According to recent research released by 24/7 Wall St. and reported by The Wrangler in May 2025, Lusk, Wyoming has been identified as the poorest town in Wyoming. This small town in Niobrara County carries this designation based on critical economic indicators that significantly lag behind state averages.
Stark Economic Disparities
The numbers reveal a troubling economic picture for Lusk. The town’s median household income is $38,477, which is dramatically lower than Wyoming’s state median of $64,049. This represents a gap of nearly $26,000, meaning Lusk residents earn approximately 60% of what the typical Wyoming household earns.
| Economic Indicator | Lusk | Wyoming State Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $38,477 | $64,049 |
| Population | 1,558 | N/A |
| Poverty Rate | Significantly elevated | 10.7% |
Context Matters When Understanding Poverty
While Lusk has been designated Wyoming’s poorest town based on certain economic indicators, it’s important to view this label in context. Small towns like Lusk face unique challenges that larger cities do not, including limited job diversification, fewer employers, and geographic isolation from major economic centers.
Lusk serves as the county seat of Niobrara County, which itself faces economic headwinds common to rural Wyoming communities. The town’s economy has historically relied on ranching, agriculture, and energy extraction—sectors that have experienced volatility in recent decades.
Other Contenders for the Title
It’s worth noting that poverty rankings can vary depending on the methodology and data year used. A 2024 analysis by RoadSnacks ranked Laramie as Wyoming’s poorest city, with a poverty rate of 24.8% and median income of $50,539. Laramie’s situation differs significantly from Lusk’s, as Laramie is a larger college town with over 31,000 residents, whereas Lusk remains a small rural community.
Additionally, Fort Washakie has also been identified in some recent data as the poorest town, with a poverty rate of 27.1% and median household income of $40,000. This depends on which census data and analytical methods researchers apply.
Why This Designation Matters
Naming Lusk as Wyoming’s poorest town highlights the broader challenges facing rural America. Small towns across the United States struggle with population decline, limited economic opportunities, and reduced access to healthcare and education. Understanding these disparities is crucial for policymakers, community leaders, and residents working toward economic revitalization.
The designation doesn’t define the character or potential of Lusk’s residents. Many rural communities demonstrate remarkable resilience, strong social bonds, and innovative approaches to economic development despite statistical disadvantages.
Looking Forward
Addressing poverty in towns like Lusk requires targeted investment in infrastructure, job creation, and support for local businesses. Understanding the specific economic challenges that rural Wyoming faces is the first step toward developing effective solutions that respect the unique character of these communities while working to improve economic outcomes for residents.
SOURCES :
- https://www.roadsnacks.net/these-are-the-10-worst-places-to-live-in-wyoming/
- https://kingfm.com/laramie-raked-as-one-of-wyomings-poorest-cities-in-2021/
