The poorest town in Vermont is West Brattleboro, a census-designated place (CDP) within the town of Brattleboro in Windham County. According to the 2021 American Community Survey, the median household income in West Brattleboro was $37,734, and the poverty rate was 22.7%. This is significantly lower than the median household income for the state of Vermont ($51,841) and the national average ($51,914).
West Brattleboro is a diverse community, with residents from a variety of backgrounds. However, the CDP is also home to a number of challenges, including high levels of unemployment, poverty, and crime.
In recent years, there have been a number of efforts to revitalize West Brattleboro, including the creation of new businesses and affordable housing options. Let’s look at the factors that affect West Brattleboro’s economy and the tools that are out there to help the people who live there.
These statistics paint a stark picture of economic hardship faced by many residents of Vermont.
| Factor | West Brattleboro |
| Median household income | $37,734 |
| Poverty rate | 22.7% |
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% |
| Cost of living index | 115.9 |
Factors That Contribute To West Brattleboro’s Poverty
There are a number of factors that contribute to West Brattleboro’s poverty. One factor is the high unemployment rate. The unemployment rate in West Brattleboro is historically higher than the state and national averages. In recent years, the unemployment rate has fallen slightly, but it remains above the state and national averages.
Another factor is the low wages in West Brattleboro. Many of the jobs in West Brattleboro are low-paying jobs in the retail, service, and manufacturing sectors. These jobs often do not provide enough income to support a family.
The high cost of living in West Brattleboro is another challenge for residents. The cost of housing is particularly high in West Brattleboro. This can make it difficult for residents to make ends meet, especially those who are already struggling financially.
Limited access to healthcare and education can also make it difficult for residents of West Brattleboro to break the cycle of poverty. West Brattleboro residents may have limited access to healthcare and education services, which can make it difficult to improve their skills and get the care they need.
Efforts To Revitalize West Brattleboro
Despite the challenges it faces, West Brattleboro is a vibrant and diverse community. There are a number of efforts underway to revitalize the CDP and improve the lives of its residents.
One effort is the West Brattleboro Village Improvement Association (WIA). The WIA is a non-profit organization that works to improve the economic, social, and environmental well-being of West Brattleboro. The WIA offers a number of programs and services to residents, including job training, employment assistance, and affordable housing.
Another effort is the West Brattleboro Community Development Corporation (WCDC). The WCDC is a non-profit organization that works to promote economic development and job creation in West Brattleboro. The WCDC offers a number of programs and services to businesses, including loans, grants, and technical assistance.
FAQS
Q: Why is West Brattleboro the poorest town in Vermont?
A: There are a number of factors that contribute to West Brattleboro’s poverty, including high unemployment rates, low wages, and a high cost of living.
Q: What is the unemployment rate in West Brattleboro?
A: The unemployment rate in West Brattleboro is 5.3%, which is higher than the state and national averages.
Q: What is the poverty rate in West Brattleboro?
A: The poverty rate in West Brattleboro is 22.7%, which is significantly higher than the state and national averages.
Q: What is the median household income in West Brattleboro?
A: The median household income in West Brattleboro is $37,734, which is lower than the state and national averages.
Q: What is the cost of living in West Brattleboro?
A: The cost of living in West Brattleboro is higher than the national average.
Q: What are some of the efforts to revitalize West Brattleboro?
A: There are a number of efforts underway to revitalize West Brattleboro, including the West Brattleboro Village Improvement Association (WIA) and the West Brattleboro Community Development Corporation (WCDC). These organizations offer a number of programs and services to residents and businesses to help improve the economic, social, and environmental well-being of West Brattleboro.
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