Some towns in the U.S. struggle more than others when it comes to jobs, income, and opportunities. In Mississippi—a state that already faces high poverty rates—there’s one town that has been named the poorest in the state. The data might be surprising, but it highlights the real challenges people face in certain parts of the country.
Which Town is the Poorest in Mississippi?
According to the latest reports based on U.S. Census and economic data, Jonestown in Coahoma County has been named the poorest town in Mississippi.
This ranking is based on several key factors:
Median household income
Poverty rate
Unemployment rate
Access to services like healthcare, education, and public transport
In Jonestown, the average household income is much lower than both the state and national averages. A large percentage of the population lives below the poverty line, and job opportunities are very limited.
Key Statistics About Jonestown, Mississippi
Here’s a quick look at the economic picture in Jonestown:
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Median Household Income | Around $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Poverty Rate | Over 50% of the population |
| Unemployment Rate | Significantly higher than state average |
| Population | Less than 1,200 people |
These numbers show how tough life can be in small towns where industries have left or never fully developed.
Why is Jonestown Struggling Economically?
Several reasons contribute to the economic struggle in Jonestown:
Lack of Industry: The town doesn’t have many businesses or factories that offer stable jobs.
Educational Challenges: Schools in the area often lack funding and resources, which affects the future of young people.
Limited Infrastructure: Poor roads, public transport, and healthcare facilities make it harder for people to work or get help.
Outmigration: Many young adults leave for bigger cities, which reduces the working-age population.
How Does Jonestown Compare to Other Mississippi Towns?
While many towns in Mississippi face economic hardship, Jonestown stands out due to its extremely low income levels and high poverty rate. Other towns may also struggle, but they often have more job options, slightly better infrastructure, or are closer to urban centres.
Efforts to Improve the Situation
Some local and national programs are trying to help towns like Jonestown by:
Offering job training programs
Improving school funding
Supporting small businesses
Encouraging affordable housing projects
But progress is slow, and real change takes time and consistent investment.
Jonestown, Mississippi has been named the poorest town in the state due to its low income, high poverty, and limited job options. While the situation is tough, awareness is the first step toward change.
Highlighting these issues helps policymakers, non-profits, and communities take action to build a better future for towns like Jonestown. Real improvement depends on long-term support, strong leadership, and opportunities that give people a reason to stay and grow where they live.
SOURCES
- (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmMH5qRQ89I)
- (https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/poorest-states)
- (https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/slideshows/poorest-cities-in-the-us)
