With such grim economic data for Youngstown, it’s a very tough wonder as to why there doesn’t seem to be an imperative to take some meaningful measures to turn the tide. People are suffering, and the opportunities are extremely scarce for anyone who doesn’t want to leave Youngstown, or who can’t even if they wanted to.
While many of the leaders and community voices often make Facebook posts and public statements shaming those who opt to leave for greener pastures, or places where they can manifest their greatness, utilize their degrees, flex their skills, or just to go anywhere but further down—they offer nothing as an incentive or even point to any legitimate reason to remain in Youngstown.
The following paragraphs are from data about Youngstown in a few, but key, economic metrics. While Youngstown Forward has as its sole mission to facilitate ways and come up with ideas that can offer an exit ramp from this highway to destruction, it’s also hopeful that some key people, whether they are city government officials, county officials, or business leaders with connections, pull and wherewithal, feel the gravity of this situation. It won’t be long before the Youngstown population drain becomes so impactful that it loses it’s MSA status, and the funding that comes along with it, further exacerbating the abysmal economic condition of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley.
While it’s doubtful that the current crop of leaders will do anything meaningful, if they are even able to understand what there is to do or that there is something to do, the local elections will be here in a little over a year. Who will step up and adopt new ideas, such as the Youngstown Technology Initiative? Who will challenge the current guard and take the wheel of this ship that is headed into choppier waters as the years go by? Hopefully you know that you have to need to take part in these local elections if you want to enact some change in the Mahoning Valley.
Here are some of the serious economic conditions of Youngstown to consider:
Median Household Income
The median household income in Youngstown, Ohio, is approximately $34,295. This is significantly lower than the median household income for the state of Ohio, which stands at about $66,990.
Per Capita Income: The per capita income in Youngstown is around $20,466, which is also below the state average, Which as of July 2024, the average per capita income in Ohio was $37,729.
This report also shows some more data points like the amount of children in poverty as well as seniors, marriage rate (which is well low and correlative to poverty, btw), educational level stats, which btw, only 15% of Youngstowners have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
These figures reflect the economic challenges faced by residents of Youngstown, highlighting a disparity between the city and broader state averages.
Here are some of the things to highlight (if I can even use that word, as they are indeed not highlights):
Low Household and Per Capita Income
With a median household income of around $34,295 and a per capita income of $20,466, Youngstown’s income levels are considerably lower than both the state average and the broader Youngstown-Warren-Boardman metro area. This suggests that Youngstown is economically disadvantaged compared to other parts of Ohio. The income gap indicates limited economic opportunities and highlights the need for targeted economic development
High Poverty Rates
The income data aligns with Youngstown’s high poverty rate of 34.5%, more than double the state average. This suggests systemic economic issues such as limited access to well-paying jobs, a declining industrial base, and educational challenges. The high poverty rate is likely contributing to the city’s stagnant economic growth and influencing migration patterns, as residents may move elsewhere in search of better opportunities
Dominant Employment Sectors
Key industries in Youngstown include healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. However, these sectors often provide modest wages and limited upward mobility compared to industries like finance or technology, contributing to the area’s low income levels
The data suggests that revitalization efforts need to focus on both improving educational outcomes and attracting diverse industries that offer higher wages. Investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and incentives for businesses could be crucial in narrowing the income gap.
In summary, while Youngstown remains an economically struggling city, these insights highlight potential areas for policy interventions that could improve the economic situation over time.
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