PolicyLink and PERE
16
An Equity Profile of Orange County
Equity indicators framework
Demographics:
Who lives in the region and how is this
changing?
• Racial/ethnic diversity
• Demographic change
• Population growth
• Racial generation gap
Economic vitality:
How is the region doing on measures of
economic growth and well being?
• Is the region producing good jobs?
• Can all residents access good jobs?
• Is growth widely shared?
• Do all residents have enough income to
sustain their families?
• Is race/ethnicity/nativity a barrier to
economic success?
• What are the strongest industries and
occupations?
Introduction
Readiness:
How prepared are the region's residents for the 21
st
century economy?
• Does the workforce have the skills for the jobs of
the future?
• Are all youth ready to enter the workforce?
• Are residents healthy?
• Are racial gaps in education and health
decreasing?
Connectedness:
Are the region's residents and neighborhoods
connected to one another and to the region's assets
and opportunities?
• Do residents have transportation choices?
• Can residents access jobs and opportunities
located throughout the region?
• Can all residents access affordable, quality,
convenient housing?
• Do neighborhoods reflect the region's diversity? Is
segregation decreasing?
• Are all residents, especially immigrants, integrated
into civic life?
The indicators in this profile are presented in four sections. The first section describes the
region's demographics. The next three sections present indicators of the region's economic
vitality, readiness, and connectedness. Below are the questions answered within each of the four
sections.
