Poverty in Johnson County
Work should offer a pathway out of poverty by providing an income that is sufficient to sustain a household, meet financial obligations, and save for short-term emergencies and long-term goals. Local data tell us that most of the working-age poor are doing just that – working. However, they do not work enough hours or earn high enough wages to rise above the poverty level. Often the jobs these workers hold pay low wages, offer only part-time or temporary work, may have unpredictable schedules and likely do not offer paid benefits such as sick leave. Nor do they offer an opportunity for advancement. As a result, the poor are working hard but not getting ahead.
The Working Poor in Johnson County
Nearly 1 in 6 poor adults worked full time, year round in 2014, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. And yet, even with full-time wages, their income fell below the federal poverty level. More than 6 in 10 worked part-time or part year. Only 24% did not work.
When Work Doesn’t Pay
According to data on wages paid by Johnson County employers, 1 in 9 jobs pay less than $10 an hour. Another 22% pay between $10 and $15 an hour. Together one-third of jobs in Johnson County pay less than $15 an hour, which is equivalent to $31,200 for full-time year-round work. Employment projections for the area suggest that the largest employment growth through 2022 will be predominantly low-wage occupations, such as sales clerk, restaurant worker, cashier, and personal care aide. Supporting a family and getting a secure foothold in life is challenging when job opportunities are concentrated in low-wage jobs.
2017 POVERTY THRESHOLDS
1 person $12,060
2 persons$16,240
3 persons$20,420
4 persons$24,600