These Are The Cities In The United States That You Wouldn’t Wanna Live In

Alliance, Nebraska

While this small city in western Nebraska is an agricultural center and an important rail hub, residents complain that it lacks more diverse employment opportunities. The city’s largest employer, BNSF Railway, announced dozens of job cuts in May 2020, bringing back memories of the devastating job losses that occurred during the Great Recession of 2008. Before the pandemic, railroads were already experiencing a drop in coal demand, so full recovery could take years. Even though Alliance’s median household income is a respectable $48,805, the city’s unemployment rate is nearly twice that of the state.

Alliance, Nebraska

Denison, Iowa

Denison, Crawford County’s county seat, has a respectable median family income of $54,190, but the city’s unemployment rate is nearly three times higher than the state average of 5.6 percent. As wages at the city’s critical meatpacking plants have been cut, a large number of long-term residents and young people have left Denison in recent years. In the early 2000s, a swarm of mostly Mexican immigrants descended on the city to take their jobs, content to be paid a still-substantial wage. Nonetheless, they have not been able to maintain these positions. When Tyson Foods closed its beef packing plant in Denison in 2015, the city’s economic disaster response plan was activated, affecting 400 employees and triggering the city’s economic disaster response plan.

Denison, Iowa

Helena-West Helena, Arkansas

Although Helena-West Helena is the county seat of Phillips County, it is also a city that has been in decline for some time. The population of the county has decreased by half over the last 65 years. Farmers suffered as a result of drought and industrialization, and other businesses that provided services to these communities were unable to compete. According to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Helena-West Helena School District had half the number of students and half the funding in 2016 as compared to 2007. Other government services are also under threat. Mr. Bruce Hudson, a former alderman who ran for mayor under the slogan “Who Cares About Helena?” blamed the city’s problems on a lack of job opportunities and an abundance of shabby, vacant housing. The average household in this area earns only $22,400 per year.

Helena-West Helena, Arkansas

Lansdowne, Maryland

Lansdowne, a census-designated place in Baltimore County that is frequently regarded as one of the poorest large cities in the country, has even more serious problems than Baltimore itself. Maryland has one of the lowest median household incomes in the country, at $45,500, despite having one of the highest costs of living in the country. The average Lansdowne resident is three times more likely to be unemployed than the average Maryland resident, and he or she is also three times more likely to live in poverty. Even though the FBI does not collect data on Lansdowne specifically, residents claim that the city’s notorious crime rates have not spared the suburb. According to local police, the surrounding county experienced more than 4,700 acts of violent crime in 2019, making it one of the most dangerous in the country.

Lansdowne, Maryland

Clifton, Colorado

More than a quarter of the population in this peaceful Colorado town is poor, and unemployment appears to be more than twice as high as the national average. It has a $43,452 median annual household income. Drug abuse, according to some residents, is becoming a more serious problem in the area. The surrounding Mesa County has a lower rate of opioid deaths than the rest of the state, but in 2019, The Daily Sentinel reported a spike in drug-related deaths as doctors decided to stop prescribing as many opioids, and users instead turned to street drugs like heroin. In addition, criminal activity is becoming a source of concern. The number of violent crimes reported in Weld County, which has more than twice the population of Mesa County, was significantly higher in 2019.

Clifton, Colorado

Spanish Lake, Missouri

According to the St. Louis Beacon, a documentary on the area’s decline describes how Spanish Lake went from being a “beautiful suburbia” to an “apocalyptic ghost town” where jobs were scarce, homes were foreclosed, educational opportunities were reduced, and public transportation was “slower than a snail’s pace.” Middle-class families packed up their belongings and left in droves in the 1990s, causing the local economy to collapse. Deindustrialization and the Great Recession had particularly negative consequences. Spanish Lake’s median household income is currently a little more than $37,000 per year. In fact, over the last decade, incomes and population in St. Louis County have both decreased. According to IRS data, approximately 440,000 people earning more than $10.64 billion moved to St. Louis County, while 492,000 people earning more than $14.05 billion left the same county.

Spanish Lake, Missouri

Wilmington, Delaware

Wilmington, despite being the state’s largest city, is also one of the poorest. More than a quarter of Wilmington residents live in poverty, with an average annual household income of just over $45,000. That could be one of the reasons why crime is rapidly outpacing police spending. Wilmington’s crime rate has increased by 148 percent since the mid-1990s, according to the non-profit Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, while police spending has only increased by 65 percent. Residents don’t need to travel far to find better. Pike Creek, ten miles to the west, was once named one of the top 100 places to live in the country by Money magazine, which is now defunct.

Wilmington, Delaware

Huron, South Dakota

Job opportunities in Huron’s turkey processing plant have drawn an influx of refugees to this meatpacking town in Beadle County, South Dakota, in recent years. Huron is a small town with a population of approximately 2,000 residents. Huron’s population had dropped from 14,000 in 1970 to 12,000 in 2005 before the facility was built. There are plenty of job opportunities in this town — the unemployment rate is only 1.3 percent — but there isn’t much else to do, and a meatpacker’s median wage is less than $14 an hour. Even though Huron County’s median household income is $46,106, one-fifth of the county’s residents live in poverty.

Huron, South Dakota

Fair Oaks, Georgia

This small census-designated neighborhood in Cobb County was named for the abundance of large oak trees that can be found there, which is a great way to stay positive. Apart from the area’s natural beauty, Fair Oaks is known for its low income and poor quality of life, with nearly a third of the population living below the federal poverty line. Even though the median home value in this area is well over $100,000, the median household income is only $38,832. Cobb County, according to the Urban Institute, is one of the most difficult places in Georgia to find affordable housing. According to the most recent data, there are only 18 affordable housing units available for every 100 low-income renter households.

Fair Oaks, Georgia

Makaha, Hawaii

Even though Makaha, a small town on the Hawaiian island of O’ahu, is known for its absolutely stunning stretch of white sand beach, you might not want to live there if you want to enjoy the scenery. It has a median household income of nearly $51,000, which is higher than the other cities on this list but not particularly impressive in such a costly state as New Jersey. According to the most recent statistics, the poverty rate is close to 30%, and the unemployment rate is close to 17%. In those circumstances, keeping a roof over one’s head can be difficult. Hawaii has the country’s second-highest rate of homelessness, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2019 report to Congress. During that year, nearly 7,000 people became homeless on Oahu, according to the Star-Advertiser.

Makaha, Hawaii

Franklin, Virginia

The economy of this small town in the Coastal Plain of Virginia is heavily reliant on agriculture and manufacturing to stay afloat. Franklin, like Bastrop in Louisiana, was hit hard by the closure of an International Paper mill in the area in 2009, which resulted in the layoff of over 1,000 workers. At the time of the report, the company employed nearly 4% of the workforce in Franklin and the surrounding counties, according to the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Even though Franklin’s median household income is not abysmal, at just over $40,000, the city’s unemployment rate is three times higher than the state average.

Franklin, Virginia

East St. Louis, Illinois

According to various surveys, East St. Louis appears to be making headlines for all the wrong reasons, as it is consistently ranked among the most dangerous places in the country. In 2019, you had a 27-fold higher chance of being murdered in this city than the national average. East St. Louis’ economic situation, like that of several other city areas on this list, is similar to that of the others. It is still trying to reclaim its footing after losing a large number of businesses and residents during the decline of the 1960s and 1970s. Nearly 40% of East St. Louis residents live in poverty, with an average household income of 24,343 dollars.

East St. Louis, Illinois

Beloit, Wisconsin

Beloit’s manufacturing industry used to be thriving, as it was throughout Wisconsin, but the city and state lost tens of thousands of jobs as a result of the Great Recession. The median household income in Beloit is estimated to be $43,651, but nearly a quarter of the population lives in poverty, and the city’s unemployment rate is more than double that of the state. Furthermore, the small city of 37,000 people has one of the highest rates of criminal activity per capita of any city in the state. Beloit saw four homicides, 31 robberies, 122 burglaries, and 71 car thefts in 2019.

Beloit, Wisconsin

Newburgh, New York

While the all-Hasidic neighborhood of New Square will statistically take this spot, the figures do not account for significant cultural differences in the community. The city chosen by 24/7 Wall St. for its 2019 cover story is Newburgh, New York. The city is plagued by high poverty and violent crime. It should come as no surprise, given the population’s gradual decline over the last decade. In 2019, 317 violent crimes were reported in Newburgh, which was nearly twice as high as the rate in New York City based on population. Furthermore, the percentage of residents living in poverty exceeds 30%, which is more than double the state’s figure.

Newburgh, New York

Junction City, Kansas

A quick look around reveals Junction City to be very similar in appearance to the rest of Kansas. According to the most recent data, underemployment is higher, but not significantly so, and the poverty rate is 0.4 percentage points lower than the state average. The city, on the other hand, has been trying for years to get out of debt. Junction was on the verge of bankruptcy in 2012, prompting officials to devise a plan to raise property and sales taxes, increase fees, and cut payroll and operating expenses. The city is still trying to pay off its debts in the present day. Residents complain that services are suffering as a result and that living costs have grown out of proportion to wage levels. When it comes to wages, Kansas’ minimum wage remains at $7.25 per hour, while Junction City’s average household income is $53,932.

Junction City, Kansas

Lexington, North Carolina

Due to a plentiful supply of hardwood and low-cost labor, Davidson County’s county seat was once considered one of the United States’ furniture-making capitals. However, in the 1990s, even cheaper Asian imports decimated the city’s furniture industry. This area has a median household income of just under $30,000 and home prices that are significantly lower than the state average. A total of 35% of the population lives in poverty, and nearly a quarter of the working population is unemployed. Because there are few jobs in the area, residents of Lexington claim that most people use Lexington as a low-cost bedroom community from which they commute to one of North Carolina’s larger cities.

