Volusia County, Florida, is a coastal county in the eastern part of the state with a population of around 579,192 residents, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The median household income in the county stands at $52,407, which is slightly lower than the statewide average of $59,227. However, the economic conditions are not uniform across all areas within Volusia County.
Some neighborhoods are grappling with higher poverty rates, unemployment, and lower educational attainment levels compared to others. In this article, we will explore the five least affluent neighborhoods in Volusia County based on data from the Census Reporter.
1. Midtown
Midtown is a neighborhood situated in Daytona Beach, the largest city in Volusia County. It is home to approximately 6,057 residents and boasts a staggering poverty rate of 54.4%, which is more than four times the national average of 12.8%. The median household income in Midtown is a mere $18,750, which is less than one-third of the county average and less than one-fourth of the state average.
Unemployment in Midtown is also alarmingly high at 18.9%, more than triple the national average of 6.1%. Educational attainment is notably low, with only 65.7% of residents possessing a high school diploma or higher, and a mere 8.1% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Historically, Midtown has deep roots in Daytona Beach, originating as a settlement for African Americans who worked in nearby businesses and hotels. The neighborhood has played a role in civil rights movements and cultural events during the 1960s and 1970s.
Presently, Midtown faces various challenges, including crime, drug issues, and a lack of essential infrastructure and services. However, there are ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the area, such as the Midtown Master Plan and the Midtown Cultural and Educational Center.
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2. Pierson
Pierson is a town located in northwestern Volusia County, near the border with Putnam County. It is home to a population of 1,596 people and exhibits a poverty rate of 40%, which is more than three times the national average. The median household income in Pierson is $25,000, which is less than half of the county average and also falls below half of the state average.
Unemployment in Pierson stands at 14%, exceeding the county and national averages. The level of educational attainment is low, with only 55.9% of Pierson residents holding a high school diploma or higher, and a mere 5% possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Pierson is renowned as the “Fern Capital of the World” due to its substantial production of cut foliage for floral arrangements in the United States. The town’s history is closely tied to the fern industry and its workforce, primarily consisting of Hispanic individuals, many of whom hail from Mexico. Nevertheless, Pierson contends with issues related to poverty, low wages, and limited opportunities.
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3. Seville
Seville is another town situated in northwestern Volusia County, near the border with Flagler County. With a population of 614 people, it experiences a poverty rate of 39%, which is more than three times the national average.
The median household income in Seville is $28,750, lower than both county and state averages. Unemployment in Seville is at 13%, surpassing the county and national rates. Just 66.7% of Seville residents hold a high school diploma or higher, and only 6.7% have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Founded in 1882 by Henry DeLand, who also established the county seat, DeLand, Seville derived its name from Seville, Spain, the ancestral home of DeLand’s family. The town once thrived as a citrus hub but saw its fortunes decline following crop damage from freezes. Today, Seville is a rural community with limited amenities and services.
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4. Lake Helen
Lake Helen is a city located in southwestern Volusia County, near DeLand. It boasts a population of 2,774 residents and exhibits a poverty rate of 32%, which is more than twice the national average. The median household income in Lake Helen is $36,250, lower than county and state averages.
Unemployment in Lake Helen stands at 10%, exceeding both county and national rates. Educational attainment is relatively low, with only 78.9% of residents holding a high school diploma or higher, and 16.8% possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Founded in 1888 by Henry DeLand, who named it after his daughter, Lake Helen was conceived as a planned community characterized by spacious streets and large lots. The city is known for its historic architecture and the Cassadaga spiritualist camp, which attracts visitors from across the globe. Despite these attractions, Lake Helen faces issues related to poverty, aging infrastructure, and limited economic development.
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5. De Leon Springs
De Leon Springs is a census-designated place (CDP) located in western Volusia County, north of DeLand. With a population of 3,362 people, it reports a poverty rate of 31.9%, which is more than twice the national average. The median household income in De Leon Springs is $37,500, lower than both county and state averages.
Unemployment in De Leon Springs is at 9.4%, surpassing county and national rates. Educational attainment is also a concern, with only 72.8% of De Leon Springs residents holding a high school diploma or higher, and just 11.1% possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher.
De Leon Springs derives its name from the natural spring that feeds into the Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. The spring was once believed to be the legendary Fountain of Youth, as explored by Spanish adventurer Ponce de Leon in 1513.
Today, it is a popular tourist attraction offering various recreational activities. The area boasts a rich history, with influences from Native Americans, Spanish settlers, British colonists, and African Americans. However, it faces challenges associated with poverty, limited educational attainment, and environmental concerns.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Volusia County, Florida, offers a diverse array of opportunities and attractions, yet some neighborhoods grapple with elevated poverty rates, unemployment, and lower educational attainment levels. These areas confront various challenges, including crime, drug-related issues, and inadequate infrastructure and services.
Nonetheless, they possess rich histories, cultures, and a sense of community. Ongoing efforts aim to revitalize these neighborhoods and enhance their residents’ quality of life. By addressing the underlying causes of poverty and providing increased resources and support, Volusia County can work towards becoming a more equitable and prosperous community for all of its residents.