Census Bureau Reports Negative Net Migration as DHS Says Nearly 3 Million Illegal Immigrants Have Left U.S.

The U.S. Census Bureau has reported negative net migration for the first time in decades, a shift federal officials say reflects a sharp increase in immigration enforcement and deportations under the Trump administration.

According to newly released Census Bureau data, more people left the United States than entered during the most recent reporting period, contributing to slower overall population growth. The findings mark a major reversal from long-standing trends in which immigration consistently drove population gains, particularly in large urban areas and border states.

The Department of Homeland Security attributed the decline in net migration to stepped-up border security and interior enforcement, saying nearly 3 million illegal immigrants have been deported or voluntarily departed since expanded enforcement measures were put in place. DHS officials argued the numbers demonstrate the effectiveness of tougher immigration policies aimed at restoring control at the southern border.

Administration officials said increased removals, stricter asylum standards, and faster processing of immigration cases have discouraged illegal crossings and reduced the number of migrants remaining in the country unlawfully. DHS also pointed to cooperation with foreign governments and expanded repatriation flights as key factors behind the drop.

Critics, however, questioned whether deportations alone explain the shift. Immigration advocates argued that economic uncertainty, rising housing costs, and global instability may also be influencing migration patterns. Some warned that declining immigration could have long-term consequences for the U.S. labor force, particularly in industries that rely heavily on immigrant workers.

Demographers noted that negative net migration could accelerate population declines in certain states and cities already experiencing slow growth, potentially affecting congressional representation, federal funding formulas, and economic output.

The Census Bureau said it will continue monitoring migration trends closely as updated data becomes available. DHS officials, meanwhile, framed the report as validation of the administration’s approach, saying enforcement efforts will remain in place as the government seeks to deter illegal entry and encourage lawful immigration pathways.

The findings are expected to fuel renewed political debate over immigration policy, border security, and the broader economic impact of reduced migration in the United States.