New Census data reveals Vicksburg income trends, gender pay gaps, and reliance on Social Security

VICKSBURG, Miss. by Aylssa Lick (VDN) – A new U.S. Census Bureau data tool sheds light on the sources of income for various population groups, revealing the critical role Social Security plays for older adults, persistent gender pay disparities, and shifting income sources for residents with disabilities.

For many older adults in Vicksburg, Social Security is a primary source of income. According to national data from the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 70% of older adults living in poverty rely on Social Security benefits, while 91% of those above the poverty line receive support from the program.

Locally, the median household income in Vicksburg stands at $42,484, with a per capita income of $27,881. About 27.9% of residents live below the poverty line, a rate significantly higher than the national average. Many older residents in Warren County depend on Social Security as their primary or sole source of income, particularly as living expenses rise. Fifty-two percent of residents age 65 and older live above the poverty line but still struggle to make ends meet.

Women in Vicksburg continue to earn less than men, even with similar educational backgrounds. Nationally, women working full time earned a median salary of $55,240 in 2022, compared to $66,790 for men. The wage gap—where women earn about 83 cents for every dollar men earn—also affects Vicksburg’s workforce, particularly in education, health care and local government.

The Census Bureau found that even among individuals with bachelor’s degrees, earnings varied by gender, pointing to systemic factors such as occupational segregation and industry-specific disparities. Addressing these gaps is seen as a crucial step toward improving economic equity in the region.

The Census Bureau also highlighted shifting income dynamics for adults with disabilities, a group that includes many Vicksburg residents. According to the latest figures, 16.9% of residents under age 65 in Vicksburg have a disability. Disability prevalence has increased among those over 40, leading to greater reliance on Social Security Disability Insurance and other aid programs. As these individuals age, income sources shift from employment wages to government benefits, impacting overall economic stability.

Residents can explore the Census Bureau’s new data tool at census.gov for a detailed breakdown of income trends.