Lexington, North Carolina

Bastrop, Louisiana

Bastrop’s population has been steadily declining since 2000 as a result of the closure of major employers such as the century-old International Paper Co. mill and the Pilgrim’s Pride poultry plant. “That was the viable industry, and no one had any reason to believe there was anything else. We use to talk about diversifying the economy, most communities do, but that was the horse we rode to get here,” Clarence Hawkins, a former mayor, spoke with KNOE 8 News. According to the current mayor, Henry Cotton, Bastrop will make a comeback by growing local businesses and the technology industry, rather than wooing new manufacturers. However, the average household income in this city is only $20,117 at the moment.

Bastrop, Louisiana

Altus, Oklahoma

The Altus Air Force Base is located in Jackson County, Oklahoma, and the city’s population of about 60,000 people is supported by agriculture, health care, and the volatile fossil fuel industry. The oil and gas industry in Altus provides some of the city’s best-paying jobs, but the Pauls Valley Democrat reports that the industry in Oklahoma has lost over 20,000 jobs in the last two years, with the most significant loss occurring during the pandemic. According to the Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma, at the end of 2020, the state had 13 active drilling rigs, down from 148 at the end of 2018. Altus has a respectable median household income of $47,691 and poverty and unemployment rates that are comparable to the state average. Wall Street, on the other hand, deducted points for food security 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. According to the website, 86 percent of Jackson County residents live in low-access areas, which are defined as being more than a mile away from a grocery store in urban areas and more than 10 miles away in rural areas.

Altus, Oklahoma

Robstown, Texas

You’re taking a big risk by deciding to live in the city that gave birth to Texas hold’em. According to Money magazine, this Nueces County suburb of Corpus Christi is ranked as Texas’ worst place to live, with poverty rates exceeding 40% and a high prevalence of drug use. Robstown has a fifth of the population living in poverty, and the median household income is only $35,504, though some residents believe addiction is the real issue. The Caller-Times reports that Nueces County has one of Texas’ highest overdose death rates, with 10.4 deaths per 100,000 people.

Robstown, Texas

Southbridge Town, Massachusetts

Southbridge Town in Worcester County was never able to reclaim its former glory after the American Optical Company left in the 1990s. The former American Optometric campus, according to the Telegram & Gazette, was once the world’s largest manufacturer of optometric products. The sprawling site is slated for redevelopment, and a trio of fountains paying homage to the old campus was recently unveiled. Even the switch that was used to turn them on was made out of reclaimed AO building materials. Manufacturing is the region’s largest industry, even though it has been declining for some time. The manufacturing sector in Greater Worcester has lost half of its jobs since 1990, according to the Worcester Business Journal. Overall job growth had been improving, but the economy came to a halt in 2018 and 2019, after a decade of expansion. The city’s median household income is $51,270.

Southbridge Town, Massachusetts

Parkland, Washington

Parkland, Washington, is an unincorporated suburb of Tacoma that does not have to deal with the age-old “Aroma of Tacoma” — an industrial stench that still lingers in the port city on occasion — but its economic woes are even worse. It has a much higher unemployment and poverty rate than the rest of the state, and only 17% of adults over 25 have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Parkland, on the other hand, has a respectable median household income of $55,000, which is higher than the state average. Residents claim that Pacific Lutheran University’s presence benefits the community economically and culturally, but that the benefit doesn’t extend much beyond the university’s grounds.

Parkland, Washington

Cloquet, Minnesota

Even after a fire fueled by dry tinder engulfed the town and destroyed much of the surrounding area in 1918, Cloquet’s history is so intertwined with the lumber industry that it has earned the nickname “Wood City.” Over the course of more than a century, Cloquet’s paper mill, matchstick plant, and ceiling tile factory have all provided hundreds of jobs to Minnesotans, but that way of life appears to be on its way out. In 2017, the matchstick factory in Cloquet closed its doors. According to MarketPlace Research, jobs in wood manufacturing and paper mills in Minnesota have decreased by more than 30% and 20%, respectively, over the previous decade. Residents claim that outside of the two remaining factories, there are few job opportunities and that there isn’t much to do besides exploring the surrounding nature. In this area, the median household income is slightly higher than $54,000.

Cloquet, Minnesota

New Kingman-Butler, Arizona

Despite its proximity to the Mohave County city of Kingman, however, this unincorporated community has fared much worse than the city to the south. The median household income in New Kingman-Butler is $34,243, compared to $49,029 in Kingman, for a total of $34,243. Even though only 7.7% of the population has a bachelor’s degree, the rate in Kingman is roughly 10% higher. Kingman isn’t exactly a paradise in and of itself. Residents claim there is little to do and few job opportunities aside from unskilled labor and the local hospital. There is, however, one major draw: the area’s mild climate and mountainous terrain provide excellent hiking opportunities.

New Kingman-Butler, Arizona

Muscoy, California

This small census-designated place in San Bernardino County competes with the county seat for the title of the poorest city in California. Around 40% of the population lives in poverty, and the unemployment rate is about ten percentage points higher than the state average. This city’s median household income is $41,981, which is not bad when compared to some of the other cities on this list, but not great when compared to California’s high cost of living. According to the locals, crime is a constant companion. Muscoy isn’t listed in the FBI data that’s currently available, but San Bernardino County reported 1,500 violent crimes in 2019 — the same as San Diego County, which has over a million more residents.

