Study: Charlotte residents have harder time rising to higher income level

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Local groups came together Tuesday to look at a recent study that found the odds of rising to another income level in Charlotte is lower compared to most other cities.

According to a recent study, Charlotte is one of the metropolitan areas where it's most difficult for lower-income households to rise into the middle class and beyond.

The data shows that climbing the income ladder happens less often in the Southeast and Midwest, with the odds notably low in Charlotte, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Detroit and Columbus.

In contrast, some of the highest rates are in the Northeast and West, including Salt Lake City, many parts of California, Boston and New York.

Researchers identified several broad factors that appeared to affect income mobility, including the size and dispersion of the middle class.

Income mobility was higher in areas with more two-parent households, better schools, and more civic engagement, including membership in religious and community groups.

"There's a huge number of families that find themselves in a situation where one thing knocks them into poverty, and it can be really difficult to climb back up out of that," said Tovi Martin with Crisis Assistance Ministry.

For a link to the study, click here.

The Women's Impact Fund of Charlotte hosted the discussion about the research Tuesday at UNC Charlotte-Center City. Click here for that link.

WSOC