14 Poorest Counties in Florida
- Glades County
- Calhoun County
- Madison County
- Hardee County
- Putnam County
- DeSoto County
- Dixie County
- Gadsden County
- Taylor County
- Washington County
- Hamilton County
- Hendry County
- Levy County
- Liberty County
Glades County
Glades County, the poorest county in Florida, is home to around 12,234 people. The folks here earn a median household income of $37,221, and the poverty rate is 19.5%. Despite facing economic challenges, Glades County takes pride in hosting the Chalo Nitka Festival, one of Florida's oldest recurring festivals. This event brings the community together, offering a celebration of local culture and history.
Calhoun County
Calhoun County, another poor county in Florida, was made in 1838 and got its name from John C. Calhoun, who was in the United States Senate from South Carolina. With a population of 13,641, the folks here face economic challenges, as the median household income is $41,526, and the poverty rate is 22.2%. The county's history and current statistics highlight the ongoing struggles many residents endure.
Madison County
Madison County, another poor county in Florida, was named after Founding Father James Madison in 1827. With a population of 18,288, the median household income is $43,386, and the poverty rate stands at 21.2%. Despite its historical significance, Madison County faces economic challenges, reflecting the broader disparities found in some regions of the state.
Hardee County
Ranked fourth on our list is Hardee County, nestled in the heart of Central Florida. With a population of 25,425, the county faces economic challenges, as the median household income is $44,665, and the poverty rate stands at 24.7%. Despite its scenic surroundings in the Florida Heartland, Hardee County grapples with economic disparities.
Putnam County
Nestled between Jacksonville, Gainesville, St. Augustine, and Daytona Beach, Putnam County has a population of 74,167. The median household income here is $44,852, but there's a poverty rate of 22.5%.
The county, located less than 25 miles from the Atlantic, boasts ample waterfront property along many lakes and the St. Johns River. This central Florida county offers a mix of natural beauty with its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and various lakes, making it an appealing place to call home.
DeSoto County
DeSoto County, a poor county in Florida, has a population of 34,408, with a median household income of $45,000 and a poverty rate of 24.8%. Despite economic challenges, the county plays a vital role in Florida's agriculture, being a leading producer of oranges, watermelons, blueberries, peaches, olives, and tomatoes. The agricultural sector is a crucial part of the local economy, contributing to both the county's identity and the state's overall production of these fruits and vegetables.
Dixie County
Dixie County, like many other poor counties in Florida, faces economic challenges. With a median household income of $45,057 and a poverty rate of 22.1%, the county strives to improve living conditions for its 17,102 residents. Despite its economic struggles, Dixie County boasts notable points of interest, such as the Old Town Methodist Church and the historic Putnam Lodge.
Gadsden County
Next on our list of poorest counties in Florida is Gadsden County, home to 43,714 people. The median household income here is $45,721, and the poverty rate stands at 26%. Situated in the heart of North Florida, Gadsden County enjoys many industry advantages, making it a place with potential for economic growth.
Taylor County
Taylor County, the ninth poorest county in Florida, has a median household income of $46,239, with a poverty rate of 19.5% among its population of 21,815. Despite its economic challenges, Taylor County is recognized for hosting the annual Florida Forest Festival, showcasing its longstanding title as the "Tree Capital of the South."
The county's commitment to celebrating its natural resources highlights a unique aspect of its identity, even amid economic difficulties.
Washington County
Washington County, the tenth on our list, is named after George Washington, the first US president. With a median household income of $47,536 and a poverty rate of 19.4%, it reflects the economic challenges faced by its residents. The population in Washington County stands at 25,318, highlighting the need for targeted efforts to address economic disparities and improve the well-being of its community.
Hamilton County
Hamilton County, established in 1827, is a county in Florida facing economic challenges. With a population of 13,993, the county grapples with a poverty rate of 23.4%. The median household income stands at $47,668, reflecting the financial struggles experienced by its residents.
Hendry County
Hendry County, another poor county in Florida, has a median household income of $49,259 and a poverty rate of 21.1%. The population stands at 40,313. Despite economic challenges, Hendry County boasts numerous parks and community centers scattered across the region, providing recreational spaces and gathering spots for its residents.
Levy County
Levy County, the penultimate county on our list of poorest counties in Florida, is situated on the Gulf Coast in the northwestern part of the state. With a population of 44,158, the county faces economic challenges reflected in its median household income of $49,933 and a poverty rate of 15.9%.
Liberty County
Liberty County, with a population of 7,900, wraps up our list of poorest counties in Florida. The median household income is $51,723, and the poverty rate is 21.9%.
Notably, Liberty County is one of only two dry counties in Florida, meaning the sale of alcoholic beverages is restricted. These economic and regulatory factors contribute to the unique challenges faced by the residents of Liberty County.