working age, as compared to 59 percent of the U.S.-born population, making immigrants 32.6 percent more likely to be of working age than their U.S.-born counterparts.
• Immigrants and refugees are helping the region meet its rising labor needs in STEM and essential industries. Despite making up 35.2 percent of the overall population, immigrants accounted for 47.6 percent of the region’s STEM workers, 56.1 percent of transportation and warehousing workers, and 47.1 percent of healthcare workers – all critical industries that have been essential during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Immigrants in the region are making substantial economic contributions. In 2019, immigrants contributed $53.8 billion to San Mateo County’s GDP, or 40 percent of the total, despite making up just 35.2 percent of the population.

The report was produced as part of NAE’s and Welcoming America’s Gateways for Growth Challenge, which includes tailored research on the local immigrant population and technical assistance in the creation of a multi-sector strategic immigrant integration plan.

Read the full press release here.