A recent study by the Common Sense Institute (CSI) reveals that Denver has spent a staggering $356 million on migrants since late 2022, equivalent to $7,900 per individual and representing 8% of the city's projected 2025 budget. This substantial sum incorporates expenses from the city budget, as well as regional education and healthcare resources.
The influx of migrants into Denver under the Biden-Harris administration has led to significant budget reallocations. Mayor Mike Johnston has implemented cuts to city services, including recreation center programs and landscaping initiatives, to accommodate the financial strain. A contingency fund has also been utilized to manage the rising costs.
Education constitutes the largest portion of the $356 million expenditure. With approximately 16,197 migrant students enrolled in Denver metro schools, the CSI estimates an annual cost of $228 million, potentially representing 1-2% of the state's K-12 education budget for the 2024-25 school year. The CSI calculates this figure based on a per-student cost of $14,100 for instruction and support in the Denver metro area.
Healthcare expenses also contribute significantly to the overall cost. The study approximates $49 million in uncompensated care provided to migrants in Denver metro area emergency departments, based on an estimated 16,760 migrant visits since December 2022.
Beyond education and healthcare, the city has incurred substantial costs for housing, personnel, services, and food. While initial projections for 2024 estimated expenditures of $180 million, the city's tracked spending is now around $79 million, with the largest allocations going towards facilities (34.5%), personnel (29.4%), services (14%), and food (11%).
Mayor Johnston has expressed his willingness to challenge policies he deems unlawful or unethical, even suggesting he would be prepared to face legal consequences for his stance. This position has drawn a strong response from Tom Homan, Trump's designated "border czar," who has stated his intent to enforce immigration laws.
