Understanding Persistent Poverty and Income Inequality in Nebraska

Only a small number of Nebraska communities are considered persistently poor. This reflects well on the efforts of local communities and the state to promote long-term economic development and well-being.

The bad news is that persistent poverty is highly localized in Nebraska, occurring in a few communities with certain demographic and economic characteristics.

In terms of demographics, persistently poor areas are predominately rural, nonwhite, and poorly educated. In economic terms, these communities have high unemployment rates, are dependent on agriculture and tourism-related industries, and lack employment opportunities in traditional goods-producing aand advanced services industries.