1. What is the estimated minimum income required for a single individual to cover basic expenses in Missouri?

The estimated minimum income required for a single individual to cover basic expenses in Missouri is $26,789 per year before taxes. This amount is based on the Economic Policy Institute’s Family Budget Calculator, which takes into account basic needs such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities in a specific area. However, the actual minimum income needed may vary depending on an individual’s personal circumstances and spending habits.

2. How does the cost of living in Missouri impact the minimum income needed for basic needs?

The cost of living in Missouri varies depending on the location, with urban areas generally having a higher cost of living compared to rural areas. Overall, the cost of living in Missouri is slightly lower than the national average.

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, which estimates the minimum income needed for a family of four to meet their basic needs without public assistance, the minimum annual income needed in Missouri is $55,625. This includes expenses such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and childcare.

In comparison to other states, this places Missouri near the middle in terms of cost of living. For example, neighboring state Kansas has a slightly higher estimated minimum income needed at $57,236 per year, while states like California and New York have much higher estimates at $69.935 and $73,446 respectively.

Overall, the lower cost of living in Missouri may make it more affordable for individuals and families to meet their basic needs with a lower income compared to other states. This can also vary based on individual circumstances such as housing choices and access to resources.

3. Does the minimum wage in Missouri align with the cost of living and cover basic needs for workers?

The minimum wage in Missouri does not necessarily align with the cost of living and cover basic needs for workers. The current minimum wage in Missouri is $9.45 per hour, which is below the national average of $11.80 per hour. According to the Economic Policy Institute’s Basic Family Budget Calculator, a single adult in Missouri would need to earn at least $13.92 per hour to cover basic necessities such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other expenses.

Many argue that the minimum wage in Missouri is not enough to support a sustainable living for workers and their families. This can be seen in the fact that almost one-third of all workers earning less than $12 per hour in Missouri live below the poverty line.

Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified concerns about the adequacy of the minimum wage in Missouri. Essential workers who are often paid minimum wage have faced increased risks while working during the pandemic, but have not received significant increases in their wages to compensate for these risks.

In summary, while some progress has been made towards increasing the minimum wage in recent years, it still falls short of covering basic needs for many workers in Missouri.

4. What percentage of Missouri’s population falls below the income threshold for basic needs?

According to a report by the United Way, approximately 47% of Missouri households struggle to meet their basic needs, which includes housing, child care, food, health care and transportation. This accounts for nearly half of the state’s population falling below the income threshold for basic needs.

5. Is there any government assistance available for individuals or families who do not meet the minimum income for basic needs in Missouri?

Yes, there are several government assistance programs available for low-income individuals and families in Missouri. These include:

1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): This program provides low-income individuals and families with monthly benefits to purchase food.

2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This program provides cash assistance and supportive services to low-income families with children.

3. Medicaid: This program provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible individuals and families.

4. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program helps low-income households with their home heating and cooling costs.

5. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: This program helps low-income individuals and families afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing by subsidizing a portion of their rent payments.

6. Missouri Food Bank Association: The Missouri Food Bank Association works to reduce hunger in the state by distributing food to local food banks and pantries.

To find out if you qualify for these programs or for more information on how to apply, you can visit the website of the Missouri Department of Social Services or contact them at (855) 373-4636.

6. What factors contribute to the varying minimum income for basic needs across different regions within Missouri?

1. Cost of Living: The cost of living can vary significantly across regions in Missouri, which directly affects the minimum income for basic needs. For example, housing costs are typically higher in urban areas like St. Louis and Kansas City compared to rural areas.

2. Job Market: The job market in each region of Missouri also plays a role in determining the minimum income for basic needs. Regions with strong economies and a high demand for workers may offer higher wages, leading to a higher minimum income.

3. Demographics: The demographics of a region, such as age and education levels, can also impact the minimum income needed for basic needs. For example, areas with a higher percentage of older adults may have a lower minimum income requirement due to lower transportation and childcare costs.

4. Availability of Public Assistance Programs: Some regions may have more access to public assistance programs like food stamps or subsidized housing, which can help lower the overall minimum income needed for basic needs.

5. State and Local Policies: State and local policies such as tax rates, minimum wage laws, and affordable housing initiatives can also affect the cost of living and therefore influence the minimum income for basic needs in different regions.

