Author Description

The distribution of income between households is commonly raised as an economic policy issue. The extent to which economic rewards are concentrated in particular households and less available in others is a frequent concern in both political and economic debate. This study presents a comparison of income distribution in OECD countries. It compares the extent to which income is dispersed between households on a standarized basis, adjustment for the size of households and for international difference in real incomes. To the extent that data permit, the separate contributions of property and employment incomes and the effects of direct taxes and cash transfers are analyzed. In addition, national studies are used to summarize national trends in income distribution over the last two decades.