Arizona reports steepest national drop in SNAP enrollment

Arizona has experienced the steepest decline in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment in the nation. According to the Arizona Department of Economic Security, SNAP enrollment dropped by approximately 50% over the last year, resulting in over 457,000 people losing food benefits by 2026. In Maricopa County, more than half of the children who relied on SNAP last summer were out of the program by early 2026.

The steep decline in SNAP enrollment is occurring as inflation grows faster than salaries, making the program a critical support tool for families. The impact is being felt acutely by children across the state, who have lost a significant number of benefits.