Discover the Poorest Town in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a state integral to American history and the birthplace of independence. Known as one of the original thirteen colonies, it hosts the iconic Liberty Bell, the historic battlefields of Gettysburg, numerous natural swimming holes, and the bustling metropolis of Philadelphia, embodying a unique blend of past and present.

Nonetheless, the title of “the poorest town in Pennsylvania” shifts from year to year, as the poverty rate fluctuates among several towns, reflecting a dynamic yet concerning economic scenario. Beyond the celebrated landmarks and urban vibrancy, there exists a narrative of economic hardship experienced by several towns within the Keystone State. 

According to the American Community Survey (ACS) five-year projections on a variety of social, economic, demographic, and housing characteristics of the population, Pennsylvania has a total population of 13,002,700. The median household income stands at a comfortable $71,798, with an employment rate of 60.1%.

However, the economic reality is unfavorable for many, as illustrated by the 11.8% poverty rate across the state, with many cities experiencing poverty rates double or even triple this figure.

The Top Five Poorest Cities in Pennsylvania

What is the Poorest Town in Pennsylvania?

Shamokin is a small town located in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania. This former coal mining town was one of the hardest-hit towns in the United States by the coal industry decline, and it has struggled to recover economically ever since.

The town has a high unemployment rate and a low median income. It is also facing many other challenges, including a high crime rate, drug abuse, a shortage of affordable housing, and an aging population.

Over the years, Shamokin has seen a significant decline in its population. In the 1850s, the population was around 2,191, and it peaked at around 21,204 in the 1920s. However, by 2020, the population had decreased to 6,942.

Are the Residents of Shamokin in Poverty?

According to the 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, the median household income in Shamokin City is $30,711. The survey also sheds light on poverty rates by age: 54.3% for those under 18, 29.9% for individuals aged 18 to 64, and 21.0% for those 65 and over.

Occupations in Shamokin primarily span service jobs, retail, sales and office roles, production, transportation, and business management.

Poverty can have a significant impact on individuals and communities. People living in poverty are more likely to experience health problems, food insecurity, and housing instability. They are also more likely to have difficulty accessing quality education and employment opportunities.

And so, considering all of this, too many people in Shamokan indeed live in poverty compared to the rest of the state.

What Town in Pennsylvania Has the Highest Crime?

The narrative on crime rates within Pennsylvania’s smaller communities reveals a concerning scenario.

While Shamokin has its own share of crime, with a rate of 40 per 1,000 residents — which is significantly higher than the national average of 18 per 1,000 residents — it is still nowhere near McKees Rocks. 

According to Neighborhood Scout, McKees Rocks reported 106 violent crimes per 1,000 residents in 2022, which is more than triple the national average.

Like in Shamokin, the most common criminal activities in McKees Rocks are property crimes such as burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft, although violent crimes like assault and robbery are also present. 

McKees Rocks outpaces merely 1% of U.S. neighborhoods regarding safety, with Borough Center and McKees Rocks East identified as the most hazardous zones.

This stark comparison between Shamokin and McKees Rocks underlines the broader issue of crime and safety in smaller Pennsylvanian towns, often worsened by socio-economic challenges like poverty and drug abuse.

Where is Shamokin, Pennsylvania, Located on a Map?

Shamokin lies in Northumberland County in the central-east part of Pennsylvania. It’s roughly 70 miles north of the state capital, Harrisburg, and around 50 miles east of Williamsport. The geographical coordinates for Shamokin are approximately 40.7884° N latitude and 76.5585° W longitude.

Despite its challenges and the title of the poorest town in Pennsylvania, this is a resilient city with a rich history and “was once one of the economic superpowers of the Pennsylvania Coal Region,” as per Shamokin History.  

The town has several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Anthracite Heritage Museum, the Roaring Creek Valley Railroad, and the Shamokin Dam. Shamokin is also home to a diverse population, with people from all over the world.