A research project from
Oregon’s economy is only as strong as its households’ financial well-being. Our success relies on a stable economy where all Oregonians can meet their financial needs. Not all households, however, currently have access to what they need to meet their household expenses. This issue brief elevates voices from across the state on how the lack of living wage jobs and economic opportunity impacts Oregonians’ financial well-being.
11% of respondents indicated it would be “very difficult” to get $1,000 in an emergency.
“I am able to make it living here because of the job that I have. If it were not for that I would not be here”
– Rural, white, employed full-time, $65,000-$99,999, Union County
More than half of respondents (55%) agreed or strongly agreed that jobs do not pay enough in their communities.
“It feels like a ‘barbell’ community with a number of wealthier residents (doctors, professionals, retirees) doing well and a large segment of the middle/low-income families really struggling.”
– Rural, white, employed full-time, $100,000 or more, Douglas County
Across all incomes levels, respondents share how the wealth divide in their communities is growing, particularly due to increased housing costs.
“Unless you have lived here or your family has lived here and has passed your home/ranch on to you, it is impossible to purchase a nice home, land costs are too high (and wages too low).”
– Rural, white, employed full-time, $100,000 or more, Baker County
Click image to download issue brief PDF.