Iowa is in the top ten nationwide for economic security and affordability, according to the latest Economic Security Scorecard. The Scorecard grades states on their potential to improve the financial security of workers, families and retirees by looking at income, job quality, education and training, savings and assets, and supports.
Iowa is doing a good job when it comes to the affordability of rent, homeownership and health care. Expanding our state Earned Income Tax Credit this year is also a plus. However, the Scorecard shows we can do more to ensure the financial security of Iowans through job quality, transportation, education and training.
Reports from the Economic Security Institute have shown that millions of Americans lack financial security, with 53 percent of seniors and 43 percent of families unable to cover such basic expenses as childcare, housing, health care and transportation. They also suggest that proactive investment in workers, families and seniors supports economic growth, stabilizes families and communities, and expands the middle class.
Check out the full Economic Security Scorecard and how Iowa ranks at www.wowonline.org/the-economic-security-scorecard.