Most Houstonians support immigrants, new survey shows
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Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios
Greater Houston residents take pride in the Bayou City and strongly support immigrants, according to the latest Kinder Houston Area Survey released Monday.
Why it matters: This year's survey questioned more than 10,000 participants in Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties, the largest sample ever undertaken by Rice's Kinder Institute for Urban Research.
- The survey, now in its 44th year, measures attitudes and beliefs among a select group of regional residents to help inform and shape public policy.
By the numbers: A majority of respondents in all three counties (71% in Harris, 72% in Fort Bend and 61% in Montgomery) said they believe immigrants contribute more than they take from the economy.
- When it comes to undocumented immigrants, 64% of Harris County and 56% of Fort Bend County residents agreed that they contribute more than they take, while 48% of Montgomery County residents agreed.
What they're saying: "Residents are telling us they appreciate and value the people who make up this city, and that includes our immigrant population," Dan Potter, director of the Houston Population Research Center, said in a press release.
The intrigue: 80% of respondents said they believe Houston is a better place to live than other major metros, and 80% also pride themselves as "Houstonians."
Yes, but: 40% said they've considered leaving Greater Houston, and 16% said it is very likely or extremely likely they'll move.
Zoom in: Harris County respondents said crime (26%) continues to be the "biggest problem" in the community, despite Houston's declining homicide rate.
- The next two top issues for Harris County residents were the economy (17%) and the cost of housing (15%).
- Traffic was the top concern for Fort Bend and Montgomery County residents.
The bottom line: Respondents overall rated their quality of life as good, very good or excellent across all three counties.