According to recent data, McComb has been identified as the poorest town in Mississippi. With a staggering 48.8% of individuals living below the poverty line, McComb faces significant economic challenges. The situation is particularly dire for children, as 70.3% of those under 18 years old in McComb live in poverty.
Key statistics for McComb:
- Total individuals living below the poverty line: 6,000
- Employed individuals living below the poverty line: 873
- Median household income: $27,823
While McComb currently holds this unfortunate distinction, it’s important to note that poverty is a widespread issue across Mississippi. The state has consistently ranked as one of the poorest in the nation, with a poverty rate of approximately 18.7% in 2023, significantly higher than the national average of 11.7%.
Other Mississippi towns facing severe poverty include:
- Yazoo City (44.8% poverty rate)
- Greenville (37.3% poverty rate)
- Greenwood (36.6% poverty rate)
These statistics highlight the ongoing economic challenges faced by many communities in Mississippi, emphasizing the need for targeted efforts to address poverty and improve living conditions across the state.
Sources
- https://www.wcbi.com/video-mississippi-town-ranks-poorest-nation/
- https://bestdiplomats.org/poorest-states-in-america/
- https://magnoliatribune.com/2017/05/17/indianola_named_poorest_town_in_mississippi/
- https://www.eurasiareview.com/01012024-mississippi-the-poorest-us-state-analysis/
- https://stacker.com/stories/mississippi/cities-mississippi-most-living-poverty
