An in-depth analysis conducted by the Study Center of the Agency for the Development of the Chamber of Commerce of Gran Sasso (CRESA) has shed light on the complex economic situation in Abruzzo, highlighting significant challenges related to poverty. Istat data for 2022 reveals that over 59,000 families, corresponding to 11% of the total, are involved in relative poverty.
Abruzzo: Income Distribution
The average annual regional family income, set at 29,000 euros in 2021, stands at 86% of the national value. Although there has been an annual increase of 11%, Abruzzo has not yet fully recovered the value of 2019, indicating persistent economic challenges.
Abruzzo: Sources of Income
CRESA’s analysis reveals that income from dependent work prevails in the region, constituting 37.6% of the family’s net income. In contrast, income from autonomous work is significantly lower, representing 27.4% of income. Pensions and public transfers contribute 23.6% to family income.
Relative Poverty and Pension Incomes
Relative poverty involves families whose consumption is equal to or less than a set threshold. In 2022, over 35 people out of 100 in Abruzzo are at risk of poverty or social exclusion. The average per capita amount of pension incomes stands at 18,100 euros, with 11.1% of pensioners receiving less than 500 euros per month.
Income Distribution and Inequality
CRESA’s analysis emphasizes that 50% of Abruzzo families have an income not exceeding 23,300 euros. However, regional disparity is less pronounced compared to the North, Center, and Islands. Relative poverty affects over 59,700 families, accounting for 14% of the population.
Abruzzo: Regional Inequality
To assess inequality in income distribution, consider that the wealthiest 20% in Abruzzo has an income four and a half times that of the poorest 20%. Although less pronounced than in the North, Center, and Islands, this data still indicates significant inequality.
Evaluation of Economic Resources
32% of Abruzzo families consider economic resources to be absolutely insufficient or scarce, while 66% judge them to be adequate. Compared to other regions, Abruzzo shows a significant decline in families considering themselves in difficulty.
Year-on-Year Changes
Regarding the previous year, 39% of families believe their economic condition has worsened. However, 9% report an improvement. Abruzzo presents better values than the South but worse than Italy in terms of the ability to make ends meet and face unexpected expenses.
Economic and Housing Difficulties
28% of Abruzzo families have more than some difficulty making ends meet, while only 4% can do so easily. 44% have problems facing unexpected expenses, and 40% cannot save. Despite these data, Abruzzo ranks among the most virtuous regions in Italy in terms of saving capacity.
The housing situation in Abruzzo is better than the rest of the country. 86.7% of families own a property, and the dwellings are equipped with heating systems, adequate dimensions, and are in good condition. However, some families express concern about excessive housing-related expenses.
