Van Buren, Missouri has been identified as the poorest town in the state. This small community in Carter County faces significant economic challenges, with a staggering poverty rate and low median household income.
Economic Statistics
The economic situation in Van Buren is dire:
- Poverty rate: 45.18% of residents live below the poverty line
- Median household income: $22,143
- Average household income: $32,959
These figures paint a stark picture of the financial struggles faced by Van Buren’s residents. The poverty rate is particularly alarming, with nearly half of the population living in poverty.
Demographics and Employment
Van Buren has a population of approximately 764 residents as of 2024. The community is predominantly white (96.95%), with a small percentage of residents identifying as two or more races (2.53%) or Black/African American (0.52%).The town’s employment situation contributes to its economic challenges:
- 25.38% of full-time workers live in poverty
- 54.86% of part-time workers live in poverty
- 48.84% of non-workers live in poverty
Education and Housing
Education levels in Van Buren are relatively low, which may contribute to the economic difficulties:
- 66.55% of residents have only a high school education
- 12.68% have less than a 9th-grade education
- Only 12.31% have some college education
The median home value in Van Buren is $87,700, significantly lower than the state average of $171,800.
Historical Context
Van Buren’s economic struggles are not new. The town has faced challenges since its founding in 1833, with a population that has never exceeded 1,000 residents. Despite its picturesque surroundings, including Big Spring and the Current River, the community has struggled to overcome its economic difficulties.
While Van Buren’s situation is severe, it’s important to note that other Missouri towns also face significant poverty issues. For example, Versailles and Mountain View have been mentioned in other reports as among the poorest towns in the state.
Sources:
- https://khmoradio.com/what-is-missouris-poorest-town-nearly-half-live-in-poverty/
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2025-01-07-missouri-city-named-among-the-15-neediest-cities-in-the-us/
- https://937thebull.iheart.com/content/2023-11-14-missouri-town-named-the-poorest-in-the-state/
- https://www.missouri-demographics.com/van-buren-demographics
- https://spotlightonpoverty.org/states/missouri/
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