Louisiana is known for its rich culture, delicious food, and deep southern roots. But not every town in the state shares the same level of prosperity.
While some cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge are bustling with business and tourism, others are facing serious financial struggles. One small town, in particular, has recently been named the poorest in Louisiana — and the numbers tell a sad story.
Which Town Is the Poorest in Louisiana?
According to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other economic sources, Bastrop, located in Morehouse Parish, holds the title of the poorest town in Louisiana.
Bastrop once had a thriving paper mill industry, but after the mill shut down, the town faced an economic collapse. Many jobs were lost, and since then, the community has struggled to recover.
Key Statistics About Bastrop’s Economy
Here’s a quick look at the numbers that highlight Bastrop’s economic challenges:
| Economic Factor | Bastrop (Estimates) |
|---|---|
| Median Household Income | Around ₹22.5 lakh/year ($27,000) |
| Poverty Rate | Over 45% of residents |
| Unemployment Rate | Higher than state average |
| Population | About 9,500 people |
These numbers are much lower than both the state and national averages, which shows how tough things have been for this small town.
Why Is Bastrop So Poor?
There are several reasons why Bastrop is struggling economically:
Loss of Industry: The paper mill that once provided jobs to hundreds closed down years ago. Since then, no major company has replaced it.
Lack of New Jobs: With few job opportunities, many people have moved away, and those who stayed often rely on low-paying or temporary work.
Education Challenges: Access to quality education and job training is limited, making it harder for locals to qualify for better jobs.
Infrastructure and Investment: The town hasn’t seen much outside investment, and public facilities like roads, healthcare, and schools need upgrades.
How Does Bastrop Compare to Other Poor Towns in Louisiana?
While Bastrop is currently considered the poorest, several other towns in Louisiana also face similar problems, including:
Tallulah
Ferriday
Bogalusa
Jennings
Most of these towns are in rural areas where economic development is limited and opportunities are few.
What Is Being Done to Help?
Local leaders and community organizations are trying to turn things around:
Job training programs are being introduced to help people gain new skills.
Small business support is being provided to encourage local entrepreneurship.
Educational initiatives aim to improve access to quality learning for students.
Government aid programs are helping families with food, healthcare, and housing.
While progress is slow, some signs of hope are beginning to show as residents work together to rebuild their town.
Bastrop, Louisiana, may be facing hard times, but it’s also full of hardworking people who haven’t given up. The town’s struggles are real, and the title of “poorest town” highlights serious issues — but it also brings attention to the need for change.
With better job opportunities, education, and community support, towns like Bastrop can still hope for a better future.
