1. Rural Poverty in Texas
• Poverty Rate in Rural Texas: According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 15-20% of people living in rural Texas are below the poverty line, which is higher than the state average.
• Rural Household Income: The median household income in rural Texas is lower than in urban areas, often ranging between $35,000 and $45,000 per year, compared to the statewide median of around $60,000.
2. Low-Income Population in Texas
• Low-Income Households: A significant portion of the population in Texas, particularly in rural areas, qualifies as low-income. According to data from the Texas Demographic Center, about 40% of rural households in Texas fall into the low-income category.
• Energy Burden: Many low-income households in Texas spend a disproportionate amount of their income on energy costs, with some estimates suggesting up to 20-30% of income goes towards utilities.
3. Population in Rural Texas Communities
• Rural Population: Approximately 4.8 million people live in rural areas in Texas, accounting for about 17% of the state’s total population. These communities are spread across various regions, including the Panhandle, West Texas, and the Rio Grande Valley.
• Access to Resources: Rural communities often have limited access to essential services, including affordable energy, making them particularly vulnerable to energy poverty.
4. Map of Rural Texas
• Poverty Rate: The poverty rate in rural Texas stands at 17.3%, which is significantly higher than the 13.9% in urban areas. This disparity highlights the economic struggles that many rural communities face, making them prime areas for initiatives like renewable energy projects that can generate jobs and reduce costs for residents.
• Income Levels: The average per capita income in rural Texas is $50,113, which is lower than the urban average of $59,865. Lower income levels can exacerbate issues related to energy costs, making affordable renewable energy solutions critical in these areas
