Despite low unemployment rates and abundant job opportunities in Iowa, there is a significant portion of the population that holds a pessimistic outlook on the state of the economy. In this episode of River to River, we delve into the reasons behind this disparity.
Anne Villamil, an economist from the University of Iowa, leads the discussion and provides insight into the various metrics used to gauge economic well-being. She explains that while unemployment rates are low, many Iowans are still struggling to cover basic living expenses. This is due in part to stagnant wages and a lack of access to affordable healthcare.
Sean Finn from Common Good Iowa shares findings from the nonprofit’s recent report, revealing that one out of every six full-time workers in Iowa is struggling to cover basic living expenses. He explains that this number is even higher for certain demographics, such as low-income families and people of color.
Through their expertise, Villamil and Finn shed light on the economic challenges facing many Iowans, offering valuable perspectives on why the economy may not be perceived as positively as the statistics suggest. They emphasize the need for policymakers to address these issues in order to create a more equitable economy for all Iowans.