Muscoy, California

Havre, Montana

In 2018, this tiny Hill County town lost three major stores — Kmart, Sears Hometown Stores, and Herberger’s — and closed its Holiday Village Mall, displacing hundreds of workers. Despite the area’s relatively diverse economy, residents were shaken by the string of closures, according to The Havre Herald’s series “Is Havre Dying or Evolving?” Despite having a median household income of $48,294, this area’s unemployment and poverty rates are both higher than the state average. The Havre Herald, which went out of business a few years later, predicted that Montana’s high quality of life and the proliferation of remote work would aid Havre’s transition.

Havre, Montana

Kalifornsky, Alaska

This census-designated place of approximately 8,100 people, located in the Kenai Peninsula Borough, is primarily supported by the oil and gas industry, similar to the rest of Alaska. Thousands of jobs have been lost in Alaska in recent years as oil companies like BP relocate to areas with better prospects. Kalifornsky’s other major industries are timber and fishing. Even though the median household income in Kalifornsky is a respectable $88,984, houses there are extremely expensive. Another disadvantage is the lack of libraries and post offices in Kalifornsky.

Kalifornsky, Alaska

Selma, Alabama

The city of Selma, Alabama, is best known for its role in the civil rights movement, which included several marches across the infamous Edmund Pettus Bridge. Long before the pandemic, however, the city was plagued by high unemployment. Even those who are employed in Selma are primarily low-wage workers; the city’s median household income is $24,820. According to a statement published in the Selma Times-Journal by its executive director, even though most businesses in town are now family-owned, the children of those families have expressed no interest in remaining in the city for the foreseeable future. Selma’s lack of entertainment options may have something to do with it. In the city, there is only one movie theater with only one screen.

Selma, Alabama

Manchester, New Hampshire

Even though New Hampshire is a wealthy state, a scarcity of affordable housing has made homelessness a serious issue in the state’s largest city. According to the Census Bureau, nearly 15% of the population in Manchester lives below the poverty line, making New Hampshire one of the states with the most significant increases in income inequality in the country. Despite this, the city’s median household income is $60,711, which is higher than the other cities on this list’s median household income. Residents with a high level of education have done well, whereas the decline of traditional industries like paper mills has left many working-class people unable to meet their basic needs.

Manchester, New Hampshire

Avon Park, Florida

According to locals, no poems have been written about this historic district in Highlands County, which was named after Shakespeare’s hometown. Avon Park’s average household income is only $30,750, and a third of the city’s population lives in poverty. Almost 20% of the population is unemployed, which is more than three times the state average. In the sleepy town, young people and retirees alike will find little to do, and everyone in between will struggle to find work to support themselves and their families. Housing is very reasonably priced if you can come up with a compelling reason to live in the area.

Avon Park, Florida

Chaparral, New Mexico

This unincorporated community in New Mexico has no state government of its own, limited access to public services, and a scarcity of well-paying employment opportunities. More than 40% of Chaparral’s population is considered impoverished. The city’s median household income is only $24,665, according to Searchlight New Mexico, and the city’s two largest employers are prison and an immigration detention center, respectively. Despite the community’s median home value of slightly more than $71,000, according to Searchlight New Mexico, the majority of Chaparral residents purchase land or mobile homes through real estate contracts rather than mortgages. Instead of charging extremely high-interest rates, these arrangements typically do not require the use of good credit history or a significant down payment, according to the publication.

Chaparral, New Mexico

Johnstown, Pennsylvania

The rise of international trade, combined with a significant decline in the manufacturing industry, has wreaked havoc on Johnstown and other Rust Belt cities since the 1980s. The city of Johnstown, in particular, has been hit the hardest. Thousands of people have left the town over the years, leaving behind a large number of abandoned buildings. The median household income in this community is only $24,561, less than half the state median, and nearly 40% of the population lives below the federal poverty line. Residents claim that “The Friendly City” hasn’t lost any of its friendliness, but the city’s serious drug and crime problems have taken away some of the city’s luster.

Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Middlesboro, Kentucky

Middlesboro, the largest city in southeast Kentucky, is not a place where even a mediocre living can be expected. The city’s median household income is only $25,488, less than half of the state’s median household income. According to the city, more than 40% of Middlesboro residents live in poverty, and only one out of every ten residents has a bachelor’s degree. In 2019, coal employment in Eastern Kentucky declined significantly, particularly after bankrupt energy company Blackjewel was forced to close and checks began to bounce. There have been plans to expand the tourism industry by utilizing the region’s natural beauty and offering tours of abandoned coal mines, but those plans are still a long way off.

