According to a recent report by 24/7 Wall Street, Baldwin, Michigan, has been identified as the poorest town in the state. This designation is based on several socioeconomic factors, including median household income and reliance on assistance programs.
Key Statistics about Baldwin:
- Median Income: The average income in Baldwin is approximately $22,593, which is significantly lower than Michigan’s state average of $63,202. This places Baldwin’s income about $40,609 below the state average.
- Education Levels: Only 12% of Baldwin residents hold a college degree, compared to the statewide average of 40%.
- Food Assistance: About 41.3% of Baldwin’s population relies on SNAP (food assistance), which is more than three times the state average of 12.6%.
Community Context
Baldwin is a small village located in Lake County with a population of just over 1,000 residents. Despite its picturesque setting and amenities like an airport, residents face significant economic challenges. The town’s high reliance on food assistance and low median income reflects broader issues of economic opportunity and job availability in the area.
Comparison with Other Towns
While Baldwin ranks as the poorest town, other towns in Michigan also struggle economically. For example, cities like River Rouge and Highland Park are frequently mentioned in discussions about poverty in Michigan due to their high poverty rates and low median incomes.
In summary, Baldwin’s designation as Michigan’s poorest town highlights ongoing economic struggles faced by many communities in the state, emphasizing the need for targeted support and development initiatives to improve living conditions for residents.
SOURCES
[1] https://mix957gr.com/new-report-poorest-town-in-michigan/
[2] https://wrkr.com/ixp/656/p/study-says-this-is-michigans-poorest-town/
[3] https://www.theworkersrights.com/poorest-cities-in-michigan/
[4] https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-michigan/
