The national official poverty rate (11.1%) was lower than the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) (12.9%) in 2023, according to the U.S. Census Bureau's report, Poverty in the United States: 2023, released on Tuesday. [US Census Bureau]

However, an analysis of 3-year averages of poverty rates by states shows the SPM rate was lower than the official rate in 32 states.

The two poverty measures provide distinct indicators of U.S. economic well-being.

The SPM broadens the official poverty measure by accounting for government programs designed to assist low-income families that are not included in the official poverty measure while also including federal and state taxes and necessary expenses.

Continue reading to learn more about the national and statewide SPM rates.

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