As of 2025, Baldwin has been identified as the poorest town in Michigan, according to a study conducted by 24/7 Wall Street. This small village, located in Lake County northwest of Big Rapids, has a population of just 1,036 residents and faces significant economic challenges.
Economic Overview
Baldwin’s median household income stands at a stark $22,593, which is over $40,000 below the state median income of $63,202. This low income translates to an average hourly wage of approximately $10.86 for full-time workers, which is only slightly above the state minimum wage of $10.10 per hour. The economic conditions in Baldwin highlight the struggles faced by its residents in making ends meet.
SNAP Benefits and Poverty Statistics
The town exhibits a high dependency on government assistance, with 41.3% of households receiving some form of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. In comparison, only 12.6% of households across Michigan rely on such assistance. This disparity underscores the financial difficulties that Baldwin residents experience in accessing basic necessities.
Housing Market
While Baldwin’s housing market features relatively low median home values at $79,100, the affordability remains a significant issue. Given the low median income, many residents find it challenging to afford home ownership or even secure stable rental housing.
Educational Attainment
Education levels in Baldwin also reflect broader economic trends. Only 12.3% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to the state average of 30.6%. This lack of higher education can limit job opportunities and contribute to ongoing economic struggles.
Community Characteristics
Despite its economic challenges, Baldwin is known for its natural beauty and tourist attractions, including the Manistee National Forest and the Pete Marquette River. These features draw visitors to the area but have not translated into significant economic benefits for local residents.
Baldwin’s designation as Michigan’s poorest town highlights the stark economic realities faced by its residents. With low median incomes, high rates of reliance on government assistance, and limited educational attainment, Baldwin serves as a poignant example of the challenges that can accompany small-town living in America today. Addressing these issues will require concerted efforts from local leaders, community organizations, and state initiatives aimed at improving economic conditions and providing support to those in need.
Source
[1] https://wbckfm.com/study-says-this-is-michigans-poorest-town/
[2] https://www.iheart.com/content/2023-11-13-michigan-town-named-the-poorest-in-the-entire-state/
[3] https://witl.com/high-poverty-michigan/
[4] https://wbxxfm.com/michigan-poorest-town/
