These Are America’s Poorest States, Ranked
#7: Kentucky
Median income per household: $50, 589
Rate of poverty: 16.3%
Kentucky, famed for its Kentucky Derby, sees a stark contrast toward its eastern regions. Once thriving coal communities now face immense hardships, with places like Beattyville suffering from high poverty, limited jobs, and a prevalent drug crisis.
In January, Kentucky saw 14% of residents rely on SNAP for food support, a figure that skyrockets to 39% in Owsley County, highlighting the significant economic disparities within the state.
