Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock (
) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.
Topics
Data & Maps
Surveys & Programs
Resource Library
Life on the Edge: Living Near Poverty in the United States, 1966-2011
Life on the Edge: Living Near Poverty in the United States, 1966-2011
Working Paper Number SEHSD-WP2013-02
This paper presents results of research and analysis undertaken by Census Bureau staff. Any views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the U.S. Census Bureau. It has undergone a more limited review than official publications.
Abstract
Researchers interested in economically vulnerable populations in the United States generally study populations living below the official poverty thresholds used by the U.S. Census Bureau. We know less about those living just above the poverty thresholds. This paper takes a deeper look at those living just above the official poverty thresholds. Using Mollie Orshansky’s (1966) definition of near poor, those living between 100 and less than 133 percent of the poverty thresholds, it compares rates by demographic and socioeconomic characteristics over 45 years (1966-2011). In addition, it examines how these rates change under alternative poverty measures.
Others in Series
Working Paper
Understanding Income-to-Threshold Ratios Using the SPM
This paper presents additional information about “moderate” income individuals with resources between 1 and 2 times the SPM thresholds.
Working Paper
The Living Arrangements of Young Adults in the U.S. 1995-2011
Examines how changes in living arrangements for young adults over the period were affected by the recession.
Working Paper
Mega Commuting in the U.S.
Examines the spatial patterns, demographic, and transportation characteristics of commuters who travel 50 or more miles AND 90 minutes or more to get to work.
Page Last Revised - October 8, 2021
✕
Is this page helpful?
Yes
No
Yes
No✕
NO THANKS
255 characters maximum
255 characters maximum reached
255 characters maximum reached
✕
Thank you for your feedback.
Comments or suggestions?
Comments or suggestions?
