One Financial Burden Away from Crisis: New Research Shows 41% of North Carolinians Cannot Afford Basic Needs

Released on June 10, 2026, a new update to The State of ALICE report in North Carolina finds that 1,816,053 households — 41% of all households in the state — were unable to afford the basic cost of living in 2024. Combining households in poverty with ALICE households (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), the report shows that millions of working families are one emergency away from crisis. This is because many essential jobs do not pay enough; for example, 53% of Cooks and 51% of Cashiers live in households below the ALICE Threshold. “ALICE is not a single story — it’s our neighbors, coworkers, and friends. This report gives us the data to act. When we invest in housing, childcare, living wages, and targeted tax support, we strengthen families and the entire North Carolina economy,” says Sally Gordon, Director of Mission Advancement at United Way of North Carolina. About the Report

The State of ALICE in North Carolina: 2026 Update on Financial Hardship is produced by United For ALICE in partnership with United Way of North Carolina. The report uses county-level Household Survival Budgets and American Community Survey data to measure how many households cannot afford the basics in their local communities. For interactive maps, county reports, and tools to explore ALICE by district, visit https://www.unitedforalice.org/north-carolina Once you click on the website above, click on 2026 Report to download your copy of the new ALICE report.