NewsKPBS Public MediaSeptember 8, 2026United States
Study reveals Chicago lost over $1.26 billion in retail and tax revenue due to 2025 ICE raids
Photo: KPBS Public Media
A new study reports that 2025 ICE raids in Chicago reduced retail, restaurant, and sales-tax revenue by more than $1.26 billion as residents stayed home out of fear. The resulting decrease in economic activity drained local businesses and public coffers.
Read the full story at KPBS Public MediaWhy It Matters
Local businesses and government budgets absorb the financial impact of reduced consumer spending, amounting to over $1.26 billion in lost revenue.
Key Facts
- A new study details the economic impact of 2025 ICE raids in Chicago.
- Fear caused many immigrants to stay home, reducing consumer activity.
- The Chicago area lost more than $1.26 billion in retail, restaurant, and sales-tax revenue.
Who's Mentioned
PersonMatt Wilson“Professor and co-author of the study”locationIllinois“State experiencing tax revenue loss”PersonCaridad“Chicago waitress interviewed in the report”PersonDonald Trump“President taking office on Jan. 20, 2025”OrganizationBrookings Institution“Produced a report on aggregate consumer spending in high-enforcement states”locationMinneapolis“City estimating economic damage from ICE sweeps”locationChicago“City where commerce was studied”locationCook County“County containing Chicago neighborhoods tracked in the study”PersonLauren Bis“White House spokesperson”OrganizationUniversity of Illinois Chicago“Published the economic impact study”