Hometown Prosperity

Increasing Opportunity for DC's Low-Income Working Families

By DC Fiscal Policy Institute, DC Appleseed

January 31, 2008

Dcfpi Hometown Prosperity cover

Read or Download the Report

64-page PDF

In This Report, You’ll Learn

  • The definition of “working family.”
  • Factors leading to the working poor in DC remaining poor during an economic upturn.
  • Four recommendations that will help DC’s working poor reap the benefits of the revitalized District economy.
  • Why higher education may be a key factor in helping DC's poor find sustainable work.
  • How enforcing District education and employment policies could make a huge difference for families.
  • Why tax relief reform is an important issue for the District.

About This Report

Summary

The benefits of Washington, DC’s growing economic prosperity have bypassed the District’s working poor families. This fact-filled report examines why the District’s economic recovery has eluded many residents and what can be done about it. Several strategic goals and their ongoing policies and activities are presented with specific policy recommendations designed to bolster working poor families. 

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

One factor keeping DC working families poor is the overly-educated labor market

In 2000, 54% of the jobs in the District were held by those with a Bachelors degree or higher, while the overall US average was only 28%. One reason: The District attracts large numbers of young, college-educated workers producing a “crowd-out” factor. While nationally only 15% of administrative workers have a college degree, in DC that figure is 30%.

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations