In a state known for its wealth and world-class cities, the title of “poorest town in New York” stands in stark contrast to the glitz of Manhattan or the affluence of Westchester. According to the latest data and multiple independent reports, New Square, a small village in Rockland County, currently holds this unfortunate distinction.
Where Is New Square?
New Square is an all-Hasidic village located in the town of Ramapo, Rockland County, just north of New York City. With a population of just under 10,000, the village is tightly knit and deeply rooted in its religious traditions.
By the Numbers: Why New Square Is the Poorest
The data paints a stark picture of economic hardship:
Median Household Income: $27,488
(Compared to the New York State median of over $75,000)
Poverty Rate: 64.2%
(More than six in ten residents live below the poverty line)
Unemployment Rate: 8.1%
Adults with a Bachelor’s Degree or Higher: 2.4%
(State average is over 38%)
Households Receiving SNAP Benefits: 70.3%
Median Home Value: $552,200
(Despite low incomes, home values are high due to unique housing demand within the community)
Population: 9,578
Understanding the Causes
Several factors contribute to New Square’s economic profile:
Demographics: The village is almost entirely Hasidic Jewish, with large families and a high birth rate. Many households rely on a single income, often from religious study or community-based work.
Educational Attainment: Formal secular education is limited, with most residents prioritizing religious studies over college degrees.
Employment: Many jobs are within the community, often lower-paying, and there is a higher dependence on public assistance.
Cost of Living: Despite low incomes, the cost of housing remains high due to limited supply and strong internal demand.
Life in New Square
Life in New Square is centered around faith, family, and tradition. The community is close-knit, with a strong support network but limited interaction with the outside world. While economic statistics are bleak, many residents report a high quality of life based on spiritual fulfillment and communal support, rather than material wealth.
How Does New Square Compare to Other Poor Towns in New York?
Here’s how New Square stacks up against other towns with high poverty rates:
| Town | Poverty Rate (%) | Median Income ($) | Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Square | 64.2 | 27,488 | 9,578 |
| Kaser | 60.4 | 30,320 | 5,501 |
| Monsey | 45.8 | 49,630 | 28,287 |
| Kiryas Joel | 43.3 | 40,218 | 34,368 |
| Binghamton | 31.7 | 42,031 | 47,617 |
The Broader Picture
New York is a state of contrasts, with extreme wealth and deep poverty often existing side by side. While New Square’s poverty rate is the highest, other towns and cities—such as Kaser, Monsey, and Kiryas Joel—also face significant economic challenges, many for similar demographic and cultural reasons.
Sources
[1] https://lite987.com/new-square-poorest-town-new-york-state/
[2] https://247wallst.com/income/2024/05/09/towns-in-new-york-with-the-worst-poverty/
[3] https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-new-york/
[4] https://wibx950.com/these-are-the-top-35-poorest-places-to-live-in-new-york-state/
[5] https://hudsonvalleypost.com/the-poorest-places-to-live-in-new-york-state/
