In this article, we list and discuss the 5 Hungriest States in the US. If you would like to take a deeper look at the topic and see our detailed discussion of hunger in the US, you can go to the 15 Hungriest States in the US instead.
5. South Carolina
Food insecurity prevalence: 14.5%
Ranked 5th, South Carolina is a state with beautiful beaches and rich history. However, it is also the fifth hungriest one. With over 5 million people, a significant portion of the state’s population, around 742,172 people, still lack adequate nourishment. The state also has higher-than-average crime rates and taxes, along with an unemployment rate of 42.9%.
4. Louisiana
Food insecurity prevalence: 15.2%
Next on the list, Louisiana stands out as one of the hungriest states in the US, and also the second most unhappiest one. With a population of over 4.6 million, Louisiana’s median household income stands at $55,416, and the unemployment rate stands at 44.3%. According to Feeding America, Louisiana’s huger rates are so high due to poverty, racial demographics, the availability of jobs mostly being in low-wage industries, unemployment, underemployment, and low minimum wages.
3. Mississippi
Food insecurity prevalence: 15.3%
Coming third, Mississippi is the third hungriest state in the US, with a food insecurity prevalence rate of 15.3%. In other words, over 453,000 people in the US state of Mississippi are food insecure. It has some of the most versatile and arable farmland in the whole country, but owing to the poverty, rural geography, and complex issues related to food distribution, hunger is still a major issue in the state. According to Feeding America, 1 in 6 people in Mississippi face hunger.
2. Texas
Food insecurity prevalence: 15.5%
Ranked 2nd, Texas is not only the second hungriest state in the US, but it is also the state with the fifth highest homeless population in the US in 2024. With a grappling food insecurity prevalence rate of 15.5%, hunger and poverty remain significant issues among Texans. By area, Texas is the second-largest state in the USA and is home to over 29 million people. The state also has an unemployment rate of 37.9%, according to Census data. Overall, despite a high percentage of the population powering up the state’s different industries, many still struggle to feed their families, underscoring the economic challenges experienced by numerous families in the state.
1. Arkansas
Food insecurity prevalence: 16.6%
Topping the list is Arkansas, a state well-known for its beautiful landscapes and friendly communities. Ranked as the hungriest state in America, Arkansas is also the 4th Unhappiest State in the US. Besides this, according to a 2022 study by the KIDS Count concludes that 23% of the children in the state face food insecurity. According to Feeding America, 1 in 6 people and 1 in 5 children in Arkansas face hunger.
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