Nevada is a state renowned for its vibrant cities and scenic desert beauty, but amid the glitz and glamour, there are areas facing significant economic challenges. Among them, one town stands out as the poorest in Nevada based on recent data reflecting income levels and poverty statistics.
Sunrise Manor: Nevada’s Poorest Town
Sunrise Manor, a census-designated place east of Las Vegas, holds the distinction as the poorest town in Nevada. With a population nearing 198,000, Sunrise Manor has a median household income of about $43,241, significantly lower than the state average. The poverty rate in Sunrise Manor is approximately 21.4%, a stark indicator of widespread economic hardship when compared to other Nevada communities.
Demographic and Economic Challenges
The high poverty rate in Sunrise Manor reflects various complex social and economic factors. Over 41,000 individuals live below the poverty line here, including a concerning 31.3% of residents under the age of 18. This suggests that poverty significantly impacts families and children in the area, with many struggling to meet basic needs.
The town’s economic profile contrasts sharply with wealthier Nevada regions such as Summerlin or Henderson, where median incomes are much higher and poverty rates lower. Factors contributing to Sunrise Manor’s economic difficulties include limited access to higher-paying jobs, education gaps, and the broader challenges faced by suburban areas on the outskirts of major metropolitan hubs.
Community Impact and Challenges
High poverty rates in Sunrise Manor lead to several community issues, including strains on public services, educational attainment disparities, and increased vulnerability to housing insecurity and food insecurity. These factors combine to create a challenging environment for residents striving to improve their livelihoods.
Despite its hardships, Sunrise Manor benefits from proximity to Las Vegas, which provides some employment opportunities and access to services. However, economic recovery and poverty reduction remain pressing priorities for local leaders and organizations aiming to uplift the community.
Comparing Poverty Across Nevada
While Sunrise Manor tops the list as the poorest town, other Nevada cities also face notable poverty rates. Places like North Las Vegas, Reno, and Carson City report poverty ranging from around 11% to 15%, highlighting that economic disparities exist throughout the state. Still, Sunrise Manor remains the area with the highest concentration of residents living in poverty.
Moving Forward
Addressing poverty in Sunrise Manor requires comprehensive strategies including economic development, improved education, accessible healthcare, and affordable housing initiatives. Community efforts, along with support from state and federal programs, play crucial roles in helping residents overcome barriers and build better futures.
Sunrise Manor’s status as Nevada’s poorest town serves as a reminder of the economic divides within the state and the ongoing need to foster equitable growth for all communities.
This snapshot of Sunrise Manor highlights the realities behind some of Nevada’s poorest areas and underscores the importance of targeted support to improve quality of life and opportunity in economically challenged towns.
Sources
[1] https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/local-nevada/what-are-the-richest-and-poorest-counties-in-nevada-3101674/
[2] https://247wallst.com/income/2025/01/17/the-poorest-town-in-every-state-in-america/
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTHVd8qtqmE
[4] https://955thebull.iheart.com/content/2023-12-20-the-poorest-city-in-nevada/
[5] https://www.homearea.com/rankings/place-in-nv/poverty_rate/
[6] https://www.unitedstateszipcodes.org/rankings/zips-in-nv/poverty_rate/
