Pew Research Center has just concluded a national telephone survey of Latinos on the impact of the economic downturn.

A majority of Latinos (54%) believe that this downturn, starting in 2007, has been harder on them than any other groups in America.  The survey reflects that 59% of Latinos surveyed says they have been out of work in the past year and that 75% say their personal finances are only in ‘fair’ to ‘poor’ shape.

Pew noted most measures of economic well-being show Latinos indeed are trailing other groups in America.  For example, the Latino unemployment rate was at 11% in December, 2011 while the national unemployment rate was at 8.5%. 

In addition, the poverty rate amongst Hispanics increased the most than any other group.  From 2006 to 2010 poverty amongst Latinos increased from 20.6% to 26.6%.

To see the complete Pew study click here.