6. Infrastructure and Transportation Costs: The availability and cost of public transportation can vary between regions, affecting expenses such as commuting costs or access to affordable groceries.

7. Climate: Regions with harsher climates may have higher energy costs (i.e., heating or cooling) that contribute to the overall cost of living and therefore impact the minimum income needed for basic needs.

8. Education Costs: The cost of education, including tuition rates at colleges and universities within a region, can also affect the overall cost of living and add to the required minimum income for basic needs among families with children or young adults seeking advanced degrees.

9 Lower-income Population Concentrations: Regions with larger populations earning lower incomes may have lower median wages overall. This could result in a lower minimum income for basic needs compared to regions with more income diversity.

7. Are there any efforts being made at the state level to address issues of poverty and inadequate income for basic needs in Missouri?

Yes, there are various efforts being made at the state level to address poverty and inadequate income for basic needs in Missouri. Some examples include:

1. State-Sponsored Programs: Missouri has implemented various programs that aim to alleviate poverty and improve income levels for its residents. These include Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, and low-income housing assistance.

2. Workforce Development: The state government has also invested in workforce development programs in order to equip individuals with the necessary skills and education to secure better-paying jobs.

3. Minimum Wage Increases: In November 2018, Missouri voters approved a gradual increase of the minimum wage from $7.85 per hour in 2019 to $12 per hour by 2023, which is expected to help lift thousands of Missourians out of poverty.

4. Education Initiatives: The state has also introduced initiatives aimed at improving access to quality education and reducing dropout rates among low-income communities, such as scholarship programs, mentorship programs, and early childhood education programs.

5. Missouri Works Program: This program offers tax incentives and workforce training grants to businesses that create new jobs in economically distressed areas of the state.

Overall, while progress is being made in addressing poverty and inadequate income in Missouri, the state still faces challenges in reducing these issues for its residents. Therefore, further efforts are needed to fully tackle this issue at the state level.

8. How has the minimum income for basic needs changed over time in Missouri?

The minimum income for basic needs in Missouri has changed over time as follows:

– In 1960, the minimum income for a single person was estimated at $2,600 per year, or about $22,200 in today’s dollars.
– In 1970, the minimum income for a single person rose to $3,990 per year, or about $26,400 in today’s dollars.
– In 1980, the minimum income for a single person increased to $8,150 per year, or about $24,700 in today’s dollars.
– By 1990, the minimum income for a single person had risen significantly to $13,720 per year, or about $25,200 in today’s dollars.
– In 2000, the minimum income for a single person was estimated at $14,800 per year. adjusted for inflation this would be around $22.500 in todays dollars.
– By 2010, the minimum income for a single person was estimated at $23,401 per year.


Overall, there has been a gradual increase in the minimum income needed for basic needs in Missouri over time. This is largely due to factors such as inflation and a rise in living expenses. However, it is important to note that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as location and individual circumstances.

9. Is universal basic income being considered as a potential solution to address inadequate income in Missouri?

There is currently no specific legislation or proposals in Missouri that mention universal basic income as a potential solution to address inadequate income. However, there have been discussions and debates at the national level about implementing universal basic income as a means of providing financial security to all citizens. It is possible that in the future, the issue of inadequate income may be addressed through policies such as universal basic income.

10. Are there programs or initiatives specifically targeting low-income households in need of financial support for basic needs in Missouri?

Yes, there are several programs and initiatives in Missouri that specifically target low-income households in need of financial support for basic needs. Here are some examples:

1. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This program provides cash assistance to low-income families with children to help meet their basic needs.

2. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Formerly known as food stamps, SNAP provides monthly benefits to eligible low-income individuals and families to purchase food.

3. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP helps eligible households with their energy bills, providing financial assistance to keep the heat on during the winter months or cooling during the summer.

4. Missouri Medicaid: This program provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families, including children, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

5. Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP): TEFAP provides commodities such as grains, fruits, and vegetables to emergency feeding organizations across Missouri that serve low-income households.

6. Housing Choice Voucher Program: Administered by local public housing agencies, this program provides rental assistance to eligible low-income families, allowing them to afford decent and safe housing.

7. Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): The EITC is a refundable tax credit that can significantly reduce poverty among working families by supplementing their earned income.

8. Community Action Agencies: These agencies provide a variety of services aimed at alleviating poverty in low-income communities, including financial counseling and assistance accessing resources like childcare and transportation.

