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Farmworkers and Nonfarm Work: Evidence from the NAWS

Author

Listed:
  • McGrady, Clare
  • Rutledge, Zachariah

Abstract

Historically, farmers in the United States have relied on a flexible supply of low-wage labor from rural Mexico. Recent studies indicate there has been a decline in this labor pool, partly due to competition from other economic sectors. This study utilizes data from the National Agricultural Workers Survey to examine factors influencing crop farmworkers’ likelihood of engaging in nonfarm work. We find that farmworkers who are male, have stronger nonfarm networks, higher education levels, legal work authorization, or engage in migrant farmwork are more likely to work off the farm.

Suggested Citation

  • McGrady, Clare & Rutledge, Zachariah, 2026. "Farmworkers and Nonfarm Work: Evidence from the NAWS," 2026 Annual Meeting, July 26 - 28, 2026, Kansas City, Missouri 404613, Agricultural and Applied Economics Association.
    • Handle: RePEc:ags:aaea26:404613
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.404613
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    File URL: https://ageconsearch.umn.edu/record/404613/files/177594_197835_115232_AAEA_2026_-_Nonfarm_Work.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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