The Basic Economic Security Tables™ Index (BEST) is a measure of the basic needs and assets workers require for economic security throughout a lifetime and across generations. The BEST addresses the several pieces of the larger basic economic security picture—basic needs, savings and employment-based benefits—and allows a broad and complete view of worker needs and families’ prospects for achieving the economic security so critical to their futures and to their communities.

BEST values have been calculated for the United States and six state and regions to assist policymakers, researchers, advocates and media who assess the status of the nation’s workers, the needs of America’s families, and the state of the nation—today and in coming years. BEST data increases awareness of the challenges faced by hard working American families and points to important policies and jobs that allow these families to build and achieve economic security.