Illegal immigrants in the Mid-Atlantic states (Maryland and Virginia) are different from illegals in other states — they tend to be better educated, they make more money, and they’re less likely to have slipped across the border illegally, maintains the Center for Immigration Studies. Summarizes the Washington Post:
The average household income for illegal immigrants is $45,748 nationally. In Maryland, it’s $58,061; in Virginia, $61,112. The findings may reflect the greater overall wealth of the two states: The average household income for native residents is $83,964 in Maryland and $79,524 in Virginia, compared with $66,952 nationwide.
The study suggests that a greater share of illegal immigrants in the Washington region are people who overstayed their entry visas rather than sneaked across the border, says Steven A. Camarota, who wrote the report. “People who overstay are more likely to be foreign students and guest workers who are more educated. People who cross the border illegally tend to be the least educated.”
That conforms with my personal experience. Some of the immigrants that I know personally entered the country legally, overstayed their visas illegally and melted into the population. Some have since obtained green cards. One married a U.S. citizen, thus becoming a U.S. citizen herself. Of course, the individuals I know best are of Brazilian or Caribbean origin. It’s difficult to “sneak across the border” when you arrive by airplane.
You can view the study here.