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The ongoing migrant influx, driven by various policies and geopolitical issues, is having a notable impact on New Jersey’s real estate market and public resources. New Jersey, a sanctuary state, faces a growing number of undocumented immigrants, many of whom arrive via buses sent from border states like Texas. This influx has created new challenges in terms of housing, utilities and community costs.

Housing costs and scarcity

New Jersey’s housing market was already struggling with supply issues, and the migrant crisis has only exacerbated those challenges. As migrants seek shelter, demand for affordable rental housing has increased, putting pressure on housing availability. This increased demand, combined with an existing housing shortage, is driving up rents and property prices, making it even more difficult for low-income families and first-time buyers to access housing.

Experts note that many of these migrants initially intended to go to New York but chose to settle in New Jersey, straining the state’s resources.

Population and economic impact

Since 2021, the number of illegal migrants in the state has increased. Recent estimates suggest that New Jersey now hosts tens of thousands of undocumented migrants, perhaps as many as 100,000.

Nationally, the unauthorized population increased by millions under the Biden administration. New Jersey is one of the top destinations due to its proximity to New York and its more lenient policies.

Public costs and education

The financial burden on public services is significant. The cost of housing undocumented immigrants in various services such as education, health care and corrections in states like Pennsylvania is estimated to run into the billions per year. New Jersey faces similar budget pressures.

School districts are particularly hard hit, with additional costs incurred to educate the children of undocumented immigrants. The federal government provides some assistance, but states like New Jersey are asking for additional funds to cover growing expenses. One analysis estimates that the national cost of raising children of illegal immigrants exceeds $60 billion a year.

Crime rates and public safety

Although crime statistics are complex, some public officials have raised concerns about strains on local law enforcement due to rising migrant populations.

This does not mean that migrants commit crimes at a higher rate, but managing larger populations in densely populated areas always poses new challenges for local police. However, definitive data directly linking migrants to increased crime remains inconclusive and highly controversial.

The underlying principle here is that if the criminal elements of the illegal immigrant population were either properly controlled at the border or held accountable for their crimes and removed from the country, there would be little or no “migrant crime.”

Free lunch programs and public benefits

Another impact has been on social protection programs. New Jersey schools have faced additional demands to provide free or subsidized meals to a growing number of students from low-income migrant families. This has put additional pressure on state budgets, particularly in school districts with limited funding. State government, led by Governor Murphy, is pushing for additional federal funding to support these programs amid rising enrollment.

In summary, the continued influx of migrants influences many facets of life in New Jersey. Housing costs are rising, public services like education and policing are under greater pressure, and debates over financial responsibilities continue. As this crisis evolves, state leaders are demanding more federal support to manage the growing population and its impact on communities.

Top New Jersey Immigration Lawyers Can Help Migrants Protect Their Rights

New Jersey is home to several immigration attorneys known for their expertise and successful experience handling complex immigration cases. Among the top five is Wildes & Weinberg, a firm led by Michael Wildes, frequently sought out for high-profile and corporate immigration cases.

Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy LLP, with its strong team, handles a wide range of business immigration and compliance matters. The Gursoy Immigration Law Firm, led by attorney Michael Gursoy, is recognized for its work in deportation defense and family-based immigration. Harlan York & Associates, under the leadership of Harlan York, specializes in handling difficult deportation and criminal immigration cases. Finally, the Nachman Phulwani Zimovcak (NPZ) Law Group, co-led by David Nachman, provides comprehensive legal services on employment-based and family-based immigration matters. These attorneys and firms are renowned for their in-depth knowledge of evolving immigration laws and their commitment to guiding their clients through the legal complexities of the U.S. immigration system.