As the cost of necessities continues to climb, an increasing number of American families are struggling to make ends meet. The crisis is particularly severe for low-income households, especially families of color, who are disproportionately impacted by inflation.
A significant portion of American families, ranging between 13% and 43%, are currently struggling to cover basic expenses. For families of color, the situation is even more dire, with over half facing financial hardships. The root cause of this issue lies in the widening gap between income and the cost of living.
Historically, the prices of essential goods and services such as food, rent, healthcare, and transportation have risen at a faster rate than overall inflation. This trend has disproportionately impacted lower-income families, as a larger portion of their income is allocated to these necessities.
“We don’t go out as often and choose to eat at home now. It doesn’t change our day-to-day routine when we get our groceries, but we are shocked by the prices,” shared one consumer. “I feel really bad for people who live paycheck to paycheck because they don’t know how they’re doing it.”
Over the decades, the rising cost of necessities has eroded the purchasing power of low-income families. According to the U.S. Census historical income tables from 1967 to 2022, Black and Hispanic households have been hardest hit, with their incomes consistently trailing behind those of white families. This disparity is exacerbated by the fact that these communities are more likely to live in areas with a higher cost of living.
The economic challenges faced by low-income families were further intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent inflation surges, while incomes remained stagnant. Without targeted interventions, the financial strain on these families is expected to continue escalating.
Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach:
- Accurate Measurement: Policymakers must accurately measure the impact of inflation on low-income families by using price indexes that reflect their spending patterns.
- Program Indexing: Programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) need to be indexed to the cost of necessities to maintain their effectiveness.
- Long-Term Strategies: Initiatives to boost income and wealth, such as early childhood education, job training, and affordable housing, are essential.
- Policy Evaluation: Policies that increase the cost of essential goods, such as tariffs or immigration restrictions, must be carefully evaluated for their impact on low-income households.
The rising cost of living is a significant issue that requires immediate and sustained action to ensure that all American families can meet their basic needs and thrive.