Question

This map indicates income patterns vary across the United States in contrast to the national average. Answer the following items. In one sentence, identify a U.S. state where income is very likely to be significantly above the national average. In one sentence, identify a U.S. state where income is very likely to be significantly under the national average. In 2–3 sentences, analyze and suggest reasons why these disparities might exist. Propose a possible research question about how spatial associations could be used to affect policy in the location you identified in Part B.

Answer 1

A U.S. state where income is very likely to be significantly above the national average is California. Conversely, a U.S. state where income is very likely to be significantly under the national average is West Virginia.

These disparities in income levels can largely be attributed to factors such as industrial diversification, education levels, access to high-paying jobs, and the presence of major urban centers. States like California benefit from thriving industries such as technology and entertainment, which draw high-income workers, while West Virginia faces challenges such as reliance on less profitable industries, lower educational attainment, and limited job opportunities.

A possible research question to explore could be: "How can spatial analysis of socioeconomic data in West Virginia inform targeted economic development policies to stimulate job growth and improve income levels?"