ALICE Households

ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. It describes households that earn more than the federal poverty level but still do not earn enough to cover basic living costs. For many families, the cost of living rises faster than wages. As a result, some households struggle to meet everyday needs such as housing, food, transportation, child care, health care and technology.

How This Information Helps

When money is tight, families may face difficult choices. They may need to decide between paying rent or covering child care, filling a prescription or repairing a car. These choices can affect stability for families and communities.

Understanding where ALICE households live helps communities see where support may be helpful. This information can guide programs, services and planning that strengthen stability for working families.

For more information about ALICE households in Virginia, visit the United for ALICE Research Center.