Explore the Data

Poverty and Race – Percent

People of color experience higher rates of poverty in Lincoln

Poverty rates vary by race and ethnicity. These rates increased for most racial and ethnic groups following the COVID-19 pandemic but are now closer to the rates seen in 2019.

• The rate of poverty among Black or African American residents was 28% in 2023, compared to 25% in 2018 (2019 data not available for this group).
  • This rate has not returned to pre-pandemic levels.
  • Black or African American residents consistently face the highest poverty rates in Lincoln.
• The rate of poverty among Latino/a or Hispanic residents was 17% in 2023, compared to 20% in 2019.
• The rate of poverty among residents identifying as two or more races was 15% in 2023, compared to 17% in 2019.
• The rate of poverty among Asian residents was 13% in 2023, compared to 11% in 2019.
• The rate of poverty among White residents was 11% in 2023, compared to 10% in 2019.

Given Lincoln’s increasingly diverse population, the high poverty rates among people of color are cause for concern.

Notes

U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 1-year estimates, Table S1701.

Chart includes race/ethnic groups that make up 1% or more of Lincoln’s population. Estimates unavailable in 2019 for Black/African American and in 2020 for all groups.