The Self-Sufficiency Standard for California

The Family Economic Self-Sufficiency Standard (Self-Sufficiency Standard) measures how much income is needed for a family of a certain composition living in a particular county to adequately meet its minimal basic needs. It is based on the costs families face on a daily basis – housing, food, child care, out-of-pocket medical expenses, transportation, and other necessary spending – and provides a complete picture of what it takes for families to make ends meet, contrary to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). 

How much is enough to make ends meet in your county?

• To view the Self-Sufficiency Standard for a particular county and household type, use the Self-Sufficiency Standard Look-Up Table.
• To view detailed tables of the Self-Sufficiency Standard for a particular county, click on the county name below.
• To view the methodology for the Self-Sufficiency Standard for California, click here.