ALICE: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed
We’re excited to share that the United for ALICE initiative has released its 2025 State of Michigan Report — and the findings have important implications for our work in Livingston County.
This new report is based on data collected in 2023 and provides a comprehensive look at the financial challenges many households in our community continue to face.
As a reminder, ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — these are households that earn more than the Federal Poverty Level but still struggle to afford the basic cost of living.
Key Highlights for Livingston County:
- 28% of households fall below the ALICE Threshold, which includes both ALICE and poverty-level households.
- While this percentage is unchanged from the previous year, the composition has shifted:
- 2024 Report: 23% ALICE + 5% in poverty
- 2025 Report: 21% ALICE + 7% in poverty
Although small, this shift is a clear reminder that while some families are making gains, many continue to fall behind, especially as wages struggle to keep pace with rising costs in housing, childcare, food, transportation, health care, and even basic technology like smartphones.
What Does It Cost to Survive in Livingston County?
The Household Survival Budget outlines the minimum income required to meet basic needs — without room for savings or unexpected expenses.
- Single Adult (age 18–64):
- Michigan average: $28,740
- Livingston County: $32,952
- Family of Four (2 adults, 1 preschooler, 1 school-aged child):
- Michigan average: $69,900
- Livingston County: $80,484
For long-term financial security, families must meet the Household Stability Budget:
- Single Adult in Livingston County: $47,732
- Family of Four in Livingston County: $127,272
Learn More!
- To learn more about ALICE in Livingston County, click here.
- To view the full State of Michigan report, click here.
- Questions regarding work supporting ALICE? Contact Amber Schroeder, aschroeder@lcunitedway.org.