Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Strategist Proposes $136K Poverty Line for Families of Four

12/10/2025

25 4

Summary

Story summary

Michael Green, a strategist, argues the current U.S. poverty line is outdated and proposes a new threshold of $136,500 for a family of four based on current living costs.
The poverty line was established in 1963 and is now set at just over $32,000 for a family of four.
Green notes rising costs in childcare, housing, and healthcare, while others say the higher threshold overstates hardship for many families.

1 of 1

Story summary

Michael Green, a strategist, argues the current U.S. poverty line is outdated and proposes a new threshold of $136,500 for a family of four based on current living costs.
The poverty line was established in 1963 and is now set at just over $32,000 for a family of four.
Green notes rising costs in childcare, housing, and healthcare, while others say the higher threshold overstates hardship for many families.