Category: Economy

Measuring Prosperity: Gross Domestic Product

Tennessee’s Total GDP Grew Faster than Most Other States’ After the Great Recession

While GDP offers valuable insight into Tennessee’s economy, there are many aspects of economic well-being it does not capture.

Measuring Prosperity: Labor Force Participation

Tennessee’s Labor Force Does Not Include All Adults

Tennessee’s labor force participation rate is consistently lower than the national average, but the gap has narrowed in recent years.

Measuring Prosperity: The Unemployment Rate

Tennessee’s Unemployment Rate Reached an Historic Low in 2019

The unemployment rate measures the share of Tennessee’s labor force without a job, but not all working-age adults count as “in the labor force.”

Measuring Prosperity: Poverty

Tennessee’s Poverty Rates Have Trended Downward in Recent Years

We measure poverty to gain insights into how many people have trouble meeting their basic needs.

Measuring Prosperity: Personal and Household Income

Tennesseans’ Incomes Reached Historic Highs in 2018 but Remained Below National Averages

Measures of household and personal income gauge the financial support Tennessee residents have from wages and some – but not all – other sources.

What Will the Coronavirus Recession Mean for Tennessee’s Budget?

The pandemic has serious health and economic effects, yet Tennessee still has to balance its budget. These are the challenges policymakers face and the tools they have right now.

2018 Income, Poverty, Education, and Insurance Coverage in Tennessee’s 95 Counties

Tennessee Children Living In Poverty (2014-2018)

Census data for Tennessee’s 95 counties continue to show large differences in household income, poverty, education level, and health insurance coverage.

The Roots of a Thriving Tennessee

Families, businesses, and our economy all thrive when people enjoy good health, social and financial well-being, and the chance to make meaningful contributions to society.