New Map Reveals Surprising Spread of Food Deserts Across America

ILSR study highlights lack of affordable grocery options in many communities, especially in Missouri, Georgia, and New York City.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A new interactive map created by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) shows how far Americans live from affordable grocery stores, revealing the growing prevalence of 'food deserts' across the country. The map highlights concerning trends in places like Missouri's 7th congressional district, Georgia's predominantly Black neighborhoods, and even New York City, where high prices and industry consolidation have limited access to healthy, affordable food options.

Why it matters

Access to affordable, nutritious food is a critical issue impacting millions of Americans. The ILSR map sheds light on how the decline of independent grocers and the rise of large retail chains have contributed to the spread of food deserts, leaving many communities without convenient access to fresh, affordable produce and other healthy staples.

The details

The ILSR defines a food desert as an area where at least 500 people live more than 1 mile from a grocery store in urban areas or 10 miles in rural areas. The map shows these food deserts are growing, with major chains like Walmart dominating grocery sales in places like Joplin and Springfield, Missouri. In Georgia, ILSR found that predominantly Black neighborhoods in Atlanta have been left behind as independent grocers and 'megachains' have been pushed out, replaced by dollar stores that typically don't sell fresh food. Even in grocery-rich New York City, high prices driven by industry consolidation make healthy options unaffordable for many residents.

  • The ILSR map and report were published on January 28, 2026.
  • The decline of the Robinson-Patman Act in the 1980s is cited as a key factor enabling the growth of food deserts.

The players

Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR)

A national nonprofit research organization that advocates against corporate concentration and promotes localized, sustainable economic growth.

Walmart

The largest grocery retailer in the U.S., holding over 80% of grocery sales in Joplin, Missouri and nearly two-thirds in Springfield, Missouri.

Price Chopper

The second-largest grocer in the Springfield and Joplin metro areas, with just 10% of grocery sales.

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What’s next

The ILSR plans to continue updating its interactive map to track the spread of food deserts and advocate for policies to improve access to affordable, healthy food options in underserved communities.

The takeaway

The ILSR's map highlights how industry consolidation and the decline of independent grocers have contributed to the growing problem of food deserts across America, leaving millions without convenient access to affordable, nutritious food. Addressing this issue will require a multi-faceted approach to support local food systems and ensure all communities have access to the healthy options they need.