Rexburg, Idaho is a small town located in the eastern part of the state. The town has a median income of just $33,278 and a poverty rate of 33.9%, which is the highest in Idaho. This means that nearly one in three Rexburg residents are living below the poverty line.
These statistics paint a stark picture of economic hardship faced by many residents of Idaho.
| Characteristic | Data |
| Poverty rate | 33.9% |
| Median income | $33,278 |
| Population | 39,034 |
| Population under 18 | 25.3% |
| Population 65 and over | 10.3% |
| Educational attainment: High school diploma or equivalent | 81.5% |
| Educational attainment: Bachelor’s degree or higher | 30.7% |
| Employment rate | 64.2% |
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% |
Factors Contributing To Rexburg’s Poverty
There are a number of factors that contribute to Rexburg’s high poverty rate. One factor is the town’s large student population. Brigham Young University-Idaho, a private religious university, is located in Rexburg. The university has a student body of over 20,000 students, many of whom are low-income.
Another factor that contributes to Rexburg’s poverty rate is the town’s low-wage jobs. The majority of jobs in Rexburg are in the retail and service industries, which typically pay low wages. This makes it difficult for residents to make ends meet.
Finally, Rexburg has a high cost of living. The cost of housing, food, and transportation are all higher in Rexburg than in other parts of Idaho. This makes it difficult for low-income residents to afford essential goods and services.
Challenges Facing Rexburg Residents
Residents of Rexburg face a number of challenges, including limited access to affordable housing, healthcare, and transportation.
Rexburg has a shortage of affordable housing. This is due in part to the town’s large student population. Students often compete with residents for housing, which drives up rental prices.
Rexburg also has a shortage of healthcare providers. The town has one hospital, but it is often overwhelmed with patients. This can make it difficult for residents to access timely and affordable healthcare.
Finally, Rexburg has a limited public transportation system. The town has just one bus route, which makes it difficult for residents to get around without a car. This is especially problematic for low-income residents who cannot afford to own a car.
FAQ About Rexburg, Idaho:
Q: What is the poverty rate in Rexburg, Idaho?
The poverty rate in Rexburg, Idaho is 33.9%. This means that over one-third of Rexburg’s residents are living below the poverty line.
Q. Who are the people most likely to live in poverty in Rexburg?
Young people, people with lower levels of education, and people employed in lower-paying jobs are more likely to live in poverty in Rexburg. They are also more likely to be single mothers and minorities.
Q. What are the impacts of poverty on individuals and families in Rexburg?
Poverty can have a significant impact on individuals and families, including food insecurity, housing insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, higher rates of crime and violence, lower educational attainment, and poor health outcomes.
Q. What is the government doing to address poverty in Rexburg?
The government is implementing a number of programs to address poverty in Rexburg, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), and the Low-Income Housing Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Q. What can the private sector do to address poverty in Rexburg?
The private sector can play a role in addressing poverty in Rexburg by creating jobs, investing in education and training, providing affordable housing, and donating to charities and organizations that are working to help people in need.
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