Gifford, a census-designated place (CDP) in Indian River County near Vero Beach, has been identified as the poorest community in Florida based on several key economic indicators. As of 2025, Gifford’s population is estimated at around 3,691, reflecting a significant decline from previous years—a trend that underscores ongoing demographic and economic challenges in the area.
The median household income in Gifford is strikingly low. Recent data shows that the typical Gifford household earns just $27,765 annually, which is less than half of Florida’s statewide median household income of over $61,000358. Some sources cite the median as even lower, at just over $22,000, depending on the year and data set used. By comparison, the average American household income is about $69,000, highlighting the economic disparity faced by Gifford residents.
Poverty in Gifford is widespread and persistent. Over 52% of the population lives below the poverty line, a figure that is more than four times the statewide poverty rate of about 13%1236. This means that more than half of Gifford’s residents struggle to meet basic needs, such as housing, food, and healthcare. The impact of this high poverty rate is visible in the community’s daily life, with many households relying on government assistance programs and a significant portion of the population living in low-income housing.
Demographically, Gifford is a majority Black or African American community, with over 60% of its residents identifying as such. The area also has notable Hispanic (about 19%) and White (about 18%) populations, reflecting some ethnic diversity. The median age in Gifford is relatively young, at around 33 years, but the community also includes a significant number of seniors and children, both groups that are particularly vulnerable to the effects of poverty.
Education and employment statistics further illustrate the challenges facing Gifford. The unemployment rate is about 5.4%, and educational attainment lags behind state and national averages, with fewer residents holding college degrees. Many people in Gifford work in low-wage jobs, and the average commute time is relatively short, indicating that employment opportunities are likely limited to the immediate area. The homeownership rate is under 50%, and the median property value is significantly lower than the state average, further reflecting the area’s economic struggles.
Despite these hardships, Gifford is described by some residents as having a strong sense of community, with local organizations and services providing support, including community centers, after-school programs, and initiatives for low-income housing development. However, the scale of poverty and the lack of economic opportunity remain pressing issues.
Gifford’s combination of low median household income, exceptionally high poverty rate, and declining population make it the poorest community in Florida by most standard measures. While there are other towns in Florida with high poverty rates, Gifford stands out due to the depth and persistence of its economic challenges, as well as its demographic profile and the limited opportunities available to its residents.
Sources
[1] https://worldpopulationreview.com/us-cities/florida/gifford
[2] https://datausa.io/profile/geo/gifford-fl/
[3] https://www.florida-demographics.com/gifford-demographics
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gifford,_Florida
[5] https://thecapitolist.com/floridas-poorest-town-has-an-annual-median-income-of-just-22000/
