Discover the Poorest Town in Alabama

There are several important factors when comparing poverty rates among cities. The United States Census data for states and cities includes population size, median income, what percentage of the population lives below the federal poverty line, and more. 

According to the United States Census, Alabama has a population of just over five million residents. As of 2022, the state had a median income of $54,943, resulting in 16.2% of its population living in poverty. This is slightly higher than the nation as a whole, which has 11.5% of its population living in poverty.

The Top Five Poorest Cities in Alabama

The state of Alabama is known for its beautiful beaches and hot, humid summers. The state’s oldest city, Mobile, dates back to 1702 and was an economic hub for its saltwater port on the Gulf of Mexico. 

To better understand its economic landscape today, let’s look at the Alabama cities with at least 10,000 residents with the highest rates of poverty.

What Is the Poorest Town in Alabama?

In its early days, Prichard was the location of a station for the Mobile and Ohio railroad. As farming in the area grew in the late 1800s, the railroad offered growers the chance to reach national markets. 

The city’s population peaked in the 1960s with around 47,000 residents. Since then, the city’s economy has struggled as major industries and employers have left the area. Today, Eufaula is the poorest city in Alabama.

Are the Residents of Prichard City in Poverty?

According to the U.S. Census, 30.1% of Prichard’s residents live in poverty. This is quite high compared to the national poverty rate of 11.5%.

What Town in Alabama Has the Highest Crime?

When comparing crime rates, Prichard ranks in the top 10 of Alabama’s most dangerous cities. Prichard has a violent crime rate of 1,193 per 100,000. This is much lower than Anniston, which has the state’s highest violent crime rate of 2,992 per 100,000.

Prichard’s rate of property crimes comes in at 5,650 per 100,000, while Anniston has a property crime rate of 6,250 per 100,000.

Where Is Prichard City, Alabama, Located on a Map?

Prichard is located in the southwestern part of the state near the Mobile Bay and is about 10 minutes north of the city of Mobile. There are three municipal parks in Prichard, as well as a nine-hole golf course and a 10,000-seat stadium.

The city can be accessed by U.S. Highway 45, U.S. Highway 43, or Interstate 165. It is a short drive from the Mobile Downtown Airport. It is over two hours away from the Alabama state capital of Montgomery.

While it may rank as Alabama’s most impoverished city, Prichard hosts regular events and has several historical areas to explore. The nearby nearby Mobile River and Mobile Bay also offer opportunities for fishing and recreation.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Joseph Sohm/Shutterstock.com