Cayuga County's poverty rate edged higher in 2007, new census data reveal, though the county remains just below the statewide rate.

Figures released last week pegged Cayuga County's overall poverty rate at 12.6 percent in 2007, up from 10.6 percent a year earlier. The statewide rate of 13.7 percent was down from 14.2 percent.

The census figures use the federal Office of Management and Budget standard to determine the poverty threshold, which was put at $21,203 for a family of four.

Children represent a substantial portion of the county's population living in poverty, with the rate for people under 18 years old at 25.5 percent last year.

Poverty and income

in Cayuga County

In several categories

pertaining to poverty,

Cayuga County fared worse in 2007 compared with 2006, according to new Census Bureau statistics:

People below poverty level Cayuga County NYS

2006 10.6% 14.2%

2007 12.6% 13.7%

Under 18 below poverty level

2006 17.0% 19.7%

2007 25.5% 19.4%

Over 65 below poverty level

2006 5.6% 12.1%

2007 6.2% 11.7%

Median household income*

2006 $45,139 $51,384

2007 $45,595 $53,514

* Income data adjusted for inflation