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New data from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2023 American Community Survey offers a mixed picture of poverty in West Virginia. While the state saw a modest decline in its overall poverty rate, the challenges faced by many children and families remain severe. As of 2023, 285,780 West Virginians lived in poverty, including nearly 70,000 children. Though the state's poverty rate fell to 16.7 percent, down from 17.9 percent in 2022, it remains significantly higher than the national rate of 11.1 percent. West Virginia holds the unfortunate distinction of having the fourth highest poverty rate among the 50 states and Washington, D.C.

Child Poverty: A Persistent Crisis

One of the most alarming trends highlighted in the report is the continued high rate of child poverty. Although child poverty decreased from a shocking 25 percent in 2022 to 20.1 percent in 2023, West Virginia still ranks eighth in the country for child poverty. This means that one in five children in the state continues to face economic hardship, a situation that can have long-term detrimental effects on health, education, and future economic mobility.

Addressing child poverty is crucial, not just because children are among the most vulnerable members of society, but also because poverty during childhood often has lifelong consequences. Investing in programs that directly support children and their families, such as access to quality education, healthcare, and nutrition, can help break this cycle.

Income Growth and Economic Disparities

Median household income in West Virginia saw a slight increase, rising from $54,329 in 2022 to $55,948 in 2023. However, this is still $24,662 below the national average of $80,610, and West Virginia ranks last in the nation for median household income. While income growth nationally was at four percent, West Virginia lagged slightly behind at three percent.

For the middle class and working families, this gap in income translates to greater financial strain, particularly when combined with rising costs of living, including housing, healthcare, and childcare. Higher household income is essential not only for individual financial security but also for the state's broader economic growth and stability.

Disparities by Race, Gender, and Education

The poverty rate for Black West Virginians remained flat in 2023 at 30.2 percent, which is nearly double the state’s overall poverty rate. Seniors, too, saw little change, with 12 percent of those aged 65 and older living in poverty. Educational attainment continues to be a major factor in poverty, with only 5.2 percent of West Virginians with a bachelor’s degree or higher living in poverty, compared to 32.8 percent of those without a high school diploma. Gender disparities also persist, with women experiencing a higher poverty rate (18.4 percent) than men (14.8 percent).

These disparities highlight how poverty is not evenly distributed across the population. Systemic inequality continues to affect specific groups more severely. The state's high poverty rate for Black residents and those without a high school education underscores the need for targeted policy interventions to address these inequities.

What Can Be Done?

While the decline in overall and child poverty is a positive sign, the state’s poverty crisis remains urgent. The concentration of poverty among children, Black residents, and those without higher education calls for immediate policy responses.

1. State-Level Child Tax Credit: A state-level child tax credit could be an effective tool in reducing child poverty. It would provide direct financial relief to families and improve the well-being of children across West Virginia.
2. Affordable Higher Education: Given the direct link between educational attainment and poverty, policies that make higher education more accessible and affordable could reduce poverty in the long term. This includes expanding financial aid, reducing tuition costs, and providing pathways to technical training.
3. Raising the Minimum Wage: Increasing the state’s minimum wage could lift more working families out of poverty. Many of West Virginia’s low-income workers are stuck in jobs that do not pay a living wage, making it difficult for them to support themselves and their families.

Final Thoughts

The 2023 data tells a story of both progress and persistent challenges. While West Virginia has made strides in reducing poverty, particularly for children, the state's poverty rate remains among the highest in the nation. Meaningful policy changes, such as expanding support for children and families, addressing racial and educational disparities, and raising the minimum wage, are essential to continuing this progress and ensuring that no West Virginian is left behind.