Baton Rouge, Louisiana, serves as the state’s capital and is its second-largest city. It houses notable educational institutions like Louisiana State University, Southern University, along with various cultural centers.
Yet, it’s important to note that not all areas within the city experience the same levels of prosperity and opportunities.
Some neighborhoods grapple with issues such as poverty, crime, and substandard housing. This article will delve into the five most economically challenged neighborhoods in Baton Rouge, using information from sources including the U.S. Census Bureau.
Brookstown
Brookstown, situated in the north-central area of Baton Rouge, is the least affluent neighborhood. The average household income is just $26,519, and almost a quarter of its residents live below the poverty line. The neighborhood is bordered by Airline Highway, Plank Road, Choctaw Drive, and Greenwell Springs Road.
Approximately 4,600 people call Brookstown home, with a predominantly African American population. The area grapples with elevated levels of unemployment, crime, and violence. In 2020, the Baton Rouge Police Department reported 14 homicides in Brookstown, the highest in any neighborhood in the city.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Poorest Cities in Louisiana
Victoria Gardens
Victoria Gardens in Baton Rouge is a struggling neighborhood. The average household income is $23,658, and nearly a quarter of the residents live in poverty. It’s situated in the eastern part of the city, bordered by Florida Boulevard, North Sherwood Forest Drive, Greenwell Street, and North Foster Drive.
The population of Victoria Gardens is around 2,500, primarily consisting of African American residents. This community deals with various difficulties, including limited education opportunities, health issues, and a shortage of essential services and conveniences.
Read More: Discover the 5 Poorest Neighborhoods in Camden County, New Jersey
Greenville Addition
Greenville Addition is a tiny community in Baton Rouge. The average household income is $23,750, and about 24.4% of residents live in poverty. It’s situated in the south-central area of the city, bordered by Nicholson Drive, Highland Road, Lee Drive, and Stanford Avenue. This neighborhood has around 700 inhabitants, predominantly African American.
Noteworthy for its old homes and structures, some of them dating back to the early 1900s, Greenville Addition faces challenges. A number of these buildings are in a state of disrepair and require restoration or protection.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Cranston, Rhode Island
Scotlandville Heights
Scotlandville Heights is a sizable area in Baton Rouge, situated in the northern section of the city. It is bordered by Scenic Highway, Blount Road, Thomas Road, and Plank Road. The median household income in this neighborhood is $25,000, with a poverty rate of 23.7%.
Approximately 9,000 people reside in Scotlandville Heights, primarily of African American descent. Notably, it is home to Southern University and A&M College, one of the nation’s largest historically black colleges and universities. However, the neighborhood faces challenges including crime, deteriorating infrastructure, and environmental pollution.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Bristol County, Rhode Island
Fruit Town
Fruit Town is a petite district in Baton Rouge, where the typical household earns around $25,000, and almost a quarter of the residents live below the poverty line. Positioned in the west side of the city, it is enclosed by Plank Road, Winbourne Avenue, North Acadian Thruway West, and Evangeline Street.
Home to roughly 800 individuals, Fruit Town primarily consists of African American residents. Its name originated from the fruit-bearing trees that once flourished in the area. Presently, Fruit Town is notorious for its elevated crime levels and subpar living conditions.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Kennebec County, Maine
Conclusion
Here are the five most poorest neighborhoods in Baton Rouge, based on the most recent data. Despite the various obstacles they encounter, these neighborhoods possess valuable resources like community groups, faith-based organizations, small businesses, cultural landmarks, and educational establishments. With increased support, teamwork, and encouragement, these communities can address their challenges and enhance the well-being of their inhabitants.
