Missouri is known for its beautiful landscapes, rivers, and rich cultural history—but like every state, it also has areas struggling with poverty. In 2025, new data has once again highlighted one town as the poorest in Missouri, drawing attention to the economic challenges faced by its residents.
This article explains which town holds this title, why it has been labeled the poorest, and what life is like for people living there. Let’s take a closer look at what the numbers reveal and what they mean for the people in this Missouri town.
Which Town Is the Poorest in Missouri?
According to recent census and economic data, Camden, Missouri, has been named the poorest town in the state. With a small population and limited job opportunities, Camden stands out not just for its low income levels but also for its high poverty rate compared to other towns in Missouri.
What Is Camden’s Economic Situation?
Camden is located in Ray County, Missouri, and has a population of just a few hundred people. The average household income in Camden is far below both the state and national averages. Many residents rely on low-wage jobs, part-time work, or government assistance to make ends meet.
The poverty rate in Camden is significantly higher than the Missouri state average. This means that a large number of people in the town live below the official poverty line, struggling to afford basic needs like food, rent, and healthcare.
Why Is Camden So Poor?
Several factors contribute to the poverty in Camden:
Limited job opportunities: There are very few businesses or industries in the area, which makes it hard for people to find stable, full-time work.
Low education levels: Many residents may not have access to higher education or job training, which limits the kinds of work they can get.
Small population: With fewer people living in the town, there’s less local demand for businesses or services, which hurts the economy.
Isolation: Camden is not close to any major city, which makes commuting for better jobs difficult.
How Does It Compare to Other Missouri Towns?
While several towns in Missouri face economic difficulties, Camden’s income and poverty numbers are the lowest. Other struggling towns may have higher unemployment or fewer services, but Camden ranks lowest overall when it comes to median income and household earnings.
What Is Life Like in Camden?
Living in Camden means dealing with daily challenges. Public services like healthcare, transportation, and education may be limited. Local stores and businesses are few, so residents often have to travel outside the town for groceries, medicine, or work.
Still, many people in Camden have deep roots in the community. Families who’ve lived there for generations often rely on one another for support. Despite the financial struggles, the town holds a strong sense of small-town identity and pride.
Are There Efforts to Help the Town?
There are some programs trying to improve life in Camden. State and federal support helps some families with food, housing, and healthcare. Some non-profits and local groups work to provide educational opportunities and job training.
However, long-term recovery will require investment in infrastructure, better access to education, and job creation. These changes take time and government support to make a lasting impact.
Camden, Missouri, holds the title of the poorest town in the state, with its residents facing tough economic conditions. Lack of job opportunities, low income, and limited resources have created ongoing challenges.
While the community remains strong and hopeful, real change will depend on better support from government and outside investment. Knowing the realities faced by towns like Camden helps highlight the importance of addressing rural poverty across America.
