Alorton, a small village in Illinois, has earned the unfortunate distinction of being the poorest town in the state, according to multiple recent reports.
With a population of just 1,864, Alorton is grappling with significant economic challenges that set it apart from other communities in Illinois.
This article takes a closer look at the financial struggles faced by Alorton and how it compares to other towns in the state.
Alorton’s Struggles with Poverty
Alorton’s median household income stands at just $19,605 per year, which is considerably lower than the state median. This significant income gap highlights the financial difficulties faced by many of its residents.
More than half of the households in Alorton—54%—rely on government assistance to meet their basic needs. This statistic paints a stark picture of the economic hardship that the town’s population endures.
Comparison to Other Towns
While Alorton consistently ranks as the poorest town in Illinois in terms of median household income, some reports mention extremely small towns like Wenonah or Mill Creek as having lower per capita incomes.
However, these towns have populations that are so small—often under 50 people—that they are considered statistical outliers. Therefore, they are not truly representative of poverty in communities with more typical population sizes.
For towns with a more typical population, Alorton stands out as the poorest. Its higher population of 1,864 residents makes it a more accurate reflection of the larger issue of poverty in Illinois.
Summary Table: Poorest Towns by Median Household Income
| Town | Median Household Income | Population | Notable Statistic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alorton | $19,605 | 1,864 | 54% on government aid |
| Wenonah | $9,583 | 32 | Extremely small population |
| Mill Creek | $8,317 (per capita) | Very small | Extremely small population |
