Renewing the American Promise by Measuring the Progress

At Finding Common Purpose (FCP), we are building an outcomes movement. We provide funding and partnership to communities that are committed to sharing measurable outcomes and aligning local efforts so that working Americans can thrive, not just survive.

The Disappearing American Promise

Despite decades of economic growth and expansion, economic opportunity in this country continues to decline. Currently, 64% of people making six figures say they are in “survival mode” rather than wealthy, and more than half say they would need to double their income to feel truly secure. Currently, the average cost of living greatly exceeds the average wage in every state in the country. This is the result of decades of rising costs, stagnant wages, and fraying public systems.

Visualizing Changing Affordability in America

The ratio compares average wages to the cost of living. A ratio of 1.0 means wages exactly cover living costs. Below 1.0, the average job doesn't pay enough to live on.