Another and some say more realistic view of the number of people on or at the edge of poverty are those living at 200% of the official poverty rate.  In Pierce County, the ACS 5-year Estimate tells us that 27% (202,280) of residents were living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level in 2009 compared to 26% in 2000, and 28.4% in 1990.  A family of four would have to be earning $44,700 to be at 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.  The average wage per job in 2009 in Pierce County was $44,383.

Comparing similar urban counties and Washington State as a whole, according to the 2005-2009 ACS 5-year Estimates:

• Snohomish County: 21% of residents living below 200% of the federal poverty level
• Spokane County: 32% of residents living below 200% of the federal poverty level.
• Washington State: 28% of residents living below 200% of the federal poverty level.

Source: 2000 Census and 2005-2009 (5-year Estimate) American Community Survey