Middlesboro, Kentucky

Minot, North Dakota

According to the latest report, despite its nickname, North Dakota’s “Magic City” has lost some of its lusters as a result of high housing costs, which have become a problem throughout the state. According to the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency, approximately 17.5 percent of North Dakota homeowners with an active mortgage and ten percent of homeowners without an active mortgage spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing-related expenses. While the median home price in this area is slightly higher than the rest of the state, at $204,000, the median household income is significantly lower, at $66,000. Many residents have complained about the bitterly cold winters, a lack of entertainment, and high property taxes, but food insecurity, according to 24/7 Wall St., is the main reason for Minot’s inclusion on the list. According to the report, more than two-thirds of the county’s population lives in urban areas within one mile of a grocery store or rural areas within ten miles of one.

Minot, North Dakota

Middletown, Ohio

Middletown, which was once a thriving manufacturing center thanks to the presence of AK Steel, has been on a long and steady decline for decades. In 2006, the steelmaker was forced to lockout nearly 2,700 workers after hundreds of job cuts and a protracted contract dispute. Former Middletown city manager Doug Atkins claims that some of the city’s neighborhoods are 80 percent to 90 percent rented and that the majority of the properties in these areas are dilapidated and low in value when compared to the surrounding communities. More than a quarter of the city’s residents are poor. The average annual household income is $40,347.

Middletown, Ohio

Bangor, Maine

Bangor was once known as the “lumber capital of the world,” but according to the city administration, it has successfully redefined itself and is now considered a significant commercial center for retail and service businesses in Maine. Even though the new economy has begun to recover from the Great Recession of 2007–2009, it has yet to reach its full potential. According to the Bangor Daily News, more than a fifth of Bangor residents live in poverty, and despite the city having Maine’s third-largest school district, more than half of the students qualify for free or reduced-price lunches. The area’s median household income is $46,625. (According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.)

Altamont, Oregon

This census-designated place was named after a famous racehorse, according to legend, and it currently lags far behind the rest of the country. Altamont is one of only three communities in Oregon where incomes are actually declining, according to OregonLive. Between 2010 and 2018, wages in Newport and St. Helens fell by a combined 5%, making them the only cities to do so. The median household income in this area is close to $47,000, compared to $63,000 for the entire state. According to the census, home values are half of the state median value, and one-fifth of the population lives in poverty.

Altamont, Oregon

Natchez, Mississippi

Even though it was the state’s first capital, this Mississippi River town has seen better days. According to Mississippi Today, Natchez has struggled to attract industry and has been losing young people since the 1990s because it is more than an hour away from the nearest interstate. The median household income is $26,443, which is a pitiful amount. Locals told the news organization that the remaining children in the area are not attending school, which bodes ill for their educational future. The Natchez-Adams school district received a D grade from the Mississippi Department of Education in 2019.

Natchez, Mississippi

Central Falls, Rhode Island

The smallest city in the smallest state was forced to declare bankruptcy in 2010, raising taxes and drastically reducing the number of public employees and retiree pensions available. Central Falls lost its textile mills and factories, as did the rest of the state, but the city’s high expenses and reductions in state aid forced it into bankruptcy. Boarded-up multi-family homes with overgrown sidewalks stood in stark contrast to stately churches and tidy bungalows, according to the news agency Reuters. Despite a slight increase in recent years, the median household income remains below $33,000, and nearly a third of the population lives in poverty.

Central Falls, Rhode Island

Parker, South Carolina

The effects of Greenville County’s rapid population growth are particularly noticeable in this small town. While the economic boom has brought employment and wealth to some, wages for Parker’s poorer residents have remained stagnant. The effects of gentrification are making it much more difficult to afford the necessities of life, even though the median household income in Parker remains around $34,000. According to a United Way of Greenville County study, nearly half of renters in the Parker-Westcliffe neighborhood spent more than 35% of their income on rent. Only about 15% of renters spent that much money on their rental property in 1990.

Parker, South Carolina

Camden, New Jersey

Camden is one of the poorest areas in the country, with a history of violence, corruption, and the use of illegal drugs like marijuana. As a result of the city’s poor reputation, an ex-resident paid for a billboard in 2012 urging people to “Say something nice about Camden.” To tell you the truth, saying it is easier than doing it! Camden has lost its prominence as a major manufacturing center, with an unemployment rate more than double that of the state and nearly 37 percent of the population living in poverty. The city once housed RCA Victor, Campbell’s Soup, and a major shipbuilder, but now has a median household income of just $27,015. Camden police reported 1,159 violent crimes in 2019, even though it has twice the population of Paterson. This is roughly the same as the number of violent crimes reported in Paterson, New Jersey in 2019.

Camden, New Jersey

Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville, unlike the majority of the other cities on this list, has a lot to be proud of: large corporations, top-ranked schools, beautiful parks, and a long and illustrious musical history. Unfortunately, not everyone has equal access to resources: According to Bloomberg, Knoxville was named one of the worst cities in the country for widening income disparities in 2019. More than a quarter of Knoxville’s residents live in poverty, with the city’s median household income hovering around $40,000. In September 2020, the local police department admitted that violent crime was on the rise, citing the fact that the city had seen 28 homicides so far this year, compared to 22 homicides for the entire year of 2019.

