ALICE, Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed, places a spotlight on a large population of hardworking residents who work at low-paying jobs, have little or no savings, and are one emergency away from falling into poverty.
The United Way ALICE Report is the most comprehensive depiction of financial needs in the state to date, using data from a variety of sources, including the US Census. Data is available on the state, county and municipal level. The report unveils new measures, based on present-day income levels and expenses that show how many Iowa workers are struggling financially, and why.
ALICE represents a growing number of individuals and families who are working but are unable to afford the basic necessities of housing, food, childcare, health care and transportation. Although ALICE is earning income, pays taxes and contributes to Iowa’s economy, the household income is not enough to meet a basic survival budget in these categories.
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2025 ALICE Report Update
Iowa trends in the recent report:
- Over the last decade, wage increases are not enough to keep up with the cost of household basics;
- The number of families experiencing financial hardship has increased;
- Households headed by people over age 65 showed the most substantial increase in number of households living below the ALICE Threshold;
- Housing costs continue to be a challenge in Iowa, 65% of all renter households below the ALICE Threshold were rent burdened (paying more than 30% of their income on rent and utilities).
Download the 2025 Report
Download the 2024 Report
Download the 2023 Report
The ALICE Report for Iowa is presented in partnership with the Green State Foundation
