DHS data links high deportation rates to rent declines

Data released by the Department of Homeland Security indicates that cities with high rates of immigration enforcement and ICE deportations are experiencing significant declines in rental prices.

Texas, which accounted for approximately one-quarter of ICE arrests in July, reported some of the sharpest rent decreases in the country. Specific declines include San Antonio at 4.8%, Austin at 4.3%, and both Dallas and Houston at approximately 3%. Other cities seeing notable drops include New Orleans at 8%, Nashville at 5.3%, Phoenix at 4.2%, Atlanta at 3.2%, and Miami at 2.6%.

Proponents of these findings suggest that the reduction in the immigrant population decreases competition in the housing market, thereby lowering costs for citizens based on supply and demand principles.