Working Isn’t Enough: St. Louis’s ALICE Households

Written By Civic Insight

The Stat

147,164 working households earn above the federal poverty line but below what it costs to cover basic necessities

The Insight

Asset limited, income constrained, employed households (ALICE) have a prime-age labor force participation rate of 84.1%, close to the regional average. They face an overall poverty rate of 22.2% while having a 6.6% unemployment rate. Rent, childcare, and transportation costs absorb the income that does come in.

Why It Matters

These are engaged households in the labor market, doing the work yet coming up short. Without support around childcare, training access, and wages, employment isn't enough to be financially secure.

👉 Full analysis in the Enhanced Labor Market Analysis (ELMA) made in partnership with the Inclusive Prosperity Partnership, Key Strategic Group, and East-West Gateway

Civic Insight
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