Women’s prison population, correctional costs projected to grow through 2035

The number of women in prison and the associated costs are expected to rise through 2035, according to a Council on Criminal Justice report. Incarcerating women is notably more expensive than housing men, with costs ranging from $87,000 to $122,000 annually per inmate. This substantial financial strain highlights the need for reform in correctional systems to address gender-specific issues and find more cost-effective solutions. As the prison population continues to grow, it's crucial to rethink how we handle female inmates to balance rehabilitation and fiscal responsibility.