The Inclusive Economy Poll

While most respondents report adequate access to basic needs, such as clean air, reliable power, and transportation, there are gaps in access to other basic needs, especially in rural areas. Food access remains a critical issue, with almost one-quarter of respondents indicating some level of food insecurity. There are notable disparities in access to high-speed internet, and those in rural counties are less likely to report adequate access. People of color are more likely to say they have experienced workplace discrimination due to their race or ethnicity than their peers.

While most people report having basic financial literacy and access to financial tools, such as savings and retirement accounts, this is less likely for those making less than $50,000. The majority of respondents are somewhat or very confident in their ability to manage financial tasks, such as managing a household budget or credit card debt. However, respondents are split, nearly half and half, about whether they think they have entrepreneurial skills and abilities. About forty percent would take a chance and set up their own business.

According to poll findings, almost half of Capital Region residents say that jobs are hard to find, especially those in lower income categories, and 28% of workers are not making a living wage. Those in rural areas are less likely to report access to adequate benefits however, overall, two-thirds or more report access to a wide range of benefits, like health, sick time, and family leave. There is an ample amount of interest in career transition or skill attainment, with most of the respondents (82%) indicating they would be interested in increasing their job skills. The findings in this section underscore the importance of investing in initiatives and projects that increase the availability of and pathways to quality jobs, which is the primary goal of We Prosper Together.

Poll findings show that weathering financial hardship depends partially on household income. Fifty percent of those who make less than $50,000 do not have any savings, and 61% of those in the same income bracket report that they would need assistance covering a $400 emergency expense. A positive outlook for prosperity in the future is also an important indicator of economic stability and sustainability. While many feel the future will be better, those who make less money or live in rural locations are less optimistic.

Responses indicate that an inclusive and equitable economy is at the forefront of the region’s collective vision. The top issue cited by respondents, when asked about their level of concern for economic issues, is ensuring all community members benefit from the economy. Respondents are most likely to saya lack of affordable housing gets in the way of financial well-being for families. They also reported high costs of other basic needs, such as healthcare and childcare, as well as the availability of quality jobs, as a barrier, especially for communities of color and those with lower incomes. Environmental sustainability also emerged at the top, with a clean and green economy noted as a major concern, especially for those in the Nevada & Tahoe Basin area.