Knoxville Tennessee

Thompsonville, Connecticut

The mills of “Carpet City” were once major textile producers, but the industry was decimated in the mid-1900s by a series of closures, sales, and consolidations. According to the most recent census data, the average household income in this Hartford County town is $80,125, but more than a quarter of the population lives in poverty. According to the Hartford Courant, the state has been dealing with an increase in drug overdoses, with Hartford County accounting for 1,590 out of 4,505 total overdoses in the most recent year of tracking.

Thompsonville, Connecticut

Rawlins, Wyoming

The demand for fossil fuels is dwindling, and many people believe Wyoming’s ability to rely on its reserves is coming to an end. This town in Carbon County is feeling the effects of the recession, which has earned it a spot on the 24/7 Wall St. list. The financial figures for Rawlins are similar to those for the rest of the state. The median household income in Wyoming is $64,336, which is slightly higher than the state’s overall median household income. Wyoming is the nation’s leading coal producer, but the Powder River Basin in the state’s northernmost region produces the majority of the state’s coal. Even though billions of tons of coal are buried deep beneath the earth’s surface in southern Wyoming, mining companies have determined that it is too expensive to mine at this time. Apart from the industrial problems, some residents find the small town charming, while others lament the lack of recreational opportunities.

Rawlins, Wyoming

Barre, Vermont

It’s worth noting that while this Vermont city — not to be confused with nearby Barre Town — is well-known for its granite quarries, it’s also gaining a reputation for its drug problem. The state’s attorney for Washington County stated at a public forum in 2018 that the city is experiencing a “drug epidemic,” and that crack cocaine and other illegal drugs are just as prevalent as opiates. According to the FBI, there were 64 violent crimes and 203 property crimes in Barre in 2019, both of which are high numbers given the town’s population of 8,500 people. With a median household income of just over $38,000, more than a quarter of the population in Barre is estimated to be poor.

Barre, Vermont

Blackfoot, Idaho

Even though Blackfoot is home to the Idaho Potato Museum and the world’s largest potato chip factory, the town’s thriving potato industry has tarnished its image. As a result of the city’s heavy reliance on its agricultural industry — according to East Idaho News, Bingham County produces 20% of the state’s potatoes — job opportunities in other fields are somewhat limited in the city. Food insecurity is, ironically, the primary reason for Blackfoot’s inclusion on this list. According to a report by the financial news website 24/7 Wall St, more than three-quarters of the population lives in urban areas within one mile of a grocery store or rural areas within ten miles of one. Despite this, many locals are satisfied with the local economy and the small-town atmosphere. When compared to the rest of the country, the average household income in Blackfoot is $48,750, and the unemployment rate is lower than the state average.

Blackfoot, Idaho

Beecher, Michigan

Even though the Idaho Potato Museum and the world’s largest potato chip factory are located in Blackfoot, the town’s thriving potato industry has tarnished its image. Because of the city’s heavy reliance on agriculture — according to East Idaho News, Bingham County produces 20% of the state’s potatoes — job opportunities in other fields are limited. Ironically, food insecurity is the main reason for Blackfoot’s inclusion on this list. More than three-quarters of the population lives within one mile of a grocery store in urban areas or within ten miles of one in rural areas, according to a report by the financial news website 24/7 Wall St. Despite this, many residents are content with the local economy and small-town feel. The average household income in Blackfoot is $48,750, which is lower than the national average, and the unemployment rate is lower than the state average.

Beecher, Michigan

Huntington, West Virginia

Huntington, West Virginia, is known for its breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains, but the city’s reputation has been tainted for decades by the opioid crisis that engulfed the city. One in every five babies born at Cabell Huntington Hospital, the city’s largest hospital, is born to a mother who used opioids while pregnant, according to a CNN report from 2019. Approximately a third of the local population is considered to be poor. This area’s median household income is $31,162, which is less than half of the national average.

Huntington, West Virginia

East Chicago, Indiana

Marktown, a neighborhood in East Chicago founded in 1917 for employees of Clayton Mark’s steel pipe manufacturing company, is located there. The historical and architectural oddity appears to be the only town in the United States where cars are parked on the sidewalk and residents walk down the road to arrive on time. Unfortunately, that is about the only thing that draws people in. East Chicago has a high poverty rate, a high unemployment rate, and a low household income; the median household income is only $32,839. As a result of the city’s industrial past, some of East Chicago’s lands have been contaminated with high levels of lead and arsenic. The former West Calumet Housing Complex, which was built on the site of a former lead smelter, was ordered to be evacuated by the mayor. In 2016, the evacuation took place.

East Chicago, Indiana

Vernal, Utah

Vernal, Utah, is heavily reliant on the oil industry and is suffering as demand for fossil fuels declines. According to the Utah Geological Survey, crude production in the state is expected to drop by 20% in 2020, with another 10% drop expected in 2021. The surrounding Uintah County has been the state’s primary oil producer for more than 70 years, according to Mother Jones, but the ups and downs of the oil industry have taken a toll on the locals’ quality of life. Even though Vernal’s median household income is currently over $48,000, a fifth of the city’s residents are poor, and the unemployment rate is more than twice that of the rest of the state.

