Report Finds Rising Poverty in Greater Houston

The Kinder Institute reveals a "stunning trend" of poverty spreading around Houston.

1 minute read

November 15, 2016, 6:00 AM PST

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Ryan Holeywell shares the results of a new study into the expanding footprint of poverty [pdf] in the region anchored by Houston, Texas—a region even very recently "seen as an economic juggernaut and perhaps a model for cities in the U.S. Sun Belt."

In Harris County, which surrounds Houston, we see a troubling trend: Poverty is on the rise. The poverty rate here increased from 10 percent in 1980 to 17 percent today.

The poverty data breaks down to census tract level. "Today, 39 percent of the census tracts in Harris County are classified as 'high-poverty,'" writes Holleywell, adding that the rate it which Houston's high poverty are growing is twice as fast as the national average.

Supplementing the narrative presented by Holleywell are an infographic and several maps of poverty concentration and class and income diversity in Harris County.

Monday, November 14, 2016 in The Houston Chronicle

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Small rural USPS post office in manufactured one-story grey building with American flag in front.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes

Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

February 12, 2025 - Cowboy State Daily

Chicago

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

April 8 - 2TheAdvocate.com

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog

Military humvee driving through gate at Fort Indiantown Gap Natl Guard training center in Pennsylvania surrounded by winter trees and dead leaves.

Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species

The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.

February 24 - Esri Blog