One of the most common reasons why foreign nationals immigrate to the United States is for economic opportunity. The concept of the "American Dream" is one that is closely associated with economic opportunity. As a result, many foreign nationals are inspired to come and live the American Dream for themselves, although the concept itself may have a different meaning for each immigrant who comes into the country.

Many would agree, including Joyce Bryant of Yale University's New Haven Teachers Institute, that "the main reason for immigration has long been economic opportunity, the lure of better land or a better job."