Vernal, Utah

Now that we’ve seen what cities in each state you should avoid when you want to move somewhere, that doesn’t mean that the rest of the state are equally as bad as its worst city. Which is why we’re changing things up a bit! This time, we’d be taking a look at the places you might want to move to (or not) for your retirement! Yes, we may have already talked about some of the negative things about some cities, but this time, we would be helping you out with your retirement plan.

Hawaii

Most retirees in the tropical state prefer to live in Maunawili, O’ahu, according to Niche.com. In addition, the state has a population of 1.4 million people. Because of its almost ethereal natural beauty, it is very appealing to people who are passionate. The average annual income for people aged 65 and up is more than $71,000. Hawaii’s cost of living is 87 percent higher than the national average, making it a poor choice for those hoping to stretch their savings for a long time.

Hawaii

California

If you want to live somewhere sunny, California is a good option. It is only second to Hawaii in terms of living costs, with prices 52 percent higher than the national average. The Golden State has a population of 39.56 million people, so it is not ideal for those seeking solitude. Retirees claim that Beverly Hills has the best zip code in the world, despite the high costs. According to the United States Census Bureau, 19% of the population lives in poverty, so it’s a good idea to have a job lined up before making the big move.

California

Massachusetts

People who make up the retiree population should consider the Bay State as well. There is no shortage of things to do for culture lovers in this town because it is steeped in history. As of 2018, it has a population of 6.902 million people. Northampton, according to Forbes, is the best city in the state. However, living costs are still quite high, being 38% higher than the national average. Keep in mind that healthcare is both costly and tax-inefficient. If you can’t stand the cold, you should probably look elsewhere.

Massachusetts

Alaska

Although few people take advantage of this fact, the Last Frontier is very tax-friendly for retirees. According to Yahoo! Finance, Anchorage is the best city to live in. The cost of living in Alaska is 32 percent higher than the national average, according to Kiplinger. If you are a senior citizen, you should think about health-care costs, which may cause you to reconsider. The population of this state is 730,000 people. It’s all about the quiet life here, so if you’re looking for a big city lifestyle, this isn’t the place for you.

Alaska

New Jersey

New Jersey is a wonderful place to live, especially for retirees. If you’re thinking about relocating, Long Beach Township is a good place to start. It has an ideal population of 8.909 million people. Ocean City offers spectacular views of the water, and New York City is only a train ride away. Because of its rich history, history buffs will enjoy it here as well. The cost of living is 27 percent higher than the national average when compared to South Dakota and Montana. Medical care and property taxes are also more expensive. For low-income retirees, the Garden State is not the best place to live.

New Jersey

Connecticut

This East Coast state, with a population of 3.573 million people, is also worth considering. Darien, according to AreaVibes.com, is a fantastic city. Connecticut’s real estate taxes are among the highest in the country, making it less tax-friendly for retirees. Furthermore, with a cost of living that is 24% higher than the national average, it is still quite costly. However, if you’re looking for a retirement job, it’s not so bad. Keep in mind that all retirement income is taxed, and residents may also be subject to taxes on Social Security benefits.

Connecticut

New York

For retirees, New York might be a good option. You’ll get the most bang for your buck in the Great Neck neighborhood. New York City is walkable and has almost every need and service you could want! The Empire State, with a population of 19.54 million people, provides exciting opportunities for people of all ages. Small apartments are the norm, but they’re ideal for those looking for something manageable. The cost of living is 22% higher than the national average, but it’s not too bad. However, because it is not tax-friendly and senior citizens face high poverty rates, it is best suited for the wealthy.

New York

Rhode Island

How about this small East coast state? According to Niche.com, Jamestown is a fantastic option. With a population of only 1.057 million people, it is a small city. For history buffs, it offers a wealth of culture as one of the original colonies. Nature lovers will appreciate the ocean views. Regrettably, it is not the most tax-efficient option available. The cost of living is 22 percent higher than the national average, which could put a dent in your wallet. If you already have a lot of savings, however, this is a great option.

Rhode Island

Washington

Although the prices in the Pacific Northwest are not particularly low, Washington may not be the most cost-effective place to relocate. With a population of 7.1 million people, it is one of the most populous countries in the world. Vancouver offers a great way of life without having to spend a lot of money, so keep that in mind. While the cost of living is still 21% higher than the national average, it is still significantly less expensive than Hawaii or California. The absence of a state income tax is enticing. The average household income for people over 65 is more than $55,000, so having a job will make things a lot easier.

Washington

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a good choice because it is a tax-friendly state with no income tax on retirement. The population of this small New England state is 1.3 million people. Gilford is a fantastic place to live. If you require medical care, you will be relieved to learn that the state has been ranked fifth best for senior health by the United Health Foundation. It is also worth noting that it has breathtaking scenery. While the cost of living is still 18% higher than the national average, the tax laws alleviate some of the concerns. However, some people may not enjoy the hot summers and cold winters.