9. School Breakfast Program: This federally funded program aims to provide nutritious breakfast meals to school-age children from low-income families who might otherwise go without breakfast at home.

10. Summer Food Service Program: Also federally funded, this program provides free meals and snacks to children from low-income areas during the summer months when school meal programs are not available.

11. How do different demographic groups, such as seniors or single parents, fare when it comes to meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs in Missouri?

According to recent data, seniors (65 and older) have a higher rate of meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs compared to other age groups in Missouri. This is likely because many seniors may receive Social Security benefits or retirement savings that contribute to their income.

On the other hand, single parents with minor children have a lower rate of meeting their minimum income requirements for basic needs in Missouri. This could be due to the fact that they often have additional expenses such as child care costs and rely on one income to support their family.

Additionally, racial and ethnic minorities in Missouri also face challenges when it comes to meeting their basic needs. Data shows that African American households are more than twice as likely to live below the federal poverty line compared to white households in the state.

It is important to note that these demographic groups may face intersecting disadvantages and barriers based on factors such as education level, employment opportunities, and access to affordable housing. As such, the ability to meet minimum income requirements for basic needs can vary greatly within each group.

12. What measures can be taken to bridge the gap between the current minimum income and what is needed to cover basic expenses in Missouri?

1. Increase the minimum wage: One of the most direct ways to bridge the gap between current minimum income and basic expenses is to raise the minimum wage. This will provide more income for low-wage workers to cover their basic expenses.

2. Provide tax breaks for low-income individuals: The government can provide tax breaks or credits for low-income individuals to help offset their basic expenses.

3. Create affordable housing options: The cost of housing is a major expense for many in Missouri, and creating more affordable housing options can help reduce this burden on low-income individuals.

4. Expand access to education and job training programs: By investing in education and job training programs, individuals can increase their skills and qualifications, leading to higher-paying jobs and a higher minimum income level.

5. Provide healthcare assistance: Healthcare costs can be a significant portion of an individual’s expenses, and providing assistance with healthcare costs can help reduce the financial burden on low-income individuals.

6. Increase access to childcare services: Access to affordable childcare services can allow parents to work without having to pay high childcare costs, increasing their overall disposable income.

7. Encourage small business growth: Supporting small businesses can lead to job creation and ultimately increase employment opportunities that offer higher wages.

8. Implement living wage laws: Some cities in Missouri have implemented living wage laws, which require employers to pay employees enough to cover basic living expenses. Implementing such laws statewide could help bridge the gap between current minimum income levels and basic expenses.

9. Address food insecurity: Food is another essential expense, and addressing food insecurity through programs such as food banks or SNAP benefits can help reduce the financial strain on low-income individuals.

10. Address transportation barriers: Lack of reliable transportation can make it difficult for individuals to access work or educational opportunities that offer higher wages. Improving public transportation infrastructure or providing subsidies for transportation costs could help address this barrier.

11. Encourage savings and financial literacy: Educating individuals on budgeting, saving, and financial planning can help them stretch their income and better manage their expenses.

12. Engage in policy research and advocacy: Conducting research on the current cost of living in Missouri and advocating for policies that address the gap between minimum income and basic expenses can bring attention to this issue and lead to meaningful change.

13. Has there been any research done on how an increase in minimum income can positively impact overall economic growth and well-being of residents in Missouri?

Yes, there has been research done on how an increase in minimum income can positively impact overall economic growth and well-being of residents in Missouri.

One study, published by the Economic Policy Institute in 2018, examined the potential effects of increasing Missouri’s minimum wage from $7.85 to $12 per hour by 2023. The study found that this increase would result in a net increase of over $2 billion in state GDP over four years, as well as the creation of over 15,000 new jobs. It also estimated that almost half a million Missouri workers would receive a raise.

Another study, conducted by the University of California Berkeley Labor Center in 2019, analyzed the potential benefits of raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour nationwide. The study found that Missouri workers would see an average annual pay increase of about $2,900 by 2026 if this policy were implemented. In addition to increased income for workers, the report also projected benefits for local businesses and government revenue.

Furthermore, several studies have found that raising the minimum wage may have positive impacts on public health and well-being. For example, researchers at New York University found that states with higher minimum wages had lower rates of mental illness among low-wage workers. Another study published in the American Journal of Public Health suggested that increasing wages could reduce child poverty and improve child health outcomes.

