The state of Maryland boasts a thriving economy, culture, and history. Washington, D.C., the capital of the country, and a number of other significant cities, including Baltimore, Annapolis, and Frederick, are located there. All of these cities are not, however, equally wealthy or rich.
Based on the most recent data from the 2020 American Community Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, data on poverty rates are available for 54 Maryland communities with a population of at least 25,000. Hagerstown is clearly the worst of these locations.
This article aims to examine the different variables that contribute to poverty in Hagerstown and draw comparisons between the city and other Maryland cities in relation to demography, economy, culture, and overall quality of life.
Additionally, we will offer some proposals or recommendations for enhancing the state of poverty in Hagerstown and other Maryland cities.
About Hagerstown
Hagerstown is a city in the western part of the state with about 43,000 people. It has a long history dating back to the 18th century when German immigrants settled along the South Branch of Antietam Creek.
The city became a major hub for railroads, industry, and commerce. Today, it’s known for its historic downtown, cultural attractions, and nearby nature preserves and state parks.
Despite its rich history, Hagerstown faces challenges, leading to a high poverty rate. According to the Census Bureau, 25.5% of its population lives in poverty, higher than any other city in Maryland and the national average of 10.5%.
The median household income is $42,965, lower than the state and national medians. The typical home value in Hagerstown is $160,000, also lower than both state and national averages.
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Hagerstown’s Poverty-causing Factors
Some things that make poverty worse in Hagerstown include:
1. Unemployment: In 2020, Hagerstown’s unemployment rate was 6.9%, higher than both the state (5.4%) and national (6.3%) averages. Unemployment can lead to less money, more expenses, and fewer chances for education and career growth.
2. Education: The high school graduation rate in Hagerstown was 86.8% in 2019, lower than the state (88.7%) and national (88.2%) averages. Education affects how much money you can make, your job options, and your ability to move up in society. People with less education might struggle to find good jobs and earn higher wages.
3. Health care: In 2019, 14.4% of people in Hagerstown didn’t have health insurance, higher than the state (10.4%) and national (8.8%) averages. Health care impacts how healthy you are, how well you can work, and your overall quality of life. Without insurance, people may face higher costs for medical care and have less access to preventive and ongoing health services.
4. Crime: The violent crime rate in Hagerstown was 2,057 per 100,000 people in 2019, higher than both the state (1,917 per 100,000) and national (2,109 per 100,000) averages. Crime affects safety, trust, and community bonds. Living in high-crime areas can cause fear, stress, trauma, and loss.
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How Does the Poverty Rate of Hagerstown Compare to the Other Cities in Maryland
Hagerstown has a higher poverty rate compared to other cities in Maryland. Here are some key points based on data from various sources:
1. In 2021, the poverty rate in Hagerstown was 25.5%, which is almost 60% higher than Maryland’s overall rate of 10.3%.
2. The median household income in Hagerstown was $42,965 in 2019, lower than both the state median of $87,063 and the national median of $64,994.
3. In 2019, 11.7% of individuals under 18 in Hagerstown were living below the poverty line, which is higher than the state average of 8.6% and the national average of 13.4%.
4. Among individuals with disabilities in Hagerstown in 2019, 18.5% of males and 30.2% of females were living below the poverty line. This is higher than the state averages of 11.8% and 15.6%, respectively.
5. The rental rate among poor residents in Hagerstown was 87.8%, surpassing both the state average of 51.6% and the national average of 47.4%.
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Final Words
Hagerstown, as per the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, is the poorest city in Maryland, with a poverty rate of 25.5%. This rate is higher than any other city in the state and exceeds the national average of 10.5%.
The city faces numerous challenges contributing to its high poverty rate, including low median household income, a high unemployment rate, low educational attainment, a high disability rate, and a high crime rate. These issues impact the well-being, productivity, and quality of life for residents.
Despite these challenges, Hagerstown has strengths and opportunities that can help improve its poverty situation. The city boasts a rich history, culture, and potential as a regional hub for industry and commerce.
With its historic downtown district, cultural attractions, and natural resources, Hagerstown can attract both visitors and investors. Additionally, the city has a diverse and resilient community that can collaborate to bring about positive change.
