In some countries, the poverty line is set at the same level for both urban and rural areas, not taking into account the higher costs of living in cities. Nor can poverty be adequately described as just a lack of economic resources or access to basic needs. Women face a number of social barriers that limit their access to income-earning opportunities. In countries where women do not have the right to own property or gain access to credit, sudden loss of a partner or job can leave the household without any means to stay afloat. Children are also especially vulnerable to poverty.
Child poverty is strongly self-perpetuating.
Many poor households rely on child labor for survival, yet this work is often at the expense of schooling and the health of the child, making it difficult for the next generation to escape from poverty. When women must spend a significant proportion of their time collecting water or fuel, they have less time available for income-earning activities. However, the increase in female-headed households has positive aspects as well. The urbanization of poverty has implications for the urban environment and quality of life. Unable to afford even the lowest-cost housing, many of the poor build their own makeshift shelters out of cardboard, plywood, or scraps of metal.