Neighbor News
Raleigh Ranks as #10 Most Equitable City by Racial Pay Gap
A new study compares the median income for minorities in major U.S. cities.
We’ve been chasing the income gap for years, but despite increased awareness, equality campaigns, and corporate initiatives, there are still substantial differences in the rates minorities are paid. This is an issue that affects the globe, though it’s particularly pronounced in some countries, states, and cities more so than others.
A recent study by the United Way of the National Capital Area explored the median income for various minority groups, and compared it to that of the opposing majority population. They then calculated the percentage difference between the two to estimate the pay gap. By doing this, they were able to map out income inequality across America.
The good news for Raleigh locals is that the pay gap between white people and racial minorities in Raleigh ranks us in the top 10 most equitable cities in the US by this measure. The bad news is the gap is still present and a relevant issue worth addressing.
Find out what's happening in Raleighfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
In Raleigh, white people make roughly 19% than the average person of color. While that’s not as drastic of a gap as Bridgeport, Connecticut, where minorities make half of the average white person’s income, it’s still a substantial gap. Phoenix, Arizona has the lowest gap in the nation with white people making just 4% more than the average minority. According to the data, there is no US city where minorities make more than their white counterparts, nor is there one where it’s perfectly equal.
Continuing the trend, Durham makes the list as the #4 most equitable city when looking at the gender pay disparity. Durham represents NC behind Fort Myers, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Los Angeles, California. In Durham, men make approximately 11% more than women, compared to the national average of 25%.
Find out what's happening in Raleighfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Raleigh does not appear on the list of the top 10 most equitable cities by gender pay, though North Carolina as a whole boasts a relatively low overall gender pay gap of 17%.
This data shows that there is certainly still work to do. However, it’s optimistic that our state is on track with, if not out-performing, the nation when it comes to equality.