All right everyone, I am currently in rural Alabama, specifically in the eastern half of the state. The towns I am about to explore are known for their low per capita incomes, ranging from three to four hundred dollars a week. I’m curious to see if the low cost of living in these areas allows people to survive on such incomes. The first town I’ll be visiting is Camp Hill, with a population of 990 people and a poverty rate of 36.9%. Its per capita income is $15,900, and the median home value is $75,800. The downtown area of Camp Hill shows signs of decline, with abandoned houses and empty businesses. The next town I’ll explore is Dadeville, with a population of 3,051 people. Its per capita income is $17,367 a year, or about $334 a week. The median household income in Dadeville is $24,722 a year, and the median home value is $101,100. Housing in these rural towns is significantly cheaper compared to the national average, and despite the low incomes, there are beautiful architecture and well-maintained homes to be found.
Camp Hill
Camp Hill is a small rural town located in eastern Alabama. With a population of 990 people, it is considered one of the poorest towns in the state. The poverty rate in Camp Hill is a staggering 36.9%, which is three and a half times the national average. Despite these challenges, the residents of Camp Hill make do with an average per capita income of $15,900, which amounts to about $300 per week. This raises the question of whether the low cost of living allows people to survive on such low incomes.
One significant factor that contributes to the low cost of living in Camp Hill is the affordable housing. The median home value in the town is $75,800, significantly lower than the national average of $428,000. This makes it more accessible for people with limited incomes to find a place to live.
As I explore the downtown area of Camp Hill, I can’t help but notice signs of decay and decline. Many houses are abandoned, and storefronts are empty. The town was incorporated in 1895, and it’s clear that it has seen better days. However, among the decaying buildings, there are also well-maintained homes and beautiful architecture. It’s truly a “tale of two towns” with contrasting homes.
Dadeville
Moving on to Dadeville, another small town in Alabama, I am pleasantly surprised by what I see. With a population of 3,051 people, Dadeville has a slightly larger population than Camp Hill. The per capita income here is higher at $17,367 per year, or about $334 per week. The median household income in Dadeville is $24,722 per year, which is still relatively low compared to the national average.
Similar to Camp Hill, the real estate market in Dadeville offers affordable housing options. The median home value in the town is $101,100, significantly lower than the national average. This makes it easier for residents to find affordable housing and allocate more of their income towards other expenses.
As I drive through downtown Dadeville, I am struck by the town’s charm. The downtown area doesn’t show signs of decay like Camp Hill. Instead, it looks well-maintained, and there is a sense of pride in the community. The Tallapoosa County Courthouse stands tall as a testament to the town’s history. Overall, Dadeville presents a more optimistic view of rural Alabama.
Lafayette
One notable figure associated with Lafayette is the famous boxer Joe Lewis. He was born in this town, and there is even a statue in his honor. Lafayette takes pride in its connection to such an esteemed athlete.
Roanoke, a nearby town to Lafayette, is experiencing a declining population. Despite the challenges, Roanoke manages to retain its character. The combination of Lafayette’s historical figure and Roanoke’s resilience showcases the unique aspects of rural Alabama.
Ella Smith’s Town
Ella Smith, a renowned doll maker, hails from a town that bears her name. She was the first doll maker to create African-American dolls, making a significant impact in the industry. Ella Smith’s town is an older town with historical significance.
As I explore this town, I come across some fascinating sights. On one street, there is an abandoned building, a stark reminder of the town’s history and the passage of time. Nearby, an old gas station stands as a relic from a bygone era. Despite the low incomes in the town, there are also beautiful houses that catch my eye.
Exploring the Area
Continuing my exploration, I stumble upon a train and several buildings that have been reclaimed by nature. It’s a visual representation of the slow pace of life in these rural towns. The contrast between the man-made structures and the encroaching foliage is a testament to nature’s power.
Further along, I come across a burned-down building, a stark reminder of the challenges these towns face. However, amidst the ruins, I discover an ice skating rink, showcasing the community’s efforts to provide recreational activities despite their limited resources.
Overall, these towns present a “tale of two towns” with both beautiful homes and those in need of renovation. The diverse architecture and sights showcase the unique aspects of each town.
Conclusion
As my journey through these rural towns in Alabama comes to an end, I reflect on the experiences and stories I have encountered. These towns may have low per capita incomes, but their sense of community and resilience shine through. Despite the challenges they face, the people have managed to maintain the beauty of their homes and preserve their towns’ character.
Next, I will be heading to Georgia for my next series of videos, excited to explore and share the stories of another set of towns and the people who call them home.