The Bottom Line

Median household income U.S.:
$49,901 (2006–2007)

Median household income R.I.:
$54,735    

National unemployment rate:
6.8 percent (Nov. 2008) 7.2 percent (Dec. 2008)

R.I. unemployment rate/state ranking:
9.3 percent/50 (Nov. 2008)

Mass. unemployment rate/state ranking:
5.9 percent/24 (Nov. 2008)

R.I. maximum weekly unemployment benefit, no dependents:
$528/week

R.I. maximum temporary disability insurance, no dependents:
$671/week

Welfare recipient:
$420/week

Welfare case worker:
$43,500