A considerably higher percentage of citizens with annual incomes above $40,000 vote than do citizens with incomes under $10,000. Income level is in some ways related to education, as wealthier people have more opportunities for education. Wealthy citizens are more likely than poor ones to think that the "system" works for them and that their vote makes a difference. In contrast, low income citizens may often feel alienated from politics, possibly believing that conditions will remain the same no matter for whom they vote. A much higher percentage of citizens age 30 and older vote than do citizens younger than 30. Although voting turnout does diminish over age 70 as older people find it harder to physically get to the polls. Less than 2 of the eligible 18-24 year old age group are even registered to vote. Why? The most plausible reason is that this age group is the most mobile and hasn't put down roots in any one community. Because voter registration is not automatic, people who relocate have to make an effort to register. Another voter difference is related to race. Whites vote more regularly than blacks. This is due in part to relative income and educational levels of the two racial groups. African-Americans tend to be poorer and have less formal education than whites. It is interesting to note, however, that highly educated blacks vote at a significantly higher percentage than their white counterparts. Race also explains why the south has long had a lower turnout than the rest of the country. After the civil war, the Southern states made it difficult for blacks to register to vote, and only a very small percentage of eligible African-Americans were even registered. Another important factor to be considered is interest in politics. Many citizens who vote have grown up in families interested and active in politics, and they in turn stimulate their children to take an active interest.