The city of Morgan Hill is taking steps to enhance economic mobility and opportunity with the launch of its ELEVATE Morgan Hill Economic Mobility Report. This new initiative aims to bridge gaps for Spanish-speaking and lower-income community members by connecting them with jobs and career opportunities, housing resources, and improving their sense of belonging in Morgan Hill.
Morgan Hill faces significant housing affordability and economic inequality challenges, like the rest of the Bay Area. Although the city has a relatively high median household income of $139,161, rising housing costs have created a financial strain for many residents. Home values in Morgan Hill have more than doubled since 2009, and rent has increased by nearly 60 percent during the past decade. As a result, 50 percent of residents are considered cost-burdened, spending more than half their income on housing.
The report is grounded in the Upward Economic Mobility Framework developed by the Urban Institute. This framework emphasizes the role of social capital — strong social networks and access to resources — in improving various aspects of life, including education, health, and economic equity. By enhancing these connections, Morgan Hill can foster a more inclusive and supportive community.
A key focus of the report is addressing the disparities faced by the city’s Hispanic/Latinx population, representing 34 percent of the community. This group experiences higher poverty rates, severe cost burdens, and overcrowding compared to other demographics. The demographics of Morgan Hill are changing, with more than 50 percent of the population being Hispanic/Latinx and Asian. One in four businesses in Morgan Hill is Hispanic/Latinx-owned.
The built environment should reflect the diverse community that lives and works in the city. While increasing affordable housing units is critical, it is not enough. Families need the knowledge, awareness, and comfort to access housing and job resources. The city’s economic and fiscal sustainability relies on an ecosystem of companies and new investment. However, this ecosystem is not only large companies but also small businesses, microenterprises, and entrepreneurs, which are the backbone of the local economy.
The report highlights the importance of community feedback in shaping effective strategies. Surveys revealed that housing access is the primary concern for both English and Spanish-speaking residents, with job access and education also being significant issues for the Spanish-speaking community. Food security was another significant concern, with 41 percent of Spanish speakers expressing worries about having enough to eat.
The ELEVATE Morgan Hill Economic Mobility Report represents a critical effort to address these challenges by focusing on belonging, leveraging community feedback, and implementing targeted strategies. Through this initiative, our vision for Morgan Hill is one where economic mobility and inclusivity are not just ideals but tangible realities.
The city will thrive if all residents feel a sense of belonging and integration, foster strong social networks, and actively participate and contribute to the community’s well-being.
Edith Ramirez is the assistant city manager for Morgan Hill. She wrote this for Morgan Hill Life.
