The central theme of the research is a complex study of the disadvantaged settlements of the Kistelek district in the Southern Great Plain. One of the poorest areas of Csongrád-Csanád county was mapped at two points in time (2014 and 2019) to identify the typical economic and social changes. A complex development indicator was used to analyse the economic, social, infrastructural, social and employment situation of the municipalities. The only town in the district, Kistelek, was ranked first on the basis of the complex development indicator. Kistelek is a service-poor district centre, yet it illustrates the centre-periphery relationship in the region. The district is rich in natural and human assets, which, if used wisely, could provide a breakthrough from the unfavourable economic situation. The analysis has led to proposals for solutions to problems relating to land use, rural society and life in the district, and local economic development.