Economic Fast Facts About Caribbean Immigrants in the US This Caribbean American Heritage Month
As we celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month, it's essential to recognize the significant contributions Caribbean immigrants have made to the United States, dating back to the era of slavery. Here are some key economic facts about the self-employed Caribbean population in the US:
Self-Employment Among Caribbean Immigrants
Cubans lead the way in self-employment among Caribbean immigrants, according to US Census data.
They are followed by nationals from the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.
Trinidad and Tobago nationals rank fourth, with Haitians coming in fifth.
Barbadians are the least likely to be self-employed.
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Median Income
Barbadians have the highest median income at over $72,000.
They are followed by Trinidad and Tobagonians with over $71,000 and Jamaicans with over $65,000.
Cubans have a median income of over $60,000, ranking fourth.
Haitians also report a median income of $60,000.
Puerto Ricans have a median income of over $53,000, while those from the Dominican Republic rank seventh with $51,000.
Homeownership
Cubans lead in homeownership, with over 56% owning a home.
Trinidad and Tobagonians and Jamaicans follow closely with 50.8% and 50.7%, respectively.
Just over 46% of Barbadians own their homes, while Haitians have a homeownership rate of just over 45%.
Puerto Ricans have a homeownership rate of 43%, and those from the Dominican Republic have the lowest rate at 31%.
Educational Attainment
Barbadians are the most likely to hold a bachelor's degree among Caribbean immigrants, followed by Trinidad and Tobagonians and Jamaicans.
Cubans rank fourth, with Haitians following.
Puerto Ricans and nationals from the Dominican Republic are the least likely to have a bachelor's degree.
Barbadians also lead in having the highest percentage of graduate degrees, followed by Trinidad and Tobagonians and Jamaicans. Nationals from the Dominican Republic are the least likely to hold a graduate degree.
Private Health Insurance
Barbadians top the list for private health insurance coverage, followed by immigrants from Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica.
Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Haitians, and those from the Dominican Republic are less likely to have private health insurance.
This Caribbean American Heritage Month, let’s acknowledge and celebrate the economic achievements and contributions of Caribbean immigrants in the United States. Their hard work and dedication have significantly enriched the nation's cultural and economic landscape.