DiNapoli Report Shows New York Is Home To 4.4 Million Immigrants

New York State is home to 4.4 million immigrants, second only to California.

That's according to a new report released by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.

DiNapoli was in Utica on Wednesday to discuss the report, which shows New York ranks third as a harbor for refugees, behind only Texas and California.

“Immigrants are nearly a quarter of our population. While the vast majority live in New York City, many are reshaping our suburban and upstate communities and helping revive our main streets,” DiNapoli said. “Our report found that most immigrants in New York are well-educated and actively participate in the workforce. Their rich diversity of cultures and experiences help make our state strong.”

The report found that among upstate cities, Utica has the highest proportion of immigrants, at just over 18 percent of its total population.

“Utica has a rich history, going back decades, as a melting pot; welcoming immigrants from all over the world,” Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri said.  “As Mayor, I take great pride in Utica’s track record in how we treat and assimilate immigrants as they have made tremendous contributions to our economy and community.”

In the Mohawk Valley, Europeans make up the largest share of immigrants, at 40 percent, with nearly two-thirds of them from Eastern Europe, predominantly Bosnia and Herzegovina;

You can read the full report on the Comptroller's website.