Jace Lamonica
The US is a nation of opportunity and wealth, yet cities grappling with poverty and social challenges lie beneath its economic prosperity. Here, we explore some of the largest cities grappling with low household incomes; however, they still shine beyond their financial struggles with their unique characteristics.
Selma, Alabama
In the heart of Alabama, Selma grapples with an economic disparity that starkly contrasts its historical legacy. The city struggles with high poverty rates, and a median household income of just $31,084 in 2022 reflects its financial woes. Declining population numbers further highlight the uphill battle Selma endures.
Pueblo, Colorado
Once a prominent steel manufacturing hub, Pueblo now stands as Colorado’s poorest large city, with a poverty rate of around 20.6% in 2024 and a median household income of $62,182. The city is shifting towards diverse industries, though unemployment and financial setbacks remain key issues for many locals.
Pine Bluff, Arkansas
Pine Bluff faces harsh financial realities, with a median household income of $39,411 and a concerning poverty rate nearing 39.5%. These challenges have burdened the community, emphasizing the significant economic difficulties that continue to impact daily life for its residents.
Bridgeport, Connecticut
Bridgeport’s decline from a booming industrial hub is evident, with a median household income of $54,440 in 2024 highlighting ongoing financial struggles. A large part of the community is affected by unemployment and poverty, and efforts are being made to reignite economic growth and stability.
Dover, Delaware
Delaware’s capital has a median household income of $54,438, which is lower than that of other areas of the state. Many jobs here are public sector-based. Dover continues to struggle with economic diversification, but plans are in place to enhance local job prospects.
Miami Gardens, Florida
Home to a vibrant community and a strong sense of unity, Miami Gardens faces ongoing financial strain. With a median household income for 2024 recorded at $56,071, residents often contend with rising costs and limited job prospects, emphasizing the need for sustainable growth to support their people.
Albany, Georgia
Albany used to be home to a thriving cotton industry; now, it relies heavily on healthcare and manufacturing. The median household income is $43,724, and poverty remains a significant issue. Revitalization efforts are focusing on economic development and community improvement.
East St. Louis, Illinois
East St. Louis is economically disadvantaged, with a median household income of $28,519 in 2024. The city has long struggled with poverty, stemming from the decline of its once-booming industrial base. Yet, it’s still booming with a rich musical legacy in blues and jazz with live performances across local venues.
Gary, Indiana
Since the steel industry’s collapse, Gary, Indiana, has experienced significant financial decline, resulting in a median household income of $36,874 in 2024 and persistently high unemployment. In response, the city is exploring tourism and cultural heritage to boost its struggling economy.
Louis, Missouri
St. Louis, once a central industrial hub, now faces significant economic challenges reflected in a median income of $52,696 in 2024. Known for the Gateway Arch and its historic neighborhoods, St. Louis has seen efforts to boost tech and healthcare job opportunities.
Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville, home to the Kentucky Derby, grapples with economic disparity, reflected in a median income of $65,457 and high poverty rates in many neighborhoods. Regardless of these issues, organizations like the Louisville Urban League strive to create job opportunities and strengthen communities.
Kansas City, Kansas
Even though this city shares its name with its neighbor across the state line, it faces a much dimmer financial outlook, marked by persistent unemployment issues and a median household income of $58,435. These financial challenges have created significant hardships for many residents.
Shreveport, Louisiana
Known for its casinos and cultural diversity, Shreveport stands as Louisiana’s poorest large city, with a median household income of $45,967. The local economy faces significant setbacks, and while there are efforts to revitalize, many residents continue to struggle amid economic uncertainty.
Flint, Michigan
Flint has long been associated with monetary struggle, boasting a median income of $33,036. While its car manufacturing legacy is celebrated at the Flint Institute of Arts and the Flint Cultural Center, the city’s cultural contributions remain significant, particularly its history in shaping the automobile industry.
Gulfport, Mississippi
Hurricane Katrina’s devastation in 2005 significantly impacted Gulfport, Mississippi’s second-largest city, which now has a median income of $43,009. Despite its beautiful Gulf Coast setting, the city continues to face economic struggles, with recovery efforts progressing slowly as it seeks to revitalize its local economy.
Newark, New Jersey
Home to the acclaimed Newark Museum of Art, Newark offers visitors a rich collection of American and Tibetan artworks. In contrast, this is one of the poorest large cities in New Jersey, with a 2024 median household income of $48,377 and struggles with high poverty and limited job opportunities.
Cleveland, Ohio
This city is not just about the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Cleveland has been heavily investing in healthcare and education to bring much-needed economic development to the area. The area has been struggling since the decline of manufacturing and has a median household income of $38,808.
Pocatello, Idaho
A gateway to outdoor recreation, Pocatello has a median household income of $56,115 in 2024 due to lower-paying service jobs. Idaho State University plays an important role in the local economy, and efforts are being made to encourage tourism and attract higher-paying industries to the region.
Memphis, Tennessee
The birthplace of blues and the home of Elvis Presley’s Graceland, Memphis is now a pilgrimage site for music lovers. Although it’s known for its rich cultural history, the city has a median household income of $48,090 as of 2024 and continuously works to bridge the gap between wealthier and poorer neighborhoods.
Buffalo, New York
Its proximity to the iconic Niagara Falls attracts millions of tourists to Buffalo annually. With a median household income of $46,184, the city is on the rebound after years of economic struggle with efforts to draw in tech startups and investment in waterfront redevelopment.
