The Pew Charitable Trusts - State and Consumer Initiatives about American Cities Project

Cities Squeezed by Pension and Retiree Health Care Shortfalls

This brief finds that 30 cities at the center of the nation’s most populous metropolitan areas faced more than $192 billion in unpaid commitments for pensions and other retiree benefits, primarily health care, as of fiscal 2009 and are employing a variety of strategies to address these shortfalls.

30 Cities: An Introductory Snapshot

Pew recently updated its 30-city snapshot interactive, with new data on population, home values, income and unemployment. Pew's American Cities Project focuses on the biggest city in the nation's 30 largest metro areas.

Many Major Cities Gain Population Faster Than The Rest Of Their Metro Areas

Recent Census data shows that America's largest cities are growing more rapidly than their surrounding regions, and the nation as a whole.

City vs. Metro Population Growth

This interactive shows recent changes in city and metropolitan populations for biggest city in the nation's 30 largest metro areas.

Squeezing Local Governments

Cities, counties and school districts are facing a one-two punch: simultaneous drops in property tax revenue and state aid. The blows come even as demand for services is growing. This fiscal squeeze—not seen since 1980—has resulted in painful choices for local governments large and small.

Cities Facing Worst Fiscal Situation Since 1980

For the first time since 1980, both property tax revenue and state aid to local governments are declining at the same time.

Pew: Localities Squeezed by Reduction in State Aid and Property Taxes, Growing Demand for Services

For the first time since 1980, state aid and property taxes, two primary sources of funding, are dropping simultaneously, according to a new report.

The Local Squeeze

While states slowly recover in the wake of the Great Recession, local governments have been hit with a one-two punch: State aid and property taxes, which together account for more than half of local revenues, are dropping simultaneously for the first time since 1980.

Cities Lose Property Tax, State Aid: Report

For the first time since 1980, property tax revenue and state aid to cities across the United States are shrinking simultaneously, the Pew Charitable Trusts said in a report on Thursday.

Sue Urahn: The New Cities Project

Pew Center on the States' Managing Director Sue Urahn discusses Pew's new Cities Project.

Alan Ehrenhalt: The Relationship Between State and Local Governments

Stateline Editor Alan Ehrenhalt discusses the historic and current relationship between state and local governments’ views and the possible effects on local communities.

Uncertainty Remains for States in Wake of Debt Deal

Pew Research Director Kil Huh provides insights into the good and bad news for states and localities in the wake of the debt ceiling deal.

The Debt Ceiling Debate

This brief examines how a potential default by the federal government could present serious challenges to states and cities.