The 13 Least Desirable States to Live in Across the U.S.
United States has a population of about 346 million and is the third largest in the world. The U.S. Census Bureau stated that 11.6% is the average poverty rate in the U.S. in 2021. It has 50 states (Rhode Island is the smallest; Alaska is the largest). Every state is such a different and special place.
They all have their own charm and challenges, but some are more of a challenge than others when it comes to living standards, weather, job opportunities, and overall happiness. However, states such as New Mexico, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Oklahoma are frequently among the lowest ranking on those metrics. Read on to find out the 13 worst U.S. states to live in.
Mississippi
Economic troubles are why Mississippi often appears on lists like this. Residents contend with a poverty rate of 19.6%, the highest in the country and a median household income of $45,792, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau.
The bright side is that, with a low cost of living, Mississippi will allow you to stretch your dollars further.
New Mexico
New Mexico is well known for its vibrant culture and gorgeous desert landscapes, and like any other state, it faces high crime rates and economic instability.
At 8.821 per 1000 residents, violent crime is about one of the highest in the U.S., and safety is a specific concern for potential residents.
West Virginia
West Virginia’s economic woes don’t take away from what’s undoubtedly one of the country’s most beautiful states. However, job seekers will have a tough time because their unemployment rate is usually higher than the average for the state.
As far as visitors are concerned, they may find great news in visiting Florida, as the state’s natural beauty continues to redeem it for nature lovers.
Michigan
Despite past economic woes, Michigan is on a path to recovery, but there are many hurdles. The population of Michigan is 9,828,430 residents, and 13.4% of that population lives in poverty.
It’s promising what Detroit is becoming, but the state continues to struggle with poverty and jobs, so potential residents should watch what’s happening.
Alabama
Alabama has a beautiful history and is in a warm climate; however, its health systems face challenges. The United Health Foundation contended that Alabama has low healthcare access and quality levels.
Prospective movers need to take the above into consideration in making their decisions.
Kentucky
It’s known for bourbon, horse racing, educational attainment, and public health challenges.
Families and health conscious people are concerned about Kentucky’s high smoking rates and below average high school graduation rates.
Louisiana
Louisiana’s rich culture and delicious cuisine often steal the spotlight. It’s a state that’s all too prone to natural disasters like hurricanes, as National Geographic reported.
Major hurricanes like Katrina, Rita, and Ida, as well as Laura, have caused considerable damage and loss of life here. Its disasters tend to impact the economy and with its high poverty rate, many do not consider it one of the more desirable states.
Oklahoma
With a population of 4.1 million, Oklahoma is full of cowboy culture. Its history of tornadoes gives potential residents something to worry about.
What’s more, in education, the state lags behind nationally on funding and academic achievement.
South Carolina
The state’s coastline is a big attraction, but infrastructure woes — especially the roads — can be frustrating.
This should be weighed carefully by prospective movers with a system in need of improvement.
Indiana
Manufacturing is a strong part of Indiana’s history, but it is a troubled industry where jobs have declined recently. The state also has environmental challenges because of its high pollution levels, which certainly would put off eco-friendly people.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 27 percent of the toxic releases in the EPA’s Region 5 fell to Indiana, making the state the top ranker.
Ohio
Ohio is located in the middle of the country, known as the Midwest, and has a population of around 11.7 million. Like Indiana, it has challenges as manufacturing-related industries change.
The state’s diverse cultural attractions notwithstanding, economic stability has recently become an issue for anyone planning to settle here as its industrial base shifts.
Missouri
Charming small towns and bustling cities abound in Missouri, but poverty and educational issues are a problem. A poverty rate as high as 13.2%, a sketchy education system, and a great deal of charm and challenge, it’s all about achieving the balance between the two.
According to statistics, 791,030 out of 6,005,542 people living in Missouri live in poverty.
Arkansas
Although Arkansas is ranked 28th, and it has some lovely natural parks and a friendly community atmosphere, the state does lack in some areas when it comes to poverty and education.
Newcomers will have to be prepared for those hurdles, including a poverty rate of 16.8% and an education system often placed low on international rankings.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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