Story perspectives

U.S. Cities See Population Declines Amid Immigration Policy Changes

3/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Census Bureau reports population declines or slower growth in major metropolitan areas, tied to reduced international migration under U.S. President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City have posted declines, while Austin and Raleigh have grown.
Reports describe harm to American children from immigration enforcement, including cases where U.S. citizens were detained.
The situation raises concerns about the broader implications of immigration enforcement practices.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Immigration Act of 1924, also known as the Johnson–Reed Act, drastically limited immigration, particularly from Eastern and Southern Europe, reducing numbers by over 90%. This legislation, rooted in eugenics and aimed at preserving U.S. homogeneity, shaped immigration policy until 1965. Today, similar restrictive trends are seen under President Trump's policies, raising concerns about demographic shifts in major cities like Los Angeles and Miami.

1 of 2

Story summary

The U.S. Census Bureau reports population declines or slower growth in major metropolitan areas, tied to reduced international migration under U.S. President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City have posted declines, while Austin and Raleigh have grown.
Reports describe harm to American children from immigration enforcement, including cases where U.S. citizens were detained.
The situation raises concerns about the broader implications of immigration enforcement practices.

1 / 2