The Geography of Undocumented Mexican Migration

Authors:
  • DMDouglas S. Massey
    Douglas S. Massey
  • JRJacob S. Rugh
    Jacob S. Rugh
  • KPKaren A. Pren
    Karen A. Pren
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Abstract
Using data from Mexico's Matrícula Consular program, we analyze the geographic organization of undocumented Mexican migration to the United States. We show that emigration has moved beyond its historical origins in west-central Mexico into the central region and, to a lesser extent, the southeast and border regions. In the United States, traditional gateways continue to dominate, but a variety of new destinations have emerged. California, in particular, has lost its overwhelming dominance. Although the geographic structure of Mexico-U.S. migration is relatively stable, it has nonetheless continued to evolve and change over time.