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Experts Say U.S. Poverty Line Underestimates Real Needs

11/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Michael W. Green calculated that a family of four needs at least $136,500 annually to afford housing, health care, child care, and other necessities.
The U.S. poverty line is $32,150, set by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Green argues that the poverty line should be over four times higher.
He contends that most American households are living in poverty by his standard.

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Story summary

Michael W. Green calculated that a family of four needs at least $136,500 annually to afford housing, health care, child care, and other necessities.
The U.S. poverty line is $32,150, set by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Green argues that the poverty line should be over four times higher.
He contends that most American households are living in poverty by his standard.