Racial and ethnic disparities in economic outcomes across U.S. regions

As measured by education, employment, and income in regions across the U.S., economic success is limited by factors of race or ethnicity, most clearly for black and Hispanic residents. Especially relative to peer regions, metropolitan Chicago needs to remove barriers to residents' economic prospects, health, and overall quality of life. Disrupting these inequitable patterns is essential to achieve "inclusive growth": Our region as a whole simply cannot thrive when so many people and places are left behind.

Use this interactive chart to compare regions' 2016 educational attainment, unemployment, and household income by race or ethnicity.

ON TO 2050 Recommendations

Regions that offer economic opportunity for residents regardless of race, income, or background enjoy longer, stronger periods of prosperity and fewer, shorter periods of stagnation. The ON TO 2050 comprehensive plan contains strategies for bringing inclusive growth to all seven counties and 284 communities of metropolitan Chicago. Inclusive growth will require multiple, sustained initiatives to tackle the many issues that perpetuate economic inequality and impair regional prosperity.