Persistent Low-Income Counties in Nonmetro America. Rural Development Research Report No. 12.

In the period from 1950 to 1970, there were 298 persistent low-income (PLI) counties in the United States, but between 1970 and 1975, 43 counties left the persistent low-income status (LPLI) due to private sector influence and earnings from mining and agriculture. LPLI counties were largely located in Georgia, Arkansas, and Kentucky. Most PLI counties were located in the South, and had small populations, a large percentage of which was Black. Compared to nonmetropolitan averages, PLI counties in 1969 had a lower per capita income, lower average earnings and were more dependent on transfer payments and proprietors' income, especially from farms. A smaller percentage of the PLI population were wage and salary employees. PLI counties evidenced low family and health status, yet despite more severe conditions residents were less alienated. Although PLI and LPLI counties depended on the same three industries (manufacturing, agriculture, government), the LPLI counties' greatest dependence was on agriculture while that of PLI counties was on government. Counties depending on mining may make future income gains, but those depending on agriculture have a less certain future. PLI counties for 1969-1975 are listed by state. (SB)