Beyond traditional poverty lines: the living income benchmark and rural poverty in South Africa

This study compares traditional poverty lines with a living income benchmark using data from two rural farming communities. Findings show household incomes fall significantly below the 11.79 USD PPP/AE/day benchmark, with food costs making up nearly two-thirds of the required income. Unlike traditional poverty lines, which reflect survival thresholds, the living income benchmark offers a more comprehensive view of rural poverty by accounting for food, housing, education, and healthcare. The results highlight the inadequacy of on-farm income and the need for off-farm earnings and social protection. The study advocates using the living income benchmark to inform rural poverty policy.