36.8 million Americans lived in poverty in 2023, with official poverty rate declining to 11.1%, but supplemental poverty measure rising to 12.9% due to higher medical expenses.
In 2023, approximately 36.8 million Americans lived in poverty, reflecting a slight decline in the official poverty rate to 11.1%. However, the supplemental poverty measure rose to 12.9%, indicating higher out-of-pocket medical expenses. Sociologist Mark Rank argues the supplemental measure better captures economic realities. Despite improvements for some groups, the U.S. holds one of the highest poverty rates among industrialized nations due to income inequality and a weak safety net.
September 10, 2024
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