Overall, research suggests that increasing the minimum wage can lead to significant economic growth and improvements in well-being for Missouri residents.

14. Are there any industries or occupations that are more likely to have workers earning below the minimum income required for basic needs in Missouri?

The industries and occupations that are more likely to have workers earning below the minimum income required for basic needs in Missouri include:
1. Retail trade – retail salespersons, cashiers
2. Food services and drinking places – waiters/waitresses, fast food workers
3. Accommodation – hotel clerks, housekeeping staff
4. Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting – farmworkers
5. Health care and social assistance – home health aides, personal care aides
6. Administrative and support services – janitors/cleaners, security guards
7. Manufacturing – production workers
8. Other services (except public administration) – child care workers, hairdressers/barbers
9. Construction – construction laborers
10. Transportation and warehousing – truck drivers

15. How accessible are affordable housing options for those with low incomes struggling to meet their basic needs in Missouri?

The availability of affordable housing options for low-income individuals varies in Missouri. On one hand, there are some cities and counties that have a large number of affordable housing units available, such as Kansas City and St. Louis, which have thousands of units dedicated to low-income families. Additionally, there are some programs in place designed to provide subsidies or rental assistance to help low-income individuals afford housing.

However, there are also many areas in the state where affordable housing is scarce. In rural parts of Missouri, for example, it can be difficult for those with low incomes to find housing options that are both affordable and convenient to their job or community. Additionally, the cost of living in Missouri has been rising, making it more challenging for low-income individuals to meet their basic needs.

Moreover, there are often long waiting lists for subsidized housing programs in the state. This means that even if there are some affordable housing options available, they may not be immediately accessible for those who need them most.

Overall, while affordable housing options do exist in Missouri for those with low incomes struggling to meet their basic needs, access can still be limited depending on location and availability of resources. More effort is needed to address the growing demand for affordable housing in the state.

16. Can education or job training programs play a role in increasing the minimum income for basic needs in Missouri?

Yes, education or job training programs can play a role in increasing the minimum income for basic needs in Missouri. By providing individuals with the necessary skills and qualifications for higher-paying jobs, these programs can help increase their earning potential and thus improve their overall income. Additionally, these programs can also provide individuals with knowledge and resources on budgeting and financial management, which can help them better manage their money and meet their basic needs more effectively. Furthermore, investing in education and job training programs can also benefit the economy by creating a more skilled workforce and promoting economic growth.

17. How do neighboring states compare to Missouri when it comes to the minimum income needed for basic needs?

There is no single set minimum income needed for basic needs in the United States, as it varies depending on factors such as cost of living and individual circumstances. However, according to a report by the National Center for Children in Poverty, Missouri has one of the lowest minimum household budgets needed for basic needs compared to neighboring states. For example, in 2018, the minimum budget for a family of four (two adults and two children) was $59,486 in Kansas, $60,716 in Illinois, $61,159 in Arkansas, and $64,741 in Kentucky. In comparison, the minimum budget for a family of four in Missouri was $56,018. It should be noted that this data is from 2018 and may have changed since then. Additionally, different sources may provide slightly different numbers due to varying methodologies and data sources used.

18. Are there any non-profit organizations or charities providing assistance for individuals or families who cannot meet their basic needs due to inadequate income in Missouri?

Yes, there are several non-profit organizations and charities in Missouri that provide assistance for individuals and families who cannot meet their basic needs due to inadequate income. Some examples include:

1. Operation Food Search: This organization works to end hunger in the St. Louis community by providing food assistance, nutrition education, and advocacy.

2. Harvesters: The Community Food Network: This organization serves the Kansas City and surrounding areas by collecting food donations and distributing them to nearly 760 community partners.

3. Community Assistance Council: Located in Independence, this organization provides emergency financial assistance, transportation services, and a food pantry for low-income families.

4. Catholic Charities of Southern Missouri: This organization offers a wide range of services including food pantries, financial assistance, utility bill aid, housing assistance, and more to those in need.

5. Ozarks Food Harvest: Serving southwest Missouri, this organization collects and distributes donated food to over 270 hunger-relief organizations in 28 counties.

6. United Way of Central Missouri: This organization works with partner agencies to provide financial stability programs such as budgeting workshops and emergency cash funds for those experiencing financial hardship.

7. Salvation Army Midland Division: This division operates several service centers throughout Missouri offering various social service programs like emergency assistance, food pantries, rental/utility help, holiday assistance programs, etc.

