When we think of North Carolina, we often imagine vibrant cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, or Asheville—places filled with development, job opportunities, and cultural activities. But not every town in the state shares the same economic progress.
According to recent data, one town has been officially named the poorest in North Carolina, and it highlights the ongoing struggle with poverty and lack of opportunity in certain rural areas. In this article, we’ll reveal which town it is, why it holds this unfortunate title, and what factors have led to its current condition.
Which Town Is the Poorest in North Carolina?
The title of the poorest town in North Carolina goes to Whiteville, a small town located in Columbus County, southeastern part of the state.
With a population of just around 5,000 people, Whiteville faces significant economic challenges that have landed it at the bottom of the list in terms of income, employment, and overall living standards.
How Was This Ranking Determined?
The ranking was based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau, especially from the American Community Survey (ACS). It looked at key indicators like:
Median household income
Poverty rate
Unemployment rate
Access to healthcare and education
Housing conditions
Whiteville stood out because of its low median income, which is significantly below both the state and national averages. The town also has a high poverty rate, with many residents relying on government assistance just to make ends meet.
Why Is Whiteville Struggling Economically?
Several reasons contribute to Whiteville’s economic difficulties:
Limited job opportunities: There are very few large employers in the area, and many people have to travel far for work.
Low education levels: A smaller percentage of residents have college degrees, which limits access to higher-paying jobs.
Rural location: Whiteville is not near any major metropolitan area, which reduces access to big business, transport, and services.
Outmigration: Young people often leave town after high school or college in search of better chances elsewhere.
These factors create a cycle that’s hard to break. When young workers leave, the local economy shrinks even further, making it harder for the town to attract new businesses or investment.
What Are the Living Conditions Like?
Living in Whiteville means facing a daily struggle for many families. With fewer job options and low wages, most people find it tough to afford quality housing, healthcare, or even proper nutrition.
Schools often lack funding, and public services are stretched thin. The crime rate is also slightly higher than average for towns of similar size, adding to residents’ challenges.
Can Things Improve for Whiteville?
Yes, but it will take focused effort. Some ideas that could help include:
Encouraging small business development and entrepreneurship
Investing in job training and education programs
Attracting new industries with tax incentives
Improving infrastructure like roads, internet, and healthcare
Partnering with state and federal agencies for support
There have been some small steps in the right direction. Local community groups are working on outreach and training, and a few small businesses are starting to grow. However, real change will take time and serious investment.
Whiteville’s status as the poorest town in North Carolina serves as a reminder that many rural areas in the U.S. are still struggling. While cities continue to grow and modernize, small towns like Whiteville are often left behind.
But with the right mix of support, leadership, and opportunity, there’s always hope for a brighter future. Raising awareness is the first step toward finding real solutions and making life better for everyone who calls these towns home.
