This map shows poverty density (defined as the number of poor persons per square kilometer) for rural subcounties. Poverty density often follows a spatial pattern that is distinct from the distribution of poverty rates. In some areas, poverty rates and poverty density increase or decrease in parallel patterns. In other parts of the country they are inversely related.

Poverty density generally is lowest (shaded in dark green) in remote, sparsely populated areas Many of these areas have drier conditions and lower agroecological endowments.