Two unexpected conclusions resulted from a recent study by the Tijeras Foundation of the 60 largest metropolitan areas on charitable giving.  Giving as a percent of income dramatically declines as income increases.  Persons earning less than $100,000 were more generous in 2006 than in 1993 while those earning more than $100,000 were less generous.

The study also found that on average charitable giving accounted for about 2.7% of adjusted gross income (AGI).  IRS data for 2006 suggests this percentage is 3.2% for those who itemize their deductions.  Memphis ranked #2 of the 60 (Birmingham was highest) with giving equaling 3.4% of AGI.