Motivations to migrate: Mexican professional middle classes in the United States

Abstract

This article analyzes the motivations behind the migration of Mexican professionals (MPs) to the United States based on a survey to 813 MPs and places it within the frame of middle class behavior. We look into the factors behind the three most frequent motivations for MP migration: to seek a better job, gain international experience, or hoping for a better quality of life. The logistic models used here show that the neoclassical explanation consistent with the homo economicus is insufficient, since there are factors of a social and personal nature that should be taken into account. Thus, the search for a greater quality of life has as an essential component the desire to be near one's family; and behind the motivation to acquire international experience there are a number of considerations such as limited job opportunities and a lack of an infrastructure for adequate laboral performance.