Holyoke has been named the poorest town in Massachusetts based on 2024 data, with a poverty rate of 26% and median household income of $49,007. This ranking from RoadSnacks analysis uses U.S. Census metrics like poverty levels and income, placing it ahead of larger cities like Springfield.
Key Poverty Metrics
Map of Massachusetts locations by per capita income.
Holyoke’s 9,938 residents in poverty exceed other locales proportionally. Its economy struggles with manufacturing decline and education gaps, per Census ACS 5-year estimates.
Springfield follows closely at 25.3% poverty, but Holyoke tops lists for small-town metrics. Rankings exclude Boston due to size.
This map illustrates per capita income disparities across Massachusetts, with lighter shades denoting lower-income areas like western regions including Holyoke.
Economic Context
Deindustrialization hit Holyoke hard since the 20th century, with paper mills closing amid floods. Unemployment hovers around 7%, higher than the state 3.5% average.
Community efforts focus on revitalization via tech hubs and tourism, but recovery lags.
Comparisons to Others
| Rank | Town/City | Poverty Rate | Median Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Holyoke | 26.0% | $49,007 |
| 2 | Springfield | 25.3% | $47,677 |
| 3 | Fall River | 19.7% | $52,734 |
| 4 | Lawrence | 19.4% | $53,977 |
| 5 | New Bedford | 18.8% | $54,604 |
Recent Updates
2025 analyses confirm similar standings, with no major shifts by 2026 Census previews. State aid targets these areas via workforce programs.
SOURCES :
- https://www.roadsnacks.net/poorest-places-in-massachusetts/
- https://247wallst.com/income/2025/06/17/the-poorest-town-in-every-state-in-america/
