50 Facts About The U.S. Economy That Will Shock You

[Jason1]

Originally Posted by Bond

Sorry, I should have given what I said more than a one sentence explanation.

It is based off of what the federal government considers poverty, which is the problem. Let's say we have a family of four that makes $20,000. Would this family be impoverished if they lived in New York City? Certainly. What about in rural Texas? Perhaps not. You're looking at significant state income tax differences (Texas has no state income tax), sales tax differences, and general cost of livings differences. The problem is that the federal government has one number for poverty and low-income cutoffs, but that number is not created equal in every part of our country.

I'm sorry, I guess I see the point your trying to make, but this is idiotic. I dont care where in the United States you are living, if your a family of 4 with a total household income of only $20,000, YOU ARE POOR.

[Professor S]

Originally Posted by Jason1

I'm sorry, I guess I see the point your trying to make, but this is idiotic. I dont care where in the United States you are living, if your a family of 4 with a total household income of only $20,000, YOU ARE POOR.

I'm not sure Bond used the best example, but there are vast differences in cost of living across the U.S. I addition. the definition of poverty continues to change depending on who makes that delineation and what types of policies they want to support.

In my opinion, unless I see exactly what this author is referencing to define poverty, I don't take any opinion based on that reference seriously.