Description of the Indicator
This indicator measures the percentage of residents living below the federal poverty level across the four-county region and Pennsylvania over time. The federal poverty threshold varies based on household size and is adjusted periodically.
Why is it important?
Poverty rates provide insight into the economic well-being of residents and the level of need for services such as food assistance, housing support, healthcare access, and other community resources. Tracking changes over time helps identify where economic conditions are improving or worsening.
How is the region performing?
Poverty rates have fluctuated across the region. Between the two most recent years of available data, rates declined in Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wyoming counties, as well as Pennsylvania, while Wayne County experienced a slight increase.