New Hampshire

Oregon

Let’s take a look at Oregon to see if it’s a good fit for you as a retirement destination. With a population of 4 million people, Gold Beach appears to be the preferred retirement destination for the majority of retirees. Healthcare costs are 2.6 percent lower than the national average. It also provides a variety of outdoor activities for seniors, though rain can be an issue during the rainy season in September. While Social Security benefits are tax-free, the majority of retirement income isn’t. In fact, the state has one of the highest income taxes in the country, at 9.9%. Although the cost of living is 18% higher than the US average, senior citizens have a low income of around $45,000.

Oregon

Maryland

Perhaps Maryland is the best place for you to retire. The state has a population of 6 million people, and Chevy Chase Village is popular among retirees. Seniors have the second-highest average household income in the country, at $70,874. This may be sufficient to compensate for the cost of living, which is 17% higher than the national average. There are also plenty of things to do in and around the state, such as visiting Baltimore or Washington, D.C. Individuals make more money than most places in the United States, but keep in mind that they are heavily taxed. Individual retirement account distributions are taxed, but Social Security is not. Inheritance and estate taxes are also levied.

Maryland

Colorado

Let’s see if Colorado is the right place for you to retire. It is home to 5.4 million people and has a cost of living that is 17% higher than the national average. Colorado Springs is the most beautiful city in the area. The state came in fourth place in the United Health Foundation’s senior health rankings. Do you think residents of the Centennial State will live to be over a century old? Keep in mind that the real estate market in Denver and other cities are extremely competitive. You’ll have to adjust to the state’s high elevation as well, but the weather is generally pleasant.

Colorado

Vermont

If you want to stay healthy well into your golden years, the Green Mountain State is worth considering. With a population of only 626,000 people, it is one of the smallest countries in the world. Hartford is a nice city to live in. Even so, the cost of living is still 12% higher than the national average, which isn’t too bad. While it has unrivaled natural beauty and excellent senior healthcare, it is one of the “Least Tax-Friendly” states, according to Kiplinger.

Vermont

Delaware

Delaware is a state that is well worth investigating. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a population of 967,000 people. Rehoboth Beach, in particular, appears to be a pleasant place to call home. Delaware does not levy a tax on Social Security benefits, making it a tax-friendly state. Furthermore, for senior citizens, the state exempts certain amounts of pension income and investments. All of this may be enough to compensate for the fact that the cost of living is 11% higher than the national average. Because senior citizens have lower-than-average incomes, it would be ideal if you already have a large savings account.

Delaware

Virginia

Virginia has a population of 8.3 million people and a slightly higher cost of living than the national average, at 7% higher. Many retirees appear to enjoy their time in Roanoke. In any case, because the incomes are relatively high in this area, the cost of living may be minimal. Furthermore, healthcare is relatively inexpensive, and Social Security is not taxed. Senior citizens can also take a $12,000 deduction from their earnings! It is not, however, a good idea if you enjoy living in a big city.

Virginia

Utah

Do you intend to retire in Utah? Let’s see if relocating to the 2.9 million-person state is a wise decision. It has the second-best senior health care in the United States, according to the United Health Foundation. It’s also a good idea to take advantage of the area’s recreational opportunities. There are 5 national parks, 43 state parks, and 5 national forests in the United States. For the best quality of life, we recommend Salt Lake City. Unfortunately, it is not particularly tax-friendly for retirees. Although Social Security is taxed, the cost of living is only 4% higher than the national average.

Utah

Nevada

When it comes to taxes, Nevada has a lot to offer. For starters, the absence of a state income tax will undoubtedly benefit senior citizens. Poverty rates among the elderly are relatively low. Of course, no discussion of this state would be complete without mentioning that it is the home of Las Vegas! The cost of living is only 4% higher than the average in the United States. For retirees, Winchester is ideal. However, some people may be put off by the semi-arid desert climate’s extreme temperatures.

Nevada

Minnesota

What about Minnesota, though? Let’s see what happens. If you’re most concerned about your health, you should know that it was named the “healthiest in the country for seniors” by the United Health Foundation. Osseo is a wonderful town, but Rochester is home to the Mayo Clinic. If you have serious health problems, it is definitely worth considering. The state’s population is 5.5 million, and the cost of living is 4% higher than the national average. Regrettably, the annual income is below average, and Social Security is taxed at the same rate as the federal government. Retirement income is also subject to taxation.

Minnesota

South Dakota

The cost of living in South Dakota is also 4% higher than the national average. With a population of only 882,000 people, it is a relatively small city. Hot Springs is a popular destination for retirees. It’s also the “Most Tax-Friendly” state, in case you didn’t know. Cool. Aside from the fact that it is inexpensive, nature lovers will never be bored. Blizzards and the cold, on the other hand, make the weather less than ideal. Regrettably, there are no major cities in the vicinity.

South Dakota