The poorest town in New York State has been determined to be New Square, a community located in Rockland County. The town of Ramapo is home to this little village, which is notable for its extreme poverty and distinctive demographics.
Economic Statistics
The financial status of New Square is dire:
- Median household income: $24,881 (compared to New York s average of $75,157).
- Poverty rate: 70% (the highest in the nation).
- SNAP (food stamp) recipients: 77.1% of households (highest rate in the country).
These numbers demonstrate the community’s pervasive economic distress.
Demographics and Culture
New Square has a number of unique characteristics.
- Population: 9,679 as of the 2020 census.
- Composition: Predominantly Hasidic Jews of the Skverer movement.
- Lifestyle: Residents seek to maintain a Hasidic way of life disconnected from the secular world.
Housing Paradox
It’s interesting to note that New Square has exceptionally high property values in spite of its severe poverty:
- Median home value: Approximately $1.1 million.
- This is significantly higher than the New York state average of $325,000.
One distinctive feature of New Square is the dichotomy of both high property values and extreme poverty.
Employment and Education
The cultural norms of the society have an impact on its economic structure:
- Young women often work as teachers, secretaries, or in local shops before marriage.
- Men may work as teachers, bus drivers, or in the diamond industry.
- Many men study in the kollel (yeshiva for married men) and receive stipends.
- Only 2.9% of adults have a bachelor s degree or higher.
Historical Context
New Square has experienced financial difficulties in the past:
- In 1970, it had the lowest per-capita income in New York State.
- By 2018, it was not only the poorest town in New York but also had the highest poverty rate in the United States.
The economic circumstances of the community are complicated and impacted by lifestyle decisions, cultural elements, and past development trends. New Square retains its unique cultural identity and communal structure despite facing severe economic difficulties.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.