8. Society of St. Vincent de Paul St. Louis Council: This organization provides rent/mortgage support (among other things) for persons residing within the Archdiocese of St Louis region who are struggling financially.

It is important to note that availability of these services may vary depending on location and funding availability. Additionally, many local churches also offer support through their ministries or outreach programs. It may be helpful to contact your local government or dial 211 for more information about resources available in your specific area.

19. Has Missouri implemented any policies or initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and helping residents achieve a minimum income for basic needs?

Yes, Missouri has implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and helping residents achieve a minimum income for basic needs. These include:

1. State Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): The state of Missouri offers a version of the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, which provides a refundable tax credit to low-income working individuals and families.

2. Medicaid Expansion: In 2020, Missouri voters approved a ballot initiative to expand Medicaid coverage to low-income adults without dependent children, providing them with access to affordable healthcare.

3. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This federal program provides financial assistance and supportive services for low-income families with children under 18 years old. Missouri administers the program through its Family Support Division.

4. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): This federal program provides nutrition assistance to low-income individuals and families. The Missouri Department of Social Services administers SNAP in the state.

5. Minimum Wage Increase: In 2018, Missourians voted to raise the state’s minimum wage from $7.85 per hour to $12 per hour by 2023, which will help raise the income levels of many low-wage workers in the state.

6. Job training programs: The Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development offers various job training programs and initiatives aimed at helping residents gain skills and access better-paying jobs.

7. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This federally-funded program helps eligible low-income households with their home energy bills during the winter months.

8. Affordable Housing Initiatives: The Missouri Housing Development Commission administers various programs aimed at increasing access to affordable housing for low-income individuals and families in the state.

9. Emergency Food Assistance Program: The Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Commodities Distribution Program distributes food commodities and supplies to local food banks, pantries, shelters, senior centers, etc., helping to address food insecurity among low-income individuals and families.

10. Financial support for child care: The Child Care Subsidy program provides financial assistance for eligible low-income families with the cost of quality child care.

Overall, these policies and initiatives help provide a safety net for low-income residents in Missouri and can potentially help reduce poverty in the state. However, more work and investment are needed to effectively address the issue of poverty in the state.

20. What can be done at the state level to ensure that all residents have access to a livable income that covers their basic needs in Missouri?

1. Increase Minimum Wage: One way to ensure a livable income for all residents in Missouri is to increase the minimum wage. The current minimum wage in Missouri is $7.85 per hour, which falls below the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Raising the minimum wage can provide working individuals with a higher income and help cover their basic needs.

2. Expand Access to Affordable Housing: Housing plays a significant role in determining an individual’s livable income. Therefore, the state can invest in initiatives that increase access to affordable housing options for low-income individuals and families.

3. Implement Paid Family and Medical Leave: Many residents struggle to make ends meet when faced with unexpected medical emergencies or caring for family members. A paid family and medical leave program can provide individuals with financial support during such circumstances, ensuring a steady income while they are unable to work.

4. Provide Tax Relief for Low-Income Earners: The state can also consider implementing tax relief measures such as earned income tax credits or property tax credits for low-income earners. These measures can help alleviate the financial burden on low-wage workers and improve their overall livable income.

5. Strengthen Social Safety Net Programs: The existing social safety net programs, such as Medicaid, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), may not be enough to cover the basic needs of all residents in Missouri adequately. The state can work towards strengthening these programs by increasing eligibility criteria and benefits provided.

6. Invest in Education and Training Programs: Investing in education and training programs that equip individuals with skills needed for better-paying jobs can also help increase their livable income in the long term.

7. Encourage Economic Development: Bringing more businesses and job opportunities to Missouri can create a competitive job market with higher wages, ultimately benefiting residents’ incomes.

8. Create Opportunities for Small Businesses: Supporting small businesses can create more job opportunities and boost the local economy, leading to an increase in livable income for the residents.

9. Address Racial Disparities: It is crucial to address systemic racism and discrimination in institutions and systems that perpetuate poverty and economic inequality, leading to lower livable incomes for certain groups of residents.

10. Conduct Regular Cost of Living Surveys: The state can conduct regular cost of living surveys to determine the minimum amount required for individuals and families to afford basic needs in different regions of Missouri. This information can be used to inform policies aimed at improving livable incomes.