According to recent data, Fort Totten has been identified as the poorest town in North Dakota. Here are some key details about Fort Totten’s economic situation:
Economic Statistics
- Population: 1,042
- Median household income: $30,234
- Poverty rate: 41.7%
Fort Totten’s median household income is significantly lower than North Dakota’s overall median household income of $75,949. Additionally, its poverty rate of 41.7% is much higher than the state average of 9.8%.
Location and Background
Fort Totten is located south of Devils Lake in Benson County, North Dakota. It is situated on the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation, which likely contributes to its economic challenges.
Comparison to Other Low-Income Areas
While Fort Totten ranks as the poorest town overall, other North Dakota communities also face economic difficulties:
- New Rockford has been identified as having low income levels, with a typical household income of only $35,595.
- Porcupine, South Dakota (near the North Dakota border) has an even lower median household income of $18,750 and a staggering 91% poverty rate.
Factors Contributing to Poverty
Several factors may contribute to Fort Totten’s economic struggles:
- Limited job opportunities in rural areas
- Historical disadvantages faced by Native American communities
- Lower educational attainment rates
- Geographic isolation from major economic centers
It’s important to note that poverty statistics can fluctuate, and efforts to improve economic conditions in these communities are ongoing. Local and state initiatives aimed at job creation, education, and infrastructure development may help address some of these economic challenges in the future.
Sources
- https://keyzradio.com/new-report-says-this-is-the-poorest-town-in-north-dakota/
- https://nchstats.com/north-dakota-population/
- https://www.omb.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/news/2025-27-budget-guidelines.pdf
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Rockford,_North_Dakota
- https://us1033.com/disclosing-north-dakotas-poorest-town-in-the-entire-state/
