Urban poverty is usually defined in two ways: as an absolute standard based on a minimum amount of income needed to sustain a healthy and minimally comfortable life, and as a relative standard that is set based on average the standard of living in a nation (McDonald & McMillen, 2008, p. 397).

Urban Poor: Understanding the Concept

Urban poor refers to a segment of the population living in urban areas who experience poverty and face various challenges in meeting their basic needs and improving their quality of life. These individuals and families often struggle with limited access to resources, inadequate housing, and limited economic opportunities. Understanding the concept of urban poverty requires an examination of its causes, characteristics, and implications.

Causes of Urban Poverty

Several factors contribute to the existence of urban poverty, including:

1. Urbanization: Rapid urbanization leads to an influx of people into cities, straining existing infrastructure and services.

2. Unemployment and Underemployment: Limited job opportunities, particularly in the formal sector, result in high unemployment rates and low wages.

3. Informal Economy: Many urban poor engage in the informal economy, characterized by irregular and low-income work without legal protections.

4. Inadequate Education: Limited access to quality education and skills training hinders the urban poor from securing stable employment.

5. Land and Housing: High land and housing prices make it challenging for the urban poor to find affordable and adequate shelter.

Characteristics of Urban Poor

The urban poor often exhibit the following characteristics:

1. Low Income: Urban poor households typically earn incomes below the poverty line, struggling to afford basic necessities.

2. Overcrowded Housing: Due to financial constraints, the urban poor often live in overcrowded slums or informal settlements lacking proper sanitation and infrastructure.

3. Limited Access to Services: The urban poor face challenges in accessing healthcare, education, clean water, sanitation facilities, and other essential services.

4. Informal Employment: Many urban poor individuals work in the informal sector without job security, social protections, or access to benefits.

5. Food Insecurity: Limited income and rising food prices contribute to food insecurity among the urban poor, making it difficult to meet nutritional needs.

Implications of Urban Poverty

Urban poverty has wide-ranging implications for individuals, families, and society as a whole:

1. Social Inequality: Urban poverty exacerbates existing social inequalities, leading to disparities in education, healthcare, and overall well-being.

2. Health Risks: Living in crowded and unsanitary environments increases the risk of diseases, such as respiratory infections and waterborne illnesses.

3. Crime and Violence: Poverty-stricken neighborhoods often experience higher crime rates and violence, leading to an unsafe environment for residents.

4. Inter-generational Poverty: Children growing up in urban poverty face limited opportunities and are more likely to continue the cycle of poverty in their adulthood.

5. Social Exclusion: The urban poor may face discrimination and marginalization, limiting their access to social and economic opportunities.

In conclusion, urban poverty encompasses a range of challenges faced by individuals and families living in urban areas. Understanding the causes, characteristics, and implications of urban poverty is crucial for developing effective strategies to alleviate poverty, promote social inclusion, and improve the overall well-being of the urban poor.