According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data and analysis by 24/7 Wall St., Urania, Louisiana holds the distinction of being the poorest town in the state-and, in fact, the entire country.
Urania’s median annual household income is just $12,358, with a poverty rate of 40.4%. This figure is dramatically lower than the national median household income of $64,994.
Factors Behind Urania’s Economic Challenges
- Economic Decline: Like many small towns in rural America, Urania once depended on local industries such as manufacturing and resource extraction. The decline or closure of these industries has left the community with limited job opportunities and resources.
- Education: Only 5.4% of adults in Urania have a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9%. Lower educational attainment often correlates with fewer employment opportunities and lower wages.
- Demographics: Rural towns in the South, including Urania, have historically faced higher rates of poverty and economic inequality, issues that have been exacerbated by industrial decline.
Comparison to Other Louisiana Towns
While Urania ranks as the poorest by median income, other Louisiana towns and cities also face significant poverty. For example, Natchitoches has a poverty rate of 46.8% and a median income of $21,854, and cities like Kenner, Houma, and Monroe also report high poverty rates.
However, Urania’s combination of extremely low median income and high poverty rate sets it apart as the state’s most economically challenged town.
Summary Table: Key Statistics for Urania, Louisiana
| Statistic | Urania, LA | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $12,358 | $64,994 |
| Poverty Rate | 40.4% | 11.6% |
| Adults with Bachelor’s Degree+ | 5.4% | 32.9% |
Urania, Louisiana, is recognized as the poorest town in the state, facing deep economic challenges linked to industrial decline, low educational attainment, and limited job opportunities.
Sources:
- https://247wallst.com/special-report/2023/04/03/this-small-town-in-louisiana-has-the-lowest-median-income-in-america/
- https://zipatlas.com/us/la/city-comparison/highest-poverty.htm
- https://973thedawg.com/ixp/36/p/louisiana-cities-with-the-highest-poverty-rates-in-the-state/