Which characteristic is commonly associated with unauthorized immigrants in the United States?

The characteristic that is commonly associated with unauthorized immigrants in the United States is their employment in low-wage jobs. This trend can be attributed to several factors, including limited access to high-quality education and job training, as well as barriers such as language, legal status, and discrimination that affect their ability to secure higher-paying positions. Many unauthorized immigrants fill essential roles in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and service industries, often taking on jobs that are less desirable to the native-born workforce.

These low-wage jobs frequently lack benefits and job security, contributing to a cycle of economic vulnerability among unauthorized immigrants. The economic conditions that lead many individuals to migrate to the U.S., coupled with their challenges in the labor market, ensure that a significant portion remains in lower-paying positions.

In contrast, characteristics such as higher rates of home ownership, being older than the native-born population, or having higher education levels than authorized immigrants do not accurately reflect the circumstances of unauthorized immigrants, as they typically experience housing challenges, younger average ages, and lower overall levels of educational attainment compared to their authorized counterparts.