Between 2010 and 2020, Hispanics are expected to add 7.7 million workers to the labor force. In contrast, the number of non-Hispanic whites in the labor force is projected to decrease by 1.6 million.
As a result, Hispanics will account for the vast majority — 74% — of the 10.5 million workers to be added to the labor force in this ten-year period. Hispanics accounted for a much lower share — 36% — of the total labor force increase from 1990 to 2000 and between 2000 and 2010 (54%).
One major factor is the rapid growth of the Hispanic population due to births and immigration. At the same time, the drop in non-Hispanic whites is due to comparatively high aging.
Another important factor is the higher rate of labor force participation among Hispanics. This rate — the share of the population, ages 16 and older, who are either employed or looking for work — was 64.7% in 2010. Among Hispanics, the rate was 67.5%.
In addition, Hispanics are, on average, younger than other groups. The group also includes a higher share of immigrants. Read More
