Abstract

ALARCON, Rafael  and  RAMIREZ-GARCIA, Telésforo. Economic integration of Mexican immigrants into Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. Pap. poblac [online]. 2011, vol.17, n.69, pp.73-103. ISSN 2448-7147.

Mexican migration to the United States has a century-old history. However, there is currently ample concern about its integration into the U.S. society due to its massive volume and high percentage of undocumented persons. Using data from the 2007 American Community Survey, this article examines the economic integration of Mexican immigrants in the metropolitan region of Los Angeles, through a comparative analysis of the following indicators: education, English proficiency, naturalization, labor market participation and home ownership. The findings reveal that Mexican immigrants have comparatively a disadvantageous integration pattern, however, in spite of this; they are strongly integrated into the Los Angeles economy that has experienced a severe restructuring process, degradation and informality.

Keywords : international migration; integration; assimilation; Los Angeles; Mexico.