What is ALICE?

ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.We all know someone who is ALICE. ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed households that earn more than the Federal Poverty Level but still do not earn enough to afford the basic necessities where they live. These are the hardworking individuals and families who keep our communities running every day. Often working two jobs they are teachers, health care workers, childcare providers, retail associates, first responders, hospitality staff, and countless others whose wages often fail to keep pace with the rising cost of living. Because of this financial gap, ALICE households are forced to make impossible decisions every month. Choosing between paying rent or keeping the lights on, affording child care or staying employed, filling a prescription or buying groceries. These aren't occasional hardships; they're ongoing realities that affect families throughout Illinois. The ALICE research provides a clearer picture of financial hardship by calculating the true cost of essential household expenses in every county. Through the Household Survival Budget, United For ALICE measures what it actually takes for different household types to meet their basic needs, providing communities with reliable local data to guide decisions and investments.

Housing

Housing continues to be one of the largest expenses impacting ALICE households.

Child Care

Quality child care remains one of the biggest barriers to financial stability.

Employment

Employment alone is not always enough for families to afford basic necessities.

Community Data

Local ALICE data helps organizations target programs where they are needed most.