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Apache County, Arizona, with an annual GDP of approximately 2.73 billion dollars and a GDP per capita of 41,366 dollars, is experiencing significant economic challenges, evidenced by a GDP growth rate of -4.8% over the last year and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -3.22% over the past 13 years. This decline contrasts sharply with Arizona's overall GDP growth rate of 3.2% and the national rate of 1.9%. The county's economy is heavily reliant on government contributions, which account for 38.1% of its GDP, compared to the state average of 11%. Additionally, Apache County's goods-producing sector is minimal at 4.3%, indicating a lack of industrial diversification. In comparison to other counties in Arizona, such as Maricopa County, which boasts a GDP per capita of 79,029 dollars and a growth rate of 4.1%, Apache County's economic performance highlights a pressing need for revitalization and diversification strategies.
Apache County, AZ, exhibits a notably low employment rate of 46.9% for individuals aged 20-64, significantly below the state average of 72.5% and the national average of 73.8%. Despite a relatively high employment rate of 81.3% for those with a Bachelor's degree, the overall workforce participation remains constrained, particularly among high school graduates, where only 40.4% are employed. This trend is starkly contrasted with Maricopa County, which boasts a 76.1% employment rate for the same age group. Additionally, Apache County's employment rate for females at 48.5% is also below the state average of 67.9%. These figures suggest systemic challenges in job availability and economic engagement in Apache County, highlighting a need for targeted economic development initiatives to improve employment outcomes.
Apache County, AZ exhibits significant economic challenges compared to both state and national averages. With a mean household income of $37,483 and a median household income of $53,624, it falls well below Arizona's state mean of $72,581 and the national mean of $75,149. The county's income per capita is notably low at $18,930, reflecting a high concentration of households earning less than $20,000 (30.1%), which is the highest among Arizona counties. Additionally, the income inequality, indicated by a Gini index of 0.5144, suggests a more pronounced disparity in income distribution compared to the state average of 0.4610. This economic landscape highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve income levels and reduce poverty in Apache County, especially when compared to more affluent counties like Maricopa and Pima.