Mapping Income Inequality Trends Between Spatial and Socio‐Demographic Disparities

Abstract

ABSTRACT We analyze income inequality trends during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Italy across regions, metropolitan, peripheral, and rural areas, and various household typologies. We consider both gross and disposable income to assess the redistributive impact of taxes and transfers. Inequality is estimated within and between spatial and socio‐demographic groups, with detailed breakdowns using small‐area estimation techniques. Our findings show increased disparities between household typologies, with households with children experiencing the greatest income losses. Inequalities have risen significantly in Northwest urban areas, heavily impacted by the pandemic. Lastly, we find out that taxes and transfers played a role in mitigating growing disparities.