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The Real Cost Measure

The Real Cost Measure, created by United Ways of California, goes beyond the outdated federal poverty line to show what it really takes for families to make ends meet. It looks at the actual cost of living—housing, food, childcare, healthcare, and more—across different regions in California.
Turns out, a lot more families are struggling than official numbers suggest. This tool helps shine a light on economic hardship and sparks conversations about solutions. Whether you’re a policymaker, advocate, or just curious, the Real Cost Measure gives a clearer picture of what financial stability really looks like in California today.

Does your household fall below the Real Cost Measure in San Luis Obispo County?

Click button, then scroll to “Interactive Household Budgets Calculator”
REAL COST CALCULATOR

31%

of SLO County households do not earn sufficient income to meet basic needs

$98,196

Average annual budget for a four-person household to make ends meet in SLO County

97%

of SLO County households below Real Cost Measure have at least one working adult

Sample Household Budgets in SLO County

2023 Full Report

The Real Cost Measure - SLO County
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