California saw 154,900 new citizens become naturalized in fiscal year 2023, bringing the state’s total of naturalized citizens to more than 500,000 over the past three years. Approximately 878,500 individuals became citizens this past fiscal year, with California being the only state to surpass six digits in terms of new naturalized citizens. Mexico accounted for the largest number of new citizens, followed by India, the Philippines, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba. Immigration in California draws less attention due to residents’ familiarity with the southern border and the issue of people settling in the state, which has been a significant part of its history and politics for decades.
The cost of living remains a crucial issue for many Californians, with familiarity with immigration-related issues playing a role in drivers of domestic migration. Despite a slight decrease in the number of new naturalized citizens compared to previous years, California remains home to over 10 million legal immigrants, representing about 23 percent of the national foreign-born population. The state continues to see a population boom while attempting to address rising levels of illegal immigration. The Biden administration recently allocated $45 million to California to be used for migrant-related programs statewide, with additional funding provided to cities like San Diego that have experienced higher levels of illegal entries.
As of January 2024, California is home to a significant immigrant population, with 27 percent of the state’s population being foreign-born—the highest of any state in the nation. The state is also home to a large number of immigrant workers, with around one in three statewide workers being immigrants. Governor Gavin Newsom has rejected the notion that “sanctuary city” status is to blame for rising numbers, emphasizing that President Biden is working to fund border security and humanitarian efforts while some Republicans in Congress are opting for border chaos for political gain.
Experts suggest that the high number of naturalized citizens in California could have implications for the state and the nation overall, especially in the upcoming presidential election where these new citizens will be able to vote for the first time. While Democrats and Republicans take partisan cues on the issue of immigration, the state’s history and familiarity with the issue may influence how residents and policymakers approach the topic. California’s naturalization rate in recent years has represented a significant portion of the total across the country, with the state playing a crucial role in shaping national immigration policies and discourse.
Overall, California remains a key player in immigration and naturalization trends, with a large and diverse immigrant population contributing to the state’s economic and social fabric. As the state continues to grapple with issues related to immigration, both legal and illegal, policymakers and residents are navigating complex challenges while striving to maintain California’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive state. The influx of new citizens in recent years underscores the state’s commitment to diversity and opportunity, while also highlighting the ongoing debates and tensions surrounding immigration policies and enforcement.
