A recent analysis of economic data has identified New Square, a small village in Rockland County, as the poorest town in New York State.
This finding is based on median household income, poverty rates, and other socioeconomic indicators compiled by sources such as 24/7 Wall Street and the U.S. Census Bureau.
Key Facts About New Square
- Median Household Income: $24,881, far below the New York State median of $75,1573.
- Poverty Rate: 64.2%, the highest in the state.
- Population: 9,578 (2020 Census).
- Educational Attainment: Only 2.9% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to the state average of 38.1%.
- Households Receiving SNAP Benefits: 70.3%.
New Square is a predominantly Hasidic Jewish community located within the town of Ramapo. The town’s unique demographic and cultural characteristics contribute to its economic profile, but the statistics reflect significant financial hardship for many residents.
How New Square Compares to Other Poor Towns in New York
According to recent rankings, New Square leads the list of New York’s poorest towns, followed by places like Kaser, Geneseo, and Kiryas Joel. Here’s how New Square stands out:
| Rank | Town | Median Income | Poverty Rate | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Square | $27,488 | 64.2% | 9,578 |
| 2 | Kaser | $30,320 | 60.4% | 5,501 |
| 3 | Geneseo | $37,701 | 39.6% | 7,713 |
| 4 | Kiryas Joel | $40,218 | 43.3% | 34,368 |
| 5 | Jamestown | $39,507 | 28.2% | 28,679 |
Source: RoadSnacks, 24/7 Wall Street, U.S. Census Bureau.
Why Is New Square So Poor?
Several factors contribute to New Square’s economic challenges:
- Large Families: The community is known for large household sizes, which stretches limited income.
- Low Workforce Participation: Many residents prioritize religious study over employment, reducing overall household income.
- Limited Higher Education: The rate of adults with college degrees is extremely low, impacting earning potential.
Despite these challenges, New Square has a strong sense of community and cultural identity, which plays a crucial role in the daily lives of its residents.
New Square has been named the poorest town in New York, with the lowest median household income and the highest poverty rate in the state. While economic hardship is a significant issue, the town’s unique cultural and demographic factors also shape its profile.
Sources:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEuoiAyWYLc
- https://hudsonvalleypost.com/the-poorest-places-to-live-in-new-york-state/
- https://lite987.com/new-square-poorest-town-new-york-state/
- https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-new-york/
- https://wblk.com/poorest-cities-new-york-state-23/