East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, holds the highest population among all parishes, tallying 456,781 residents as of 2020. Its hub is Baton Rouge, which not only serves as the state capital but also stands as a significant economic and cultural focal point in the Southern region.
Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that not all corners of the parish experience the same levels of prosperity and growth.
As reported by the U.S. Census Bureau, the poverty rate in East Baton Rouge Parish measured 19.2% in 2021, surpassing both the state’s average of 18.9% and the national average of 11.4%.
Certain neighborhoods within the parish exhibit even higher rates of poverty, underscoring the social and economic disparities present. Based on insights from the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, presented below are the five least affluent neighborhoods in East Baton Rouge Parish, ordered by their median household income in 2021.
Based on the data from the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, here are the five poorest neighborhoods in East Baton Rouge Parish, ranked by their median household income in 2021.
Scotlandville
Scotlandville, situated in the northern part of Baton Rouge, is a historically African American neighborhood boasting a population of approximately 10,000 residents. Established by emancipated slaves following the Civil War, it blossomed into a hub of African American culture and learning during the 20th century.
Unfortunately, Scotlandville also grappled with racial bias, segregation, and a lack of investment, factors that contributed to its economic struggles and impoverishment.
As of 2021, the median household income in Scotlandville stood at $25,813, which is less than half of the parish’s average of $56,076. The poverty rate was 38.9%, nearly double the parish average of 19.2%.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Poorest Neighborhoods in New Iberia, Louisiana
Mid City North.
Mid City North, situated in the heart of Baton Rouge, is home to approximately 16,000 residents. Its boundaries are defined by Choctaw Drive to the north, Airline Highway to the east, Florida Boulevard to the south, and Acadian Thruway to the west.
This neighborhood boasts a diverse landscape, featuring a blend of both residential and commercial spaces. However, it grapples with issues such as crime, urban decay, and a dearth of financial investment.
As of 2021, the median household income in Mid City North stood at $25,602, slightly below that of Scotlandville. Furthermore, the poverty rate was recorded at 36%, surpassing the parish average of 19.2%.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Muskogee, Oklahoma
North Baton Rouge
North Baton Rouge covers numerous neighborhoods situated north of Florida Boulevard, with an approximate population of 50,000.
The majority of its residents are African American, and it bears a legacy of racial and economic disparities, coupled with a history of neglect from both the city administration and private enterprises.
As of 2021, the median household income in North Baton Rouge stood at $24,948, just slightly surpassing the federal poverty threshold for a family of four. The poverty rate was recorded at 39.5%, which is more than twice the parish-wide average of 19.2%.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Poorest Neighborhoods in Slidell, Louisiana
Brookstown
Brookstown, situated in east Baton Rouge, is home to approximately 6,000 residents. Positioned between Airline Highway and Greenwell Springs Road, it’s in close proximity to the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport.
The neighborhood is characterized by its predominantly low-income population, featuring a notable concentration of public housing units and subsidized apartments.
Additionally, Brookstown grapples with elevated crime levels and a relatively low rate of homeownership. As of 2021, the median household income in this area stood at $22,500, which is less than half of the parish average of $56,076. The poverty rate was 43%, more than double the parish-wide average of 19.2%.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Underrated Neighborhoods in Limestone County, Alabama
Zion City
Zion City, situated in northeast Baton Rouge, is home to approximately 3,000 residents. Its borders are defined by Plank Road to the west, Evangeline Street to the north, Greenwell Springs Road to the east, and Hollywood Street to the south.
This community holds the distinction of being one of the earliest established black neighborhoods in Baton Rouge, once bustling with a vibrant array of businesses, churches, schools, and civic groups.
Over time, however, it experienced a decline attributed to factors such as urban renewal initiatives, the departure of white residents, suburban expansion, deindustrialization, and lack of investment.
As of 2021, the median household income in Zion City stood at $17,500, a mere fraction of the parish’s average of $56,076. Moreover, the poverty rate was 51%, surpassing the parish average of 19.2% by over two and a half times.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Worst Neighborhoods in Uinta County, Wyoming
Final Words
These five communities stand as some of the most economically disadvantaged areas in East Baton Rouge Parish, underscoring the urgent requirement for increased resources and opportunities for their inhabitants.
Additionally, they possess vibrant histories and unique cultures that warrant acknowledgment and safeguarding. By shedding light on their difficulties and potential, this article aims to foster understanding and motivate efforts to enhance their well-being and overall quality of life.
