Description of the Indicator
The county debt indicator depicts the total debt and debt per capita for each of the four counties in the region. Debt per capita measures total debt against the population, which indicates a government’s debt burden and current fiscal condition.
Why is it important?
This indicator points to the fiscal health of the four-county region. Understanding changes in debt per capita allows policymakers to understand the tax burden often placed on residents.
How is the region performing?
Lackawanna County has had the highest total debt and debt per capita since 2010. Luzerne and Wayne Counties have reduced their debt per capita over the past few years, while Wyoming County has seen an increase.