These Are America’s Poorest States, Ranked
#13: Missouri
Median income per household: $55, 461
Rate of poverty: 12.9%
Missouri confronts economic woes similar to the Rust Belt, marred by deindustrialization and dwindling domestic demand. Not only do low wages affect service workers but also state lawmakers, who were the lowest paid nationwide in 2017.
In February 2021, after enduring low salaries, lawmakers secured a 5% pay increase. Tragically, 20% of Missouri’s children reside in poverty, with figures soaring to 25% in counties such as Audrain and Randolph, highlighting the state’s deep-rooted economic issues.
