Falls City, located in Richardson County in southeastern Nebraska, has been named the poorest town in the state according to several recent analyses of economic data. This designation is based primarily on its low median household income and the proportion of residents relying on government assistance.
Economic Overview
Falls City has a population of just over 4,100 people. According to the most recent data, the median household income in Falls City is approximately $40,222, which is significantly lower than Nebraska’s state median of $66,644. This gap highlights the economic challenges faced by many of the town’s residents.
About 10.3% of households in Falls City receive government aid to help cover basic necessities, and 12.5% of the population lives below the poverty line. These figures are higher than the national average and indicate a community where many struggle to make ends meet.
Demographics and Community
Falls City’s population is predominantly White (Non-Hispanic), accounting for over 91% of residents. The median age is 40.6, and the community is largely English-speaking, with nearly all households reporting English as their primary language. The homeownership rate is 68.1%, and the median property value is $86,900, which is low compared to state and national averages.
Comparison with Other Nebraska Towns
While Falls City is identified as the poorest town by median household income, other Nebraska cities such as Wayne and Beatrice also face significant economic hardship. For example, Wayne has a higher poverty rate (25.8%) but a slightly higher median income ($51,399), while Beatrice has the lowest median income among larger cities ($49,537) and a poverty rate of 20.1%. However, Falls City stands out due to its combination of low income and reliance on government support.
| Town | Population | Median Income | Poverty Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Falls City | 4,124 | $40,222 | 12.5% |
| Wayne | 5,973 | $51,399 | 25.8% |
| Beatrice | 12,237 | $49,537 | 20.1% |
Factors Contributing to Poverty
Several factors contribute to Falls City’s economic challenges:
- Limited job opportunities and a small local economy
- Lower property values and limited new investment
- A significant portion of the population depending on government assistance
Despite these challenges, Falls City maintains a strong sense of community, with most residents owning their homes and commuting short distances to work.
Falls City’s status as the poorest town in Nebraska underscores the broader economic disparities that exist within the state. While it faces significant challenges, the town’s resilience and community spirit remain evident. For those interested in Nebraska’s economic landscape or considering relocation, understanding the realities of towns like Falls City provides important context.
Would you like more information on how Falls City compares to other towns in Nebraska, or details on efforts to improve economic conditions there?
Sources:
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2023-11-13-nebraska-town-named-the-poorest-in-the-entire-state/
- https://data.census.gov/profile/Falls_City_city,_Richardson_County,_Nebraska?g=060XX00US3114790973
- https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/nebraska/wayne
- https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/nebraska/beatrice
- https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-nebraska/
