This Town Has Been Named the Poorest in Delaware

Published On:
This Town Has Been Named the Poorest in Delaware

Laurel, a small town in Sussex County, Delaware, has recently been identified as the poorest town in the state. With its economic struggles, high poverty rate, and efforts to revitalize the area, Laurel’s situation reflects the broader challenges facing many small towns across America. Here’s what you need to know about why Laurel holds this title and the steps being taken to turn things around.

Key Economic Indicators

Laurel’s median household income is significantly lower than the state’s average, which places it at the bottom of Delaware’s economic rankings. The median household income in Laurel is about $44,600, far below the state’s median income of $72,724. Alongside this, approximately 35% to 40% of the town’s residents live below the poverty line, marking it as the town with the highest poverty rate in Delaware.

Nearly half of Laurel’s households are rental units, highlighting the challenges many residents face in terms of housing stability. The town has also seen high vacancy rates in its housing market, a sign of economic distress.

Historical Context and Economic Decline

Laurel was once a thriving mill town and commercial hub, thanks to its location along Broad Creek. Founded in the 17th century, it served as a center for industry and commerce for many years. However, as the mill industry declined, so did the town’s economy. The loss of these key industries has left Laurel with limited employment opportunities and a shrinking tax base.

Today, while the town is still known for its history, the economic base has shifted significantly. Many residents struggle with finding well-paying jobs or affordable housing, leading to a reliance on rental properties and social services.

Efforts to Revitalize Laurel

Despite these economic hardships, there are ongoing efforts to revitalize the town and address its challenges. Organizations such as the Laurel Redevelopment Corporation and Delaware Sea Grant are working to improve the community. These initiatives focus on building affordable housing, creating new businesses, and enhancing infrastructure. The goal is to attract new residents and businesses to the area, while also providing better opportunities for current residents.

Community projects like creating parks, developing downtown shops, and providing affordable housing are central to these efforts. By improving the town’s infrastructure and business environment, local leaders hope to stimulate economic growth and reduce the high vacancy rates in the town.

What’s Next for Laurel?

Though Laurel’s economic struggles are significant, the town is showing resilience. As revitalization efforts continue, the hope is that these investments will lead to a brighter future for the residents of Laurel. Whether through new businesses, improved housing options, or better community resources, Laurel has the potential to rebuild its economy and become a more stable and prosperous town.

Laurel may currently be Delaware’s poorest town, but it is also a place of hope and determination. With active efforts toward revitalization, the town aims to overcome its economic challenges and build a better future for its residents. If the ongoing projects and investments succeed, Laurel could one day shed its title and thrive once again.

SOURCES

[1] https://wjbr.com/2025/04/28/study-names-delawares-least-livable-city/
[2] https://247wallst.com/income/2025/01/17/the-poorest-town-in-every-state-in-america/
[3] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/07/06/this-town-has-been-named-the-poorest-in-delaware/
[4] https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/slideshows/poorest-cities-in-the-us
[5] https://www.wmdt.com/2023/01/town-of-laurel-rated-the-poorest-in-the-first-state/

Leave a Comment