Aurora, Minnesota, has been identified as the poorest town in the state, according to a report by 24/7 Wall St. This small community, located in St. Louis County on the Minnesota Iron Range, has a population of approximately 1,709 residents. The town’s economic struggles are evident, with a median household income of just $32,287, significantly lower than Minnesota’s state average of $77,706.
The report highlights that around 28.4% of Aurora’s households rely on government assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Additionally, the town has a low educational attainment rate, with only about 18% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median home value in Aurora is also notably low at approximately $67,000, reflecting the economic challenges faced by its residents.
Historically, Aurora was part of a thriving mining region but has experienced significant decline over the years. The once-vibrant community now grapples with the consequences of economic shifts that have left many residents struggling to meet basic needs.
Despite these hardships, Aurora is situated in a geographically appealing area, being close to recreational amenities such as Giants Ridge Golf and Ski Resort and within an hour’s drive from Duluth. This location offers potential for tourism and economic revitalization.
The situation in Aurora serves as a reminder of the broader challenges facing many small towns in Minnesota and across the country, where economic opportunities have dwindled and reliance on assistance programs has increased. As communities like Aurora continue to seek solutions for their economic woes, awareness and support from broader networks will be essential for future recovery efforts.
SOURCES
[1] https://kxrb.com/new-study-says-this-is-the-poorest-town-in-minnesota/
[2] https://www.iheart.com/content/2023-11-13-minnesota-town-named-the-poorest-in-the-entire-state/
[3] https://minnesotabrown.com/2023/02/rich-town-poor-town.html
[4] https://datausa.io/profile/geo/aurora-mn
