The Wayne County Foundation and Forward Wayne County (FWC) have released the 2022 County Indicator Report. The report gathers key community indicators from a variety of sources in one location.
Rebecca Gilliam, Executive Director for the Foundation said, “We are pleased to share this information with our partners, communities, and residents.”
“This report is not intended to be conclusive, but rather serve as a resource for information, grant applications, and more.”
Highlights from the 2022 Report:
- The county population decreased 3.5% from 2010, 1% less than estimated. The report explains actual census data versus estimated data.
- Unemployment rate dropped to 2.9% from 4.9% in 2021. In addition, employers are adding jobs with increased wages.
- The poverty level for Wayne County dropped a tenth of a percent. This seems insignificant. However, with COVID impacts, it has continued to decline.
- Total free and reduced lunch came down nearly 2%. This correlates to the lower poverty rate as well as increase in household income.
- There are concerns on health outcomes and health factors. Wayne County dropped four spots to 77th out of 92 Indiana counties in Health Factors per County Health Rankings.
- Per capita personal income increased in Wayne County to $45,499. Unfortunately, it’s still less than the State average/US average.
- Medium home value in Wayne County has increased to more than $100,000.
- Homeownership has increased nearly 4%. This shows economic mobility of our residents.
Not all information has been updated as of the release of this report, as discovered by further research. COVID impacts and other factors have delayed reporting on ALICE information and some educational attainment rates. Information will be updated as it becomes available.
Acacia St. John, Program Director for Forward Wayne County added. “Overall, we are doing well in certain areas. But, it also shows we have some work to do as a county. We remained committed with our partners to keep working on making Wayne County a great place to live, work, and play.”
