Idaho, known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant communities, also has towns that face significant economic challenges. Among them, Glenns Ferry stands out as the poorest town in Idaho, according to multiple recent analyses and U.S. Census data.
Glenns Ferry at a Glance
- Population: Approximately 1,197 residents
- Median Household Income: $29,219 (Idaho state median: $63,377)
- Poverty Rate: 41.7% (Idaho state average: 11.4%)
- Adults with a Bachelor’s Degree or Higher: 10.6% (Idaho: 29.1%)
- Households Receiving SNAP Benefits: 19.6% (Idaho: 8.7%)
- Median Home Value: $104,200 (Idaho: $266,500)
Why Is Glenns Ferry the Poorest?
Glenns Ferry’s economic challenges stem from several factors:
- Limited Employment Opportunities: As a small, rural town, Glenns Ferry’s job market is narrow, with a heavy reliance on agriculture. This dependence makes the local economy vulnerable to fluctuations in crop yields and market prices, leading to instability for many families.
- Low Educational Attainment: Only about 10.6% of adults in Glenns Ferry hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, well below the state average. This limits access to higher-paying jobs and opportunities for economic mobility.
- High Poverty and SNAP Usage: Nearly one in five households relies on food assistance, and more than two in five residents live below the poverty line-both rates are much higher than the state averages.
The Human Side of Economic Hardship
Despite these statistics, Glenns Ferry is known for its tight-knit community and rich history. The town is famous for the historic Three Island Crossing, a pivotal spot on the Oregon Trail. Residents take pride in their heritage and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that defines daily life.
“It’s a place where everybody knows your name, and you’ll find the kind of hospitality uniquely Idahoan.”
Comparing Glenns Ferry to Other Idaho Towns
While Glenns Ferry ranks as the poorest town by median income and poverty rate, larger Idaho cities like Rexburg also face significant economic challenges, particularly due to their unique demographics. Rexburg, for example, is often cited as the poorest city in Idaho, with a median household income of $46,286 and a poverty rate of 39.4%-largely influenced by its large student population attending Brigham Young University–Idaho.
| Town/City | Population | Median Household Income | Poverty Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glenns Ferry | 1,197 | $29,219 | 41.7% |
| Rexburg | 38,803 | $46,286 | 39.4% |
| Weiser | 5,678 | $41,491 | 21.2% |
| Rupert | 6,066 | $53,348 | 23.4% |
Note: Glenns Ferry is classified as a “town” due to its small population, while Rexburg is a “city” with a large student demographic.
The Broader Context
Glenns Ferry’s struggles are emblematic of many small, rural communities across America. The town’s low cost of living-reflected in affordable housing and utilities-offers some relief, but does not fully offset the challenges posed by limited economic diversification and educational attainment.
Local leaders and community organizations are working to revitalize the economy, attract new businesses, and improve educational opportunities. There is hope that Glenns Ferry can leverage its history, location, and community spirit to foster future growth.
Glenns Ferry’s status as the poorest town in Idaho is a stark reminder of the economic disparities that exist even in states celebrated for their natural beauty and quality of life. While the numbers paint a picture of hardship, the resilience and camaraderie of Glenns Ferry’s residents suggest that the town’s story is still being written-and that brighter chapters may lie ahead.
Sources:
- https://liteonline.com/poorest-cities-in-idaho/
- https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/rexburgcityidaho/PST045223
- https://www.glennsferryidaho.org/https-elmorecountyruraldevelopment-com/why-locate-to-glenns-ferry/
- https://1043wowcountry.com/now-this-is-the-poorest-country-in-idaho-but-why/
- https://www.point2homes.com/US/Neighborhood/ID/Rexburg-Demographics.html
