Rochester Anti-Poverty Initiative Notes 21% Decline

Poverty in Rochester has declined since the establishment of the Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative, from 34% in 2014 to 27% in 2023. Comparable cities in New York State have also seen declines, but Rochester’s 21% decrease topped both Buffalo (13%) and Syracuse (15%).

CGR has supported RMAPI with data and analysis since its inception and over the last six months developed a Data Book and online Dashboard encompassing 36 mobility metrics to track progress and inform decision-making toward increased upward mobility for residents. The Data Book explains RMAPI’s shift from a narrow focus on reducing poverty to a broader purpose to boost upward mobility and includes information for each metric on factors that support and hinder progress. Eleven of the metrics were selected for the online Dashboard.

CGR President Erika Rosenberg serves as chair of RMAPI’s Shared Measurement and Impact Working Group. Contact her for more information on using data to boost upward mobility.

April 15, 2025 CGR Briefs Edition