The relationship between demographic characteristics and poverty in Gorontalo Utara Regency, Indonesia

Poverty remains a persistent challenge in Gorontalo Utara Regency, where socioeconomic disparities are strongly influenced by demographic conditions. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between demographic characteristics and poverty in Gorontalo Utara, focusing on how population attributes shape household welfare outcomes. A quantitative correlational approach was employed using cross-sectional data from the 2024 National Socio-Economic Survey. The study examined key demographic variables, including age, gender, education, occupation, marital status, household size, and home ownership, in relation to poverty status measured by per capita household expenditure. Descriptive statistics were used to outline demographic profiles, while Spearman correlation, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression assessed relationships and predictive effects. The results revealed significant associations between education, occupation, household size, and gender with poverty. Higher education and stable employment reduced poverty risk, while large households and female-headed families were more vulnerable. Education and occupation were found to be the most influential factors, confirming the central role of human capital in improving welfare. The findings highlight the demographic foundations of poverty in Gorontalo Utara and emphasize the need for policies promoting education access, employment diversification, and gender equity. Strengthening these demographic dimensions is essential for sustainable and inclusive poverty reduction in rural Indonesia.