More than one-third of U.S. newspapers have disappeared since 2005, according to a report from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. The report, titled ‘The State of Local News 2025,’ states that the number of news desert counties — areas lacking consistent local reporting — has increased steadily over the past two decades.
Currently, 212 U.S. counties have no local news sources, up from 206 last year. An additional 1,525 counties have only one remaining source, typically a weekly newspaper. These counties are home to about 50 million Americans, many of whom have limited access to local news, the report said.
Nearly 60% of these counties with minimal or no coverage are in the Heartland, a region encompassing 20 states that together would rank as the third-largest economy in the world. This means more than half of Heartland counties are at risk of becoming news deserts, which can undermine community problem-solving and civic engagement, according to the report.
Experts emphasize that the loss of local newspapers extends beyond missing information. It hampers communities’ ability to address critical issues such as workforce development, affordable housing, and healthcare access. Without reliable sources of information, residents lack the shared facts needed to work together effectively.
Nonprofit newsrooms are working to bridge this gap. Deep South Today, for example, highlights how community-focused journalism can play a vital role during crises, such as Mississippi Today’s coverage during the 2022 Jackson water crisis. The newsroom provided practical updates on water distribution, boil-water notices, and health precautions, building trust and demonstrating journalism’s role in solving problems.
Partnerships are also helping. Recently, Mississippi Today collaborated with the Fuller Project to examine high cesarean birth rates, highlighting both challenges and successful interventions. Such reporting offers actionable insights for healthcare leaders and policymakers.
Additionally, nonprofit news organizations are embracing collaboration. Many produce in-depth, solutions-oriented reporting that is shared freely across outlets, expanding reach and impact. Despite challenges, over 300 local news startups have emerged nationwide in the past five years, with some identified as ‘Bright Spots’ for innovative, sustainable models, according to Northwestern University’s initiative.
However, most of these new outlets are based in cities. Rural and economically disadvantaged areas continue to face growing news deserts, deepening regional inequalities. Deep South Today was among 12 organizations featured as Bright Spots, delivering community-centered journalism across Louisiana and Mississippi.
Research shows that vibrant local news ecosystems lead to higher voter turnout, better policy debates, and greater government accountability. Conversely, areas lacking local coverage tend to experience more corruption, polarization, and civic disengagement.
Leaders across the country increasingly see support for community journalism as a strategic investment. Sustainable models backed by foundations, corporations, and individual donors are vital for ensuring that all communities have access to trustworthy information. As the Heartland faces economic and social challenges, strong local journalism remains essential for progress.
The region’s combined economic output nears $7.5 trillion, underscoring its significance. By fostering collaboration among businesses, government, nonprofits, and citizens, communities can leverage quality journalism to address their most pressing issues and accelerate development.
Without trusted local news sources, the Heartland risks further setbacks. Maintaining and strengthening community-based journalism is crucial for the region’s future and the nation’s well-being, according to Warwick Sabin, CEO of Deep South Today.
