A Texas Women’s Economic Opportunity Index released this month shows a modest gain for women’s earnings: a full‑time Texas woman now makes 81 cents for every dollar earned by a man, up from 79 cents in 2014. The index, compiled by the Texas Women’s Foundation with data scientists at Every Texan, evaluates economic security, health, family care, and work‑education opportunities in more than 200 counties.
Local leaders call for action
Foundation president and CEO Karen Hughes White said, “Texas women and their families need to not just survive, but to thrive. Investing in women and their families will create a strong and vibrant Texas for everyone.” She urged lawmakers and community leaders to use the index as a roadmap for future state investments.
Where the gaps remain
While the wage gap has narrowed by three cents over a decade, senior researcher Coda Rayo‑Garza warned that progress is slow, noting it could take generations to close fully at the current rate. The report highlights that 76% of women ages 25‑54 are in the labor force compared with 88% of men, and that Hispanic women earn just 48 cents for every dollar earned by a non‑Hispanic white man.
Geographically, suburban counties in the Dallas‑Fort Worth and Houston metros rank highest for women’s economic opportunity, with Rockwall, Denton and Collin counties among the top five. Dallas County, while not in the top 20 overall, scores well on economic security and workforce development for women. In contrast, counties along the southern border and in West Texas score lower, reflecting limited access to high‑pay jobs and resources.
Leadership and childcare challenges
Women hold 22% of management positions versus 34% for men, and affordable childcare remains scarce. The index reports that the annual cost of full‑time infant care consumes about 22% of a typical working woman’s income, and 63% of counties have little to no access to maternity care.
Rayo‑Garza emphasized that “where a woman lives really impacts her economic opportunity,” underscoring the need for targeted solutions that address regional disparities.
Foundation’s ongoing work
Since 1985, the Texas Women’s Foundation has invested millions in grants aimed at eliminating barriers to women’s economic security. The new index is intended to guide future grants and programs that prioritize women’s health, education, and economic stability, reinforcing the belief that “when you invest in a woman, she lifts all those around her.”
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
