From The Boston Globe · · 1m 40s
Massachusetts Latinos Struggle with Economic Barriers
Massachusetts Latinos face financial instability despite population growth, with low net wealth and limited career pathways.
In brief
Massachusetts Latinos face financial instability despite population growth, with low net wealth and limited career pathways. Massachusetts Latinos have the lowest net wealth in the state, with median family net worth at $1,200 and only one-third able to cover a $400 emergency expense. Originally reported by The Boston…
Katheryn Gravenhorst's Career Struggle
Katheryn Gravenhorst, 24, works as a Dunkin’ shift manager after graduating with a master’s in economics.
“I was trying to build my resume, but at the same time I was trying to survive.”
Latino Population Growth in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Latinos now number over 1 million residents, with more than half from Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic.
Low Net Wealth for Latino Families
Latino families in Massachusetts have a median net wealth of $1,200, with two-thirds unable to cover a $400 emergency expense.
Educational Barriers for Latinos
Only one-quarter of Latinos in Massachusetts have bachelor’s degrees, making college a barrier to middle-class wages.
Economic Disparities in Massachusetts
Latino families earn less than $63,000 annually on average, below Black, white, and Asian employees with similar education.
Limited Job Opportunities for Latinos
92 percent of middle-class jobs require a college degree, but few Latinos have the credentials to qualify.
Systemic Challenges for Latino Success
Latino families face systemic barriers including limited inheritance, difficulty accessing loans, and low expectations in schools.
Sandra Gravenhorst's Story
Sandra Gravenhorst, 53, owns a home and runs a tax business after working at her cousin’s wire transfer business.
“I’m comfortable, thanks God.”
Claudia Osirio's Struggle
Claudia Osirio, 54, works as an assistant director at a social services nonprofit but earns only $20 an hour.
Future Challenges for Latinos
Latino families in Massachusetts face rising costs and limited pathways to middle-class earnings without college degrees.
In short
Massachusetts Latinos have the lowest net wealth in the state, with median family net worth at $1,200 and only one-third able to cover a $400 emergency expense.
