Philadelphia Returns to Top of Big-City Poverty RankingsPhiladelphia’s Poverty Stagnation Raises Alarm as Support Faces CutsPhiladelphia’s Poverty Rate Shows the Need for Affordability Action
Census data released on October 30 put Philadelphia’s 2025 poverty rate at 20.4%, the highest among large U.S. cities. New York and Houston tied at 17.7%.Census data released on October 30 put Philadelphia’s poverty rate at 20.4%, the highest among large U.S. cities. The figures come as federal assistance cuts and rising costs add pressure on low-income households.Philadelphia recorded a 20.4% poverty rate in 2025, the highest among large U.S. cities, Census data released on October 30 showed. The city’s mayor cited the burden of rising costs on residents.