An Analysis of Texas Migration Patterns and Economic Impact Implications

Lila Valencia, University of Texas at San Antonio
Miguel Flores, University of Texas at San Antonio
Nazrul Hoque, University of Texas at San Antonio

Texas long has been characterized by its rapid growth. It is the second fastest growing states in the United States, especially when considering its large population. An important component of this prevailing population is net migration gains (number of individuals moving into minus individuals moving out of the state). This study examines domestic and international migration trends to Texas from 2000 to 2009 using two data sources: 1) the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey and 2) individual income tax returns filed with the Internal Revenue Service. The objectives of this study include: 1) assessing comparability in the estimation of gross and net migration flows between these data sources, 2) providing estimates of the demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of migrants coming to Texas, and 3) discussing potential economic impact implications.