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Migration, Gender, Wages and Wellbeing: Who Gains and in Which Ways?

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  • Kate Preston

    (Motu Economic and Public Policy Research)

  • Arthur Grimes

    (Motu Economic and Public Policy Research
    Victoria University of Wellington)

Abstract

Empirical studies have consistently documented that while married men tend to lead more prosperous careers after moving, migration tends to be disruptive for careers of married women. We extend this literature by exploring whether migration is followed by a change in subjective wellbeing (SWB). We examine how this experience differs by individuals of different gender, relationship-status and motivations for moving (of both partners in a couple relationship, where relevant). The results are compared to wage differences following migration. All results are conditioned on time-varying personal characteristics, including important life events. Consistent with prior literature, males have a stronger tendency than females to increase their earnings after moving. However, we find that females have a stronger tendency than males to increase their SWB following a move. These gender differences are pronounced for couples. Differences tend to narrow, but do not disappear, once we account for motivations for moving of individuals and, where relevant, of their partner.

Suggested Citation

  • Kate Preston & Arthur Grimes, 2019. "Migration, Gender, Wages and Wellbeing: Who Gains and in Which Ways?," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 144(3), pages 1415-1452, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:soinre:v:144:y:2019:i:3:d:10.1007_s11205-019-02079-y
    DOI: 10.1007/s11205-019-02079-y
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    Cited by:

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    2. Rennie Lee & Laxman Bablani, 2023. "Do Asian Immigrants Have Better Mental Health? An Examination of Arrival Cohort and Gender in Australia," Population Research and Policy Review, Springer;Southern Demographic Association (SDA), vol. 42(3), pages 1-29, June.

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