Michigan, like many states, is at the center of the national conversation on immigration. While the state overall has a relatively modest unauthorized immigrant population, certain counties stand out for their higher concentrations. Recent data and policy debates have brought renewed attention to the impact and distribution of unauthorized immigrants across Michigan’s counties.
Which County Leads Michigan in Unauthorized Immigrant Population?
According to the Migration Policy Institute and other recent reports, Michigan’s total unauthorized immigrant population was estimated at 65,000 in 2022, making up about 1% of the state’s population. While comprehensive county-level data for 2025 is limited, previous analyses and available datasets consistently identify Wayne County—home to Detroit—as the Michigan county with the largest unauthorized immigrant population.
Wayne County’s status as the state’s most populous and economically significant region, coupled with its role as a hub for new arrivals, makes it the focal point for both legal and unauthorized immigration in Michigan.
Latest Statistics and Trends
Statewide Numbers: Michigan’s unauthorized immigrant population stood at approximately 65,000 in 2022.
Wayne County: Historically, Wayne County has accounted for the largest share of Michigan’s unauthorized immigrants, followed by Oakland, Kent, and Macomb counties.
Economic Impact: Immigrants—regardless of status—contribute significantly to Michigan’s economy, holding over $23.1 billion in spending power and paying $8.1 billion in combined federal, state, and local taxes in 2022.
Crime and Public Safety: Data shows immigrants, including unauthorized immigrants, are less likely to commit crimes than native-born residents.
Policy Costs: The estimated cost to Michigan taxpayers for services provided to unauthorized immigrants and their children was $1.1 billion in 2023, with the largest expenditures in education, law enforcement, and healthcare.
Why Wayne County?
Several factors contribute to Wayne County’s status as Michigan’s “illegal immigrants’ capital”:
Population Density: As Michigan’s most populous county and home to Detroit, Wayne County attracts more immigrants overall.
Economic Opportunities: The county’s diverse economy and labor market offer employment opportunities that draw new arrivals.
Established Communities: Existing immigrant networks make Wayne County a logical destination for newcomers, including those without legal status.
Recent Policy Debates and Proposals
Wire Transfer Fee Proposal: To address the costs associated with unauthorized immigration, some policymakers have proposed a fee on international wire transfers, aiming to recoup lost tax revenue and fund law enforcement.
Population Growth Strategy: State leaders and economic councils emphasize the importance of immigration—including legal and unauthorized—in reversing Michigan’s population decline and boosting economic growth.
Conclusion
Wayne County remains Michigan’s epicenter for unauthorized immigration, reflecting broader trends in population movement, economic opportunity, and community networks. While the challenges and costs associated with unauthorized immigration are real, immigrants of all statuses continue to play a vital role in Michigan’s economy and society. As the debate continues, policymakers face the task of balancing enforcement, economic needs, and the state’s future growth.
Source:
[1] https://www.migrationpolicy.org/data/unauthorized-immigrant-population/state/MI
[2] https://www.americafirstpolicy.com/issues/combating-the-impacts-of-illegal-immigration-in-michigan
[3] https://www.migrationpolicy.org/programs/us-immigration-policy-program-data-hub/unauthorized-immigrant-population-profiles
[4] https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/press-release/new-report-shows-immigrants-michigan-paid-over-81-taxes-and-held-231-billion-spending-power/
[5] https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/cbp-releases-may-2025-monthly-update
[6] https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/trump-michigan-what-data-says-about-illegal-immigration-crime-and-economy
[7] https://www.ice.gov/statistics
[8] https://mlpp.org/immigrants-in-michigan-by-county/