Bastrop, Louisiana, stands as the poorest town in the state with a staggering 46.9% poverty rate, according to U.S. Census data analyzed by Stacker. This Morehouse Parish community of about 10,000 grapples with a median household income of just $20,117—far below Louisiana’s $53,571 average—highlighting deep economic struggles amid rural decline.
Poverty Metrics
Nearly half of Bastrop’s residents live below the federal line, with 59.9% of children under 18 affected—highest among listed cities—and only 912 employed poor adults. Unemployment lingers above state norms, SNAP usage soars, and education lags, perpetuating cycles in a town where timber and agriculture once thrived but factories closed post-2008 recession.
Historical Context
Founded in 1846 as a cotton hub, Bastrop peaked mid-20th century before mill shutdowns gutted jobs; 2020 Census five-year averages peg median income at levels rivaling national lows like Urania ($12,358, 40.4% poverty). Recent 2025 explorations note similar woes in Avoyelles Parish towns (Bunkie, Lecompte), but Bastrop tops city lists for sheer scale.
Comparison to Others
Louisiana ranks among poorest states (18.9% poverty, up 1.7%), with cities like Monroe (36.8%), Alexandria (36.1%), and Lake Providence (56.1%) close behind. Zip codes in Shreveport (71103: $22,267 income) and Baton Rouge (70805: $23,821) fare poorly, but Bastrop’s incorporated status and metrics secure its #1 spot. Many, LA, claims Sabine Parish lows ($18,148 income, 33.5% SNAP), yet Bastrop’s rate edges higher.
Challenges Faced
High child poverty (59.9%) strains schools; limited bachelor’s degrees hinder mobility. Crime and health issues compound isolation 30 miles northeast of Monroe, with infrastructure lagging despite state aid.
Revitalization Efforts
Local leaders push workforce training and tourism via Bayou D’Arbonne; federal grants fund housing, but progress stalls amid inequality. Residents seek diversified economies beyond oil volatility.
SOURCES:
- https://stacker.com/stories/louisiana/cities-louisiana-most-living-poverty
- https://247wallst.com/special-report/2023/04/03/this-small-town-in-louisiana-has-the-lowest-median-income-in-america/
