Pahokee, Florida, has been named the poorest city in the state. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 35.9% of people in Pahokee live below the poverty line. The median household income in Pahokee is $22,353, which is significantly lower than the statewide median household income of $61,777. This means that over one-third of the people in Pahokee live below the poverty line. The city is located in Palm Beach County and has a population of just over 6,000 people.
There Are A Number Of Factors That Contribute To The High Poverty Rate In Pahokee, Including:
- Low wages: The median hourly wage in Pahokee is $11.25, which is below the federal minimum wage of $15.00.
- High unemployment rate: The unemployment rate in Pahokee is 12.4%, which is significantly higher than the statewide unemployment rate of 5.0%.
- High housing costs: The median home value in Pahokee is $105,000, which is higher than the statewide median home value of $252,000.
- Limited access to education: The graduation rate for high school students in Pahokee is 60%, which is significantly lower than the statewide graduation rate of 84%.
- Limited access to healthcare: There are only a few healthcare providers in Pahokee, and many residents have to travel long distances to receive medical care.
The High Poverty Rate In Pahokee Has A Number Of Negative Consequences For The City, Including:
- Poor health: People living in poverty are more likely to have poor health outcomes.
- Limited access to education: Children living in poverty are more likely to drop out of school and are less likely to go on to college.
- Crime: Poverty is a major contributor to crime.
- Lack of economic opportunity: People living in poverty are more likely to be unemployed and are less likely to own their own homes.
These statistics paint a stark picture of economic hardship faced by many residents of Florida.
| Factor | Data |
| Poverty rate | 35.9% |
| Statewide median household income | $61,777 |
| Median household income in Pahokee | $22,353 |
| Statewide unemployment rate | 4.9% |
| Unemployment rate in Pahokee | 18.2% |
| High school graduation rate in Pahokee | 54% |
| Statewide high school graduation rate | 80% |
FAQ’S
Q.What makes Pahokee, Florida, known for its high poverty rate?
Pahokee stands out for its significant poverty rate, with 35.9% of its population living below the poverty line. Factors contributing to this include low wages, high unemployment, elevated housing costs, limited educational access, and healthcare challenges.
Q. How do economic factors contribute to the poverty in Pahokee?
Low median household income, currently at $22,353 (much lower than the statewide median of $61,777), alongside a median hourly wage below the federal minimum, plays a critical role. Additionally, an unemployment rate of 12.4%, higher housing costs, and limited educational and healthcare opportunities compound the issue.
Q. What are the key challenges faced by residents in Pahokee?
Residents encounter challenges such as limited access to education and healthcare. The city’s low high school graduation rate of 54%, notably lower than the statewide rate of 80%, affects opportunities for the younger population. Healthcare access is also restricted, compelling many to travel long distances for medical care.
Q. What negative consequences arise due to the high poverty rate in Pahokee?
The repercussions of poverty are multifaceted. They include poor health outcomes among residents, limited educational opportunities for children leading to higher dropout rates, increased likelihood of involvement in crime, and a lack of economic prospects, resulting in higher unemployment and reduced homeownership.
Q. How does Pahokee’s economic situation compare to the statewide averages?
Pahokee faces stark disparities compared to Florida’s averages. While the statewide median household income is $61,777, Pahokee’s stands at $22,353. Similarly, with a poverty rate of 35.9% in Pahokee, the statewide average is significantly lower. Educationally, Pahokee’s high school graduation rate lags at 54%, far below the statewide average of 80%.
