New research highlights the significant economic contributions of immigrants in the Akron-Canton region of Ohio, revealing a $5 billion impact on the local GDP.
Ohio, June 18, 2026 – A new report from the American Immigration Council emphasizes the vital role immigrants play in the labor force, housing market, population growth, and overall economy of Ohio. This report, developed in collaboration with Ohio Business for Immigration Solutions and the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance, specifically examines the economic landscape of the Akron-Canton region.
In light of ongoing workforce shortages and the necessity for sustainable talent pipelines, the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance (ACAA) convened regional and national leaders to assess the impact of immigration on the local economy and its potential for future growth. The findings were shared during a discussion that included insights from U.S. Congressman Michael Rulli (OH-6), U.S. Congresswoman Emilia Sykes (OH-13), Patrick Shen of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and representatives from both the American Immigration Council and Ohio Business for Immigration Solutions. This dialogue underscored that immigration is not merely a national issue but a local economic reality, grounded in data and focused on advancing the region’s future.
Juan Avilez, Policy Associate of the State and Local Initiatives team at the American Immigration Council, stated, “The findings of this report demonstrate the value and importance of immigrants’ economic contributions to the Akron and Canton regions of Ohio. In particular, it shows that immigrants are supporting the region in big ways – they contributed $5.0 billion to the region’s GDP and held $1.8 billion in spending power – showing why it’s important their contributions are recognized.”
Madison Lisotto Whalen, Esq., from the Ohio Business for Immigration Solutions Coalition, echoed these sentiments, saying, “The findings out of Akron-Canton confirm what we’re seeing across Ohio: immigrants are essential to the strength of our communities and our economy. Akron-Canton is one story among many.” She highlighted that immigrants are integral to various sectors, from manufacturing to healthcare, helping communities across the state remain vibrant and competitive.
John Rizzo, Vice President of the Akron-Canton Advocacy Alliance, noted the importance of addressing workforce challenges. “Employers consistently tell us their biggest challenge is finding, attracting, and retaining the talent needed to grow,” he said. “This research paints a clear picture of the role immigrant populations play in our economy and informs a more data-driven approach to strengthening our talent pipeline. The ACAA will continue to bring forward data, convene leaders, and advocate for policies that reflect the real needs of our business community and support long-term economic success.”
The report outlines several key findings regarding the contributions of immigrants in the Akron-Canton region:
Immigrants significantly bolster the local economy through taxes and consumer spending. In 2023, immigrant households earned $2.5 billion, contributing $446 million in federal taxes and $227.5 million in state and local taxes. This left them with $1.8 billion in spending power, which is reinvested into local communities, supporting small businesses and maintaining vibrant economic corridors.
Immigrant residents are crucial in meeting labor force demands and will be essential for future workforce needs. In 2023, immigrants were 21.6 percent more likely to be of working age compared to their U.S.-born counterparts, comprising 8.7 percent of workers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. This indicates that immigrants play a significant role in the region’s labor force and technological advancement.
Moreover, immigrants are vital to the preservation of American manufacturing. In 2023, they accounted for 6.0 percent of the manufacturing industry and 5.9 percent of the transportation and warehousing sectors. Their presence helped create or preserve approximately 2,700 manufacturing jobs that would have otherwise been lost or relocated.
Entrepreneurship among immigrants is also noteworthy, with immigrant entrepreneurs being 35.9 percent more likely to start businesses than their U.S.-born counterparts in the Akron-Canton region. In 2023, 3,800 immigrant entrepreneurs generated $166.9 million in business income, showcasing their ability to establish and support new revenue-generating enterprises.
Finally, immigrants are contributing to stabilizing population trends, which is critical for the future growth of the Akron-Canton region. Between 2018 and 2023, while the overall population remained flat, the immigrant population grew by 11.4%, increasing from 52,500 to 58,400 residents. This growth is essential, as it helps maintain population levels and supports community vitality, particularly in the face of demographic challenges faced by many Midwest communities.
For more detailed insights, the full factsheet is available for review.
The report underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting the contributions of immigrants to the Akron-Canton economy, highlighting their role in fostering growth and stability in the region, according to the American Immigration Council.