Lincoln Heights, a small village just north of Cincinnati, has repeatedly been identified as the poorest town in Ohio. Despite its rich history and strong community spirit, the village faces persistent and severe economic challenges that set it apart not only in the state but also nationally.
Demographic and Economic Profile
Lincoln Heights is home to around 3,100 residents. The community is predominantly Black or African American, with over 74% of the population identifying as such. The median age is just over 30 years, reflecting a relatively young population.
The economic statistics are stark:
- Median Household Income: As of 2023, the median household income in Lincoln Heights was $17,333, a significant increase from $12,183 in previous years, but still dramatically lower than the Ohio state median of $66,990.
- Poverty Rate: Over half the population-56.5% to 64.4%, depending on the source and year-lives below the poverty line, making it not only the poorest town in Ohio but one of the poorest communities in the entire country.
- Child Poverty: The situation is especially dire for children. More than 90% of children in Lincoln Heights live below the poverty line, a rate higher than 99.8% of U.S. neighborhoods.
- SNAP Benefits: Approximately 63% of households receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, underscoring the extent of economic hardship.
- Home Values: The median home value in Lincoln Heights is $88,600, compared to the state average of $159,900.
Education and Employment
Educational attainment in Lincoln Heights lags behind both state and national averages. Only about 10-12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to Ohio’s statewide rate of 30.4%. The workforce is diverse, with residents employed in service, transportation, manufacturing, and professional occupations, but jobs are often low-wage and unstable.
The unemployment rate in Lincoln Heights is high, and the village’s per capita income-$15,912 in 2022-is among the lowest in the state. Many residents work in food service, healthcare support, and law enforcement, but these positions rarely offer pathways out of poverty.
Historical and Social Context
Lincoln Heights was founded in the early 20th century as one of the first self-governing Black communities north of the Mason-Dixon line. Over the decades, it has faced systemic disinvestment, industrial decline, and social challenges common to many historically Black towns in America.
The community’s struggles have been compounded by broader economic trends, including the loss of manufacturing jobs and suburban flight. Nearby towns such as Blue Ash have median incomes more than twice that of Lincoln Heights, highlighting the stark economic disparities that exist within a short geographic distance.
Community Resilience and Challenges
Despite these hardships, Lincoln Heights maintains a strong sense of identity and community. Residents have mobilized in response to social challenges, including recent incidents involving hate groups and calls for greater accountability from local law enforcement. Community organizations and local leaders continue to advocate for investment, better services, and opportunities for residents.
Comparisons with Other Ohio Towns
While other Ohio towns such as East Cleveland, Portsmouth, and Warren also experience high poverty rates (ranging from 35% to nearly 40%), Lincoln Heights stands out for its combination of extremely low median income, high child poverty, and overall economic deprivation. In fact, Lincoln Heights’ poverty rate and household income are lower than those of any other Ohio municipality of comparable size.
Lincoln Heights’ status as the poorest town in Ohio is the result of a complex interplay of historical, economic, and social factors. The village’s challenges are severe, but its residents continue to demonstrate resilience and a commitment to improving their community. Addressing the deep-rooted poverty in Lincoln Heights will require sustained investment, policy attention, and support for education, employment, and social services.
Sources:
- https://247wallst.com/income/2024/05/10/towns-in-ohio-with-the-worst-poverty/
- https://datausa.io/profile/geo/lincoln-heights-oh/
- https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/oh/lincoln-heights
- https://local12.com/news/local/patience-persistence-lincoln-heights-still-awaiting-answers-after-neo-nazi-rally-nazis-nazism-hate-group-rallies-evendale-cops-police-investigation-movement-armed-guards-guns-gun-violence-patrol-impact-crime-legal-cincinnati-ohio
- https://wcol.iheart.com/content/2023-11-10-ohio-town-named-the-poorest-in-the-state/
