The Massachusetts median income grew slightly between 2011 and 2012, while nationwide median income was basically unchanged, according to new data released today by the Census Bureau. Even with the slight increase in Massachusetts, however, our median income remains 5.4 percent below its pre-recession level.
The Census numbers also included information about statewide poverty, health insurance, and child well-being:
- Poverty: There was no improvement in the statewide poverty level, which has increased substantially since 2007.
- Child Poverty: More than 1 in 7 children currently live below the poverty line.
- Health Coverage: Massachusetts continues to have the highest rate of health insurance coverage—for children and for the population as a whole
Read our Census Snapshot for more info and interactive charts.
Please share widely!
I was reading some conservative responses to Carl Sciortino’s latest “disgusting” ad and was surprised to learn what a terrible hell hole Massachusetts was and how all its citizens were fleeing for NH, etc. Now I understand why. It’s all the growing median income and first in the nation health insurance coverage rates that are driving people away.
I truly appreciate Massbudget for coming here and sharing this important data. What I see is a flattening of the middle class as well as the disturbing poverty indicators.
The upwardly mobile American Dream does not seem to be reality for many.
It is not my intention to be morose with these observations just a reality visit.
Come back often.
In Boston:
– 4.4% work in manufacturing.
– 35% rely on public transportation to get to work.
– 40% pay at least 35% of their household income in rent.
– Average home value: 370,400.
– 75.5% have a mortgage.
– Median rent: $1,234.
Lots more data here: http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ACS_12_1YR_CP04&prodType=table