According to recent data, Lac du Flambeau has been named the poorest town in Wisconsin. Here are the key details about this northern Wisconsin community:
Demographics and Economy
- Population: Approximately 1,800 residents
- Median household income: $26,076 (compared to Wisconsin’s state average of $67,080)
- Median home value: $77,500 (compared to Wisconsin’s state average of $200,400)
Economic Challenges
- 18.1% of households receive SNAP benefits
- The town’s median income is less than half of the state average
- Home values are significantly lower than the state median
While Lac du Flambeau faces economic difficulties, it’s important to note that this designation is based on financial metrics and may not reflect other aspects of the community’s quality of life or cultural richness.
It’s worth mentioning that larger cities like Milwaukee and Whitewater have also been identified as facing significant economic challenges in other studies focusing on urban areas. However, for small towns specifically, Lac du Flambeau currently holds the distinction of being named the poorest in Wisconsin.
Sources
- https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-wisconsin/
- https://smartasset.com/data-studies/income-inequality-2025
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2023-11-14-wisconsin-town-named-the-poorest-in-the-state/
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2025-01-07-wisconsin-city-named-among-the-neediest-cities-in-the-us/
- https://b100quadcities.com/these-are-the-poorest-cities-in-wisconsin-for-2024/