List of U.S. states and territories by poverty rate

Poverty by U.S. state

Poverty in the U.S. by county

Poverty rates by state. US map

List of U.S. states and territories by poverty rate refers to the ranking of the United States' fifty states, the District of Columbia, and territories by their respective poverty rates. The poverty rate is a key economic indicator used to measure the percentage of the population living below the poverty line, which is set by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This measure takes into account various factors including income, family size, and age. The data for these rankings is primarily sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, particularly from the American Community Survey (ACS).

Overview

Poverty in the United States is a significant issue that affects millions of individuals and families. The federal government defines poverty based on a set of income thresholds that vary by family size and composition. People living below these thresholds are considered to be in poverty. The poverty rate is an important statistic for policymakers, researchers, and non-profit organizations as it helps to understand the extent of economic hardship in different areas and to allocate resources accordingly.

Methodology

The poverty rate is calculated by dividing the number of individuals living in poverty by the total population for whom poverty status is determined. These rates can vary significantly across different regions due to factors such as employment opportunities, cost of living, and state-level policies. The ACS provides annual updates on poverty rates, which allows for tracking changes over time.

Poverty Rates by State and Territory

The list of U.S. states and territories by poverty rate changes annually, reflecting shifts in economic conditions, employment rates, and policy impacts. Typically, states in the South and Southwest have higher poverty rates, while states in the Northeast and Midwest have lower rates. Territories, due to their unique economic and social challenges, often have higher poverty rates compared to states.

Highest Poverty Rates

States and territories with the highest poverty rates often face challenges such as lower employment levels, higher cost of living, and limited access to education and healthcare services. These areas may require targeted interventions to address poverty.

Lowest Poverty Rates

Conversely, states with the lowest poverty rates usually have stronger economies, higher employment levels, and more comprehensive social services. These factors contribute to a lower percentage of the population living in poverty.

Implications

The poverty rate is more than just a number; it has real-world implications for those living in poverty. High poverty rates are associated with higher incidences of health problems, limited access to education, and increased crime rates. Reducing poverty rates is a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach, including economic development, education reform, and healthcare access.

Efforts to Reduce Poverty

Both federal and state governments, along with numerous non-profit organizations, work towards reducing poverty through various programs and initiatives. These include income support programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), healthcare programs such as Medicaid, and education funding. The effectiveness of these programs in reducing poverty rates is a subject of ongoing research and debate.