Washington Park
The poorest neighborhood in Chicago is Washington Park. It's also the most dangerous neighborhood in Chicago. However, not all is grim in Washington Park, as the area is known for its churches and cultural institutions and is confronting economic hardship with faith and resilience. With a median household income of $25,362 and a poverty rate of 47.6%, the community remains steadfast in its commitment to community empowerment and revitalization efforts.
Englewood
Englewood is also one of the poorest neighborhoods in Chicago. Englewood faces a median household income of $28,865 and a poverty rate of 39.9%. The neighborhood grapples with a high rate of foreclosed properties and population decline, yet residents remain steadfast in their commitment to revitalization and community empowerment.
West Englewood
With a median household income of $31,800 and a poverty rate of 31.3%, West Englewood is also one of the poorest areas in Chicago. Community-led initiatives and grassroots organizations are working to address systemic issues and create pathways to economic stability and empowerment.
Woodlawn
Woodlawn is another Chicago neighborhood that struggles with poverty. Originally a community of Dutch farmers, Woodlawn grapples with the complexities of gentrification amidst its historical significance. With a median household income of $33,687 and a poverty rate of 33.9%, the community balances preservation efforts with the need for equitable development and affordable housing.
South Shore
Another one of the poorest neighborhoods in Chicago is South Shore. Despite a median household income of $35,455 and a poverty rate of 29.7%, South Shore benefits from proximity to major institutions and attractions, including the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. Yet, economic struggles persist, highlighting the need for comprehensive community development efforts.
West Garfield Park
With no city in America witnessing more shootings than Chicago, West Garfield Park grapples with intense gun violence and economic disparities. With a median household income of $35,904 and a poverty rate of 31.6%, the community relies on unity and collective action to confront systemic issues and foster a safer environment for all.
Riverdale
With a median household income of $36,758 and a poverty rate of 20.7%, Riverdale contends with high unemployment and economic struggle. Despite challenges, notable parks like Golden Gate Park and Kensington Marsh offer residents spaces for recreation and respite.
Greater Grand Crossing
With a median household income of $37,443 and a poverty rate of 33.5%, Greater Grand Crossing embraces its cultural richness amidst economic struggles. Proximity to institutions like the South Shore Cultural Center and the University of Chicago underscores the community's resilience and potential for revitalization.
East Garfield Park
Home to the Garfield Park Conservatory, one of the largest conservatories in the United States, East Garfield Park navigates urban challenges with a median household income of $38,722 and a poverty rate of 35%. Despite economic struggles, the community preserves its natural beauty and cultural heritage, serving as a refuge amidst urbanization.
North Lawndale
Experiencing a 58% decrease in gun violence from 2021 to 2022, North Lawndale is emblematic of resilience amidst adversity. Despite a median household income of $42,212 and a poverty rate of 32.6%, the community is witnessing a resurgence fueled by grassroots activism and community-led initiatives.
Austin
Chicago's second-largest community area, Austin, confronts food deserts and economic disparities with a median household income of $43,191 and a poverty rate of 26.5%. Despite challenges, community organizations are working tirelessly to bridge gaps in food access and create pathways to economic opportunity.
Auburn Gresham
Referred to simply as Gresham, this predominantly African American neighborhood grapples with a median household income of $43,725 and a poverty rate of 25.3%. Despite economic challenges, Auburn Gresham remains a stronghold of identity and community pride, nurturing a sense of belonging amidst adversity.
West Pullman
Home to the largest urban photovoltaic solar plant in the United States, West Pullman exemplifies innovation amidst economic hardship. With a median household income of $52,911 and a poverty rate of 23.2%, the community is harnessing renewable energy to foster economic empowerment and sustainability.
Roseland
Initially settled by Dutch immigrants in the 1840s, Roseland exudes a rich cultural tapestry. With a median household income of $53,626 and a poverty rate of 19.9%, Roseland is home to the main campus of Chicago State University, serving as a beacon of hope for educational empowerment within the community.
Humboldt Park
Humboldt Park, with a median household income of $56,816 and a poverty rate of 25.7%, grapples with the legacy of gang violence. However, residents are resilient, organizing rallies and community initiatives to combat systemic issues and foster a safer environment for future generations.
Burnside
This area, also called "The Triangle" by locals, is home to Illinois Action for Children. With a median household income of $58,186 and a poverty rate of 17.2%, Burnside demonstrates community engagement amidst economic challenges, striving to uplift residents and foster positive change.
Fuller Park
Nestled on Chicago's South Side, Fuller Park emerges as a neighborhood with a median household income of $61,576, yet plagued by a poverty rate of 32.8%. Despite the challenges, Fuller Park boasts the highest concentration of churches per 100,000 residents in Chicago, symbolizing the enduring strength of faith and community amidst economic adversity.