This statistical brief considers the growth and distribution of the Latino population in Indiana. It is apparent from the data presented that this population has undergone sudden and drastic change in the past decade. Today, the group is primarily Mexican in origin, most are first-generation immigrants, and they can be found throughout the state to a greater degree than previously. While many of them are handicapped by a lack of English proficiency, low income, and little formal education, they are nevertheless highly work-oriented, eager to learn the language, and striving to achieve self-sufficiency through work, study, and determination. Most of the respondents came for work, and they are hard workers. For example, some 40% of the households reported having three or more employed adults, while one-quarter had at least one worker holding at least two jobs. Overall, less than 2% of the group’s workers were unemployed. However, their wages are undoubtedly quite low; the median household income among those surveyed was between $10,000 and $20,000. Further, over one-third of the respondents lived in “shared” quarters and over 90% were renters. High proportions also had limited English-speaking skills, but most were seeking or taking ESL (English as a second language) training.

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