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English Proficiency and Labor Market Outcomes in New England

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  • Osborne Jackson

Abstract

Proficiency in a country’s primary language is a skill that can be expected to improve labor market outcomes. Considering the United States specifically, individuals with strong English-language skills presumably could fare better in US labor markets compared with individuals who are less proficient in the language. These benefits potentially are most relevant for immigrants since their English proficiency may be lower on average than it is for natives. Given the importance of immigration to the economy of New England, where it plays a central role in population growth and where foreign-born persons comprise one-fifth of the labor force, the impact of increased English proficiency on labor market outcomes may be particularly relevant for the region.

Suggested Citation

  • Osborne Jackson, 2026. "English Proficiency and Labor Market Outcomes in New England," New England Public Policy Center Research Report 26-2, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.
    • Handle: RePEc:fip:fedbcr:103017
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Riley Sullivan, 2023. "Recent Migration and Visa Trends in New England and Implications for the Labor Market," New England Public Policy Center Regional Brief 2023-1, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.
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    6. Osborne Jackson, 2019. "The impact of migration on earnings inequality in New England," New England Public Policy Center Research Report 19-2, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J30 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - General
    • J64 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Unemployment: Models, Duration, Incidence, and Job Search
    • R23 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Household Analysis - - - Regional Migration; Regional Labor Markets; Population

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