In 2025, Fort Deposit has been named the poorest town in Alabama, according to the latest analysis by 24/7 Wall St. and U.S. Census Bureau data. Located in Lowndes County, Fort Deposit stands out for its exceptionally low median household income and high poverty rate.
Economic Hardship by the Numbers
Fort Deposit’s median household income is just $20,542, which is dramatically lower than the Alabama state median of $59,609. The town’s poverty rate is a staggering 43.8%, and only 5.5% of residents have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. The population of Fort Deposit is 1,734, and the median home value is $65,400—both indicators of the significant economic challenges facing the community.
How Fort Deposit Compares to Other Alabama Towns
While some larger Alabama cities like Atmore and Selma are often mentioned for their high poverty rates, Fort Deposit ranks as the poorest among towns with populations between 1,000 and 25,000. This distinction highlights the deep economic struggles present in many of Alabama’s smaller, rural communities.
A Stark Reminder of Ongoing Challenges
The situation in Fort Deposit serves as a reminder of the persistent need for economic development, educational opportunities, and support in Alabama’s rural areas. The town’s struggles with poverty and limited access to higher education reflect broader challenges faced by similar communities across the state.
Fort Deposit currently holds the title of the poorest town in Alabama for 2025, underscoring the ongoing economic and social hurdles faced by many of the state’s small towns.
Sources
[1] https://953thebear.com/alabamas-10-poorest-cities-may-surprise-you/
[2] https://247wallst.com/income/2025/01/17/the-poorest-town-in-every-state-in-america/
[3] https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/slideshows/poorest-cities-in-the-us
[4] https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/poorest-states
[5] https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-alabama/
