Clarksdale, Mississippi has been named the poorest city in Mississippi by the U.S. Census Bureau. The city has a population of 16,128 and a median household income of $20,064. The poverty rate in Clarksdale is 38.8%, which is more than double the national average of 14.3%. The city has also been struggling with high unemployment rates and a lack of affordable housing.
Factors Contributing To Poverty In Clarksdale
There are a number of factors that contribute to poverty in Clarksdale. One of the most significant factors is the city’s history of racial discrimination. Clarksdale was home to a number of plantations during the antebellum period, and the city’s economy was largely based on slave labor. After the Civil War, many African Americans in Clarksdale were denied access to education and employment opportunities, which led to a cycle of poverty that has continued to this day.
Another factor that contributes to poverty in Clarksdale is the city’s location in the Mississippi Delta. The Delta is a region that has traditionally been economically depressed, and Clarksdale is one of the poorest cities in the region. The city’s economy is largely based on agriculture, which is subject to fluctuations in the market. This can make it difficult for people in Clarksdale to find stable employment and earn a living wage.
In addition to the factors mentioned above, Clarksdale also has a high rate of crime and violence. This can be a deterrent to businesses and investors, which can further exacerbate the city’s economic problems.
These statistics paint a stark picture of economic hardship faced by many residents of Aurora.
| Measure | Data |
| Poverty Rate | 38.8% |
| Median Household Income | $20,064 |
| Population | 16,128 |
| Unemployment Rate | 12.2% |
| Percentage of People Without Health Insurance | 19.2% |
| Percentage of Children Living in Poverty | 60.1% |
FAQ’S
Q. What is the current poverty situation in Clarksdale, Mississippi?
Clarksdale has a poverty rate of 38.8%, more than double the national average, affecting a significant portion of its 16,128 population. The median household income is $20,064, reflecting economic challenges.
Q. What factors contribute to the high poverty rate in Clarksdale?
Historical racial discrimination, limited educational and employment opportunities for African Americans post-Civil War, and the city’s economic reliance on fluctuating agricultural markets in the economically depressed Mississippi Delta region contribute to the persisting poverty cycle.
Q. Are there other issues impacting Clarksdale’s economy?
Yes, the city faces challenges with high unemployment rates, lack of affordable housing, and a concerning rate of crime and violence, deterring potential business growth and investment.
Economic Overview of Clarksdale, Mississippi
- Poverty Rate: 38.8%
- Median Household Income: $20,064
- Population: 16,128
- Unemployment Rate: 12.2%
- Percentage of People Without Health Insurance: 19.2%
- Percentage of Children Living in Poverty: 60.1%
