Since 1980 and since the end of the Great Recession, income inequality has worsened, with the top 1 percent reaping a disproportionate share of Oregon’s economic growth. By one key measure — the income accruing to the top one-tenth of 1 percent of Oregon earners[1], roughly 1,700 households in all of Oregon — income inequality in Oregon stands just a hair below its all-time high.

Confronting income inequality is perhaps the greatest challenge facing Oregon today. A growing body of research indicates that income inequality not only limits the ability of working families to get ahead, but also undermines economic growth.[2] Lawmakers must enact policies that reduce income inequality to ensure all Oregonians share in economic opportunity.

Full article is available as a PDF: Outsized Gains at the Top Worsen Oregon Income Inequality