12 U.S. Cities Turning Into Ghost Towns with the Most Abandoned Buildings
What happens when the hustle and bustle of a city fades into silence? Across the United States, urban decay has transformed once-thriving cities into ghostly remnants of their former selves. A growing number of cities are grappling with the slow erosion of vitality, from vacant buildings to population decline.
The United States Census Bureau published a study in 2023 that revealed vacancies exist in 15.1 million housing units nationwide. Abandoned spaces serve as visual reminders of changing economic conditions and the transformation of population dynamics throughout urban America. Here’s a closer look at 12 U.S. cities showing ghost-town tendencies—and the stories behind their transformation.
Augusta, GA
Augusta has a rental vacancy rate of 8.9%, giving it the highest rate among the cities on this list. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, many homes have been vacant for over two years. The combination of economic stagnation and inadequate infrastructure spending produces job scarcity that triggers people to leave Augusta.
For urban explorers, Augusta’s empty homes offer a unique snapshot of changing urban dynamics. However, it’s also a call to preserve and revitalize neighborhoods slipping into decline.
Detroit, MI
Detroit is an urban decline emblem, and existing data confirms this problematic reality. According to U.S. Census data, thirty percent of vacant properties in the city have been empty for over two years. Detroit’s population remains on a progressive decline from its former motor industry peak levels.
And yet, with resurgence efforts like urban farming and creative community initiatives, Detroit also represents hope—reminding us that decay doesn’t always mean defeat.
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge shows a homeowner vacancy rate of 1.5% and a consistent population decline. U.S. Census Bureau figures suggest the city is battling outmigration, which plays a key role in its emergence as a potential ghost town.
The city’s plight is a sobering reminder that even vibrant cultural centers can face significant challenges when economic opportunities dwindle.
New Orleans, LA
As of 2023, the population was approximately 364,136, reflecting a 6.65% decrease from the 2020 census figure of 383,997, according to World Population Review. Known for its rich music and culinary traditions, the city now has many vacant homes, many of which were left uninhabitable after hurricanes and flooding.
While its cultural legacy remains intact, New Orleans faces a clear challenge to reinvest in both communities and infrastructure to avoid being at greater risk.
Houston, TX
Despite its size, Houston faces increasing vacancy rates. The economic ripples from fluctuating oil prices, rising real estate costs, and the pandemic have contributed to more significant numbers of abandoned commercial and residential spaces.
For the adventurous, Houston offers a sprawling urban jungle filled with surprises—but also a cautionary tale about the challenges of managing rapid growth.
Scranton, PA
Once thriving during America’s industrial boom, Scranton struggles with urban decay. Many homes have been vacant for over two years, with local authorities seeking solutions to repopulate empty neighborhoods.
Exploring Scranton provides a glimpse into the post-industrial challenges many northeast U.S. cities face today.
San Francisco, CA
Known for its high cost of living, San Francisco has witnessed a population decline of 7.4% between 2020 and 2023, as the World Population Review reported. High rents combined with pandemic-induced migration out of the city have left once-bustling areas quieter than ever.
Abandoned offices and commercial properties are reminders of the city’s shifting economic and cultural fabric.
Pittsburgh, PA
Known as an industrial heavyweight, Pittsburgh now has increasing vacancies and demographic changes. Its steady population decline has left many properties untouched and empty.
With a mix of historic buildings and modern structures, Pittsburgh allows urban explorers and history buffs to witness both decline and small pockets of revitalization.
Buffalo, NY
Buffalo has long battled population decline and economic challenges. High rates of long-term vacant homes underscore its struggle to maintain a sustainable community.
Yet Buffalo also tells a story of resilience, with efforts underway to breathe new life into this once-flourishing city.
Winston-Salem, NC
Once a thriving industrial hub, Winston-Salem has faced a slow but steady population decline and rising vacancy rates. There were instances of residents moving out of the area, with a reported net negative migration of 157 residents leaving the state.
This dual dynamic of shrinking demographics and vacant homes has earned its spot on the list of at-risk ghost towns, reflecting the challenges faced by mid-sized cities seeking to reinvent themselves in the post-industrial age.
St. Louis, MO
St. Louis is no stranger to the pains of urban decline. Between 2020 and 2023, the city experienced a population drop of 6.6%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Meanwhile, a retail vacancy rate of 6% means that even commercial spaces suffer from abandonment.
Exploring St. Louis reveals a once-bustling city adapting to new economic realities while struggling to preserve its rich cultural heritage rooted in its historic architecture.
Jackson, MS
Jackson faces significant population loss as young residents seek opportunities elsewhere. A report on the impact of ‘Brain Drain’ on Mississippi noted that outmigration among younger residents has left neighborhoods dotted with vacant homes.
Urban explorers in Jackson often find a mix of decaying residential spaces and remnants of a city yearning for revitalization.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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