Lewiston-Auburn tops nation for income inequality
Lewiston-Auburn has one of the largest income gaps between the rich and poor in the country, according to a new report that focuses on the growing divide.
The Lewiston Sun Journal reported that the report from the United States Conference of Mayors found that Lewiston-Auburn only ranked below nine other communities in the U.S. when it comes to income inequality.
The report found that Lewiston-Auburn’s average income grew by 17% over a seven-year period, while median income only grew by 3% — which the report said indicates that “more and more income is being concentrated among the richer households.”
The nationwide average income grew by 14% while the median income increased by 11%, the report said. The annual median income for Lewiston-Auburn in 2012 was $44,297, compared to $46,709 in Maine and $51,371 nationwide.
Auburn Mayor Jonathan LaBonte told the Sun Journal that the report could be a reflection of high-wage earners moving to the area for more affordable real estate, new Mainers or immigrants also moving there before obtaining the skills or education needed to earn more.
He said it could also indicate that Lewiston-Auburn hasn’t done enough to attract smaller companies.
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