Poverty in America isn’t spread evenly.
A handful of states consistently rank at the bottom for income and economic opportunity.
Rural economies, underfunded schools, and poor health outcomes all keep millions trapped in cycles of poverty.
Mississippi
Always near the bottom, with a poverty rate close to 19% and the lowest median household income in the nation. Rural isolation and lack of industry keep the gap wide.
West Virginia
Coal’s decline left scars. West Virginia struggles with low incomes and high poverty, compounded by health crises and limited job diversification.
Louisiana
High poverty, especially in rural parishes and urban pockets. Generational inequality and weak infrastructure make recovery slow.
Arkansas
Income levels remain low, with widespread rural poverty. Many counties face double-digit child poverty rates.
New Mexico
High poverty rates, especially in tribal areas and rural counties. Education gaps and limited access to health care deepen the crisis.
Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky’s Appalachian region continues to suffer from coal’s collapse, leaving high poverty and low labor participation.
Alabama
Despite pockets of growth, many rural areas face entrenched poverty. Health outcomes and low wages keep it in the bottom tier.
Oklahoma
Energy dependence and rural poverty drag down median income. Indigenous communities in particular face high poverty rates.
Tennessee
Tourism and industry can’t hide persistent rural poverty. Many communities face low wages and limited economic mobility.
Prediction
These states aren’t just “poor” by numbers — they reveal where America’s safety net is weakest. Without major investment in education, health, and infrastructure, expect them to remain stuck at the bottom, with generational poverty continuing to define daily life.
