Research
Data-driven insights on Idaho’s workforce and economy
The Story of Idaho Labor Markets: An Economic Analysis of Foreign-Born Contributions
February 2026
This economic analysis evaluates the potential impact of workforce disruptions on Idaho’s economy using input from industry leaders alongside data from federal agencies and private economic providers. The study finds that reductions in the unauthorized workforce could reduce Idaho’s gross state product by 4–5 percent and cut state tax revenues by an estimated $397.8 million. It also examines how these disruptions would affect employment, household income, and overall economic activity across key sectors statewide.
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A detailed economic analysis of foreign-born workers’ contributions to Idaho’s economy and the projected impacts of workforce losses.
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A quick snapshot of the study’s key findings, including job impacts, income losses, and effects on Idaho’s economy.
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A summary of the press conference announcing the study results, including highlights and organizational quotes.
Cato Study: Immigrants’ Recent Effects on Government Budgets: 1994–2023,
February 2026
Recent increases in immigration have rekindled concerns about their effects on government budgets. A new analysis from the Cato Institute updates a fiscal model first developed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to examine how immigrants—both legal and unauthorized—and their children affect federal, state, and local budgets. The study finds that from 1994 to 2023, immigrants consistently paid more in taxes than they received in public benefits, generating a $14.5 trillion cumulative fiscal surplus in real 2024 dollars, including $3.9 trillion in reduced interest costs on the national debt. Without immigrants, U.S. public debt would be dramatically higher—estimated at 205 percent of GDP, nearly double its 2023 level.
Boise State University: 2026 Idaho Public Policy Survey
January 2026
The 11th Annual Statewide Survey, conducted by Boise State University School of Public Service, provides a comprehensive look at Idahoans’ views on key policy issues shaping the state. Based on responses from residents across Idaho, the study examines attitudes on the economy, housing affordability, workforce challenges, education, and public policy priorities. Notably, 79% of Republicans support providing dairy workers and their families who have lived in Idaho for more than 10 years and have no criminal record with a legal pathway to working status. The survey offers data-driven insights into how Idahoans perceive current conditions and future challenges, serving as a valuable resource for policymakers, business leaders, and community stakeholders.
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Results from Boise State University’s 11th Annual Statewide Survey highlight Idahoans’ concerns about affordability, the economy, and workforce issues.
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Explore the interactive dashboard showing detailed results from the 2026 Idaho Statewide Survey on public attitudes toward the economy, housing, healthcare, public lands, and more.
McClure Center: The Unauthorized Immigrant Workforce and Idaho’s Economy
February 2024
This report, conducted by the McClure Center for Public Policy Research, describes Idaho’s unauthorized workforce and how their work, spending and taxes relate to Idaho’s economy. The report examined existing data and research on unauthorized immigrants, both nationally and in Idaho. The McClure Center conducts independent, evidence-based research. Publications contain no policy recommendations.
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Download the full report examining Idaho’s unauthorized workforce and how their work, spending, and taxes contribute to the state’s economy.
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Download a snapshot of the report’s key findings and economic impacts.