ORLANDO, Fla. — In 2024, Paola Freites and her husband found refuge in Florida after fleeing violence in Colombia. They joined countless other immigrants drawn to the warm climate, vibrant Latino communities, and job prospects. The state's appeal, especially in metropolitan areas like Miami and Orlando, makes it a primary destination for newcomers.
According to the most recent government data, Florida hosted 1,271 migrants per 100,000 residents from May 2023 to January 2025, exceeding the figures for states like New York and Texas. Miami was the most impacted urban center, with 2,191 new immigrants per 100,000 residents.
Freites, now a hotel housekeeper in Orlando, reflects on the couple's initial struggles. Finding affordable housing was challenging; however, they managed to secure a rental through family ties, opting for Apopka—a more economically viable choice than Miami.
Historically, Central Florida's immigrant population has been predominantly from Mexico and Central America. However, a recent shift has seen a steady increase in Venezuelans, thanks to immigration programs offering legal pathways. The influx is not just changing demographics but also enhancing local economies where immigrants have characterized themselves as a vital labor force.
Organizations like Hope CommUnity Center and the Orlando Center for Justice have seen a dramatic rise in requests for assistance, demonstrating how new arrivals rely on community support networks. Immigrants are contributing to Florida’s economy, marking an increase from producing 24.3% of the state’s GDP in 2019 to 25.5% in 2023.
Yet, the political climate under the Trump administration has left many, like Blanca, a single mother from Mexico, anxious about potential deportation. Despite the challenges, Florida’s locales continue to embody a blend of hope and hardship as new residents strive to assert their place in the American dream.
According to the most recent government data, Florida hosted 1,271 migrants per 100,000 residents from May 2023 to January 2025, exceeding the figures for states like New York and Texas. Miami was the most impacted urban center, with 2,191 new immigrants per 100,000 residents.
Freites, now a hotel housekeeper in Orlando, reflects on the couple's initial struggles. Finding affordable housing was challenging; however, they managed to secure a rental through family ties, opting for Apopka—a more economically viable choice than Miami.
Historically, Central Florida's immigrant population has been predominantly from Mexico and Central America. However, a recent shift has seen a steady increase in Venezuelans, thanks to immigration programs offering legal pathways. The influx is not just changing demographics but also enhancing local economies where immigrants have characterized themselves as a vital labor force.
Organizations like Hope CommUnity Center and the Orlando Center for Justice have seen a dramatic rise in requests for assistance, demonstrating how new arrivals rely on community support networks. Immigrants are contributing to Florida’s economy, marking an increase from producing 24.3% of the state’s GDP in 2019 to 25.5% in 2023.
Yet, the political climate under the Trump administration has left many, like Blanca, a single mother from Mexico, anxious about potential deportation. Despite the challenges, Florida’s locales continue to embody a blend of hope and hardship as new residents strive to assert their place in the American dream.
