What is relative poverty?

Relative poverty is a measure of poverty that is relative to the society in which an individual lives. It is defined in relation to the economic status of the rest of the population, rather than an absolute standard of living. In other words, relative poverty is when a person's income and resources are significantly below the average income and resources of the society in which they live. This can result in individuals or families being unable to afford basic necessities or participate fully in society.

Relative poverty is a measure of poverty that takes into account the income and living standards of the population as a whole. It is defined as the inability to reach a certain level of living considered acceptable in a particular society. This level is typically defined in terms of income, but can also include other factors such as access to education, healthcare, and housing.

Relative poverty is distinct from absolute poverty, which is a more severe form of poverty that is defined by a lack of access to basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter. Relative poverty is often used to measure the extent of inequality within a society, and to track changes in the distribution of income over time.