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10 of the Worst U.S. States to Live in According to Americans

Unfortunately, not every state is a desirable place to live. In fact, some states can be downright unpleasant due to various factors, such as high taxes, poor infrastructure, and low quality of life. Americans have identified some of the worst states to settle down in the United States based on their own experiences and opinions on an internet site.

1. Missouri: Unimpressed and Unimpressed

Missouri Welcomes You - a roadside sign at a state border with Illinois
Editorial credit: marekuliasz / Shutterstock.com

One resident stated that Missouri is a s*** hole. Despite being the birthplace of Harry S. Truman and Walt Disney, the state has apparently failed to impress this individual. Whether they are referring to the crime rates, education system, or simply the overall atmosphere, Missouri appears to have left an unpleasant aftertaste.

2. Ohio: A Trash Can State?

River through the City - a look at Dayton, Ohio from above the confluence of the Great Maimi and Mad Rivers
Photo credit: Beeline Aerial / Shutterstock.com

Ohio is nothing but a trash can, says an American. They further explained that the state is filled with outdated, rundown cities with nothing to offer. They described the people as unfriendly and not welcoming to outsiders. They also said that the weather is always unpredictable, with harsh winters and hot summers. They also criticized the state’s lack of natural beauty and entertainment options. Overall, the individual had a very negative impression of Ohio and did not recommend it as a place to live.

3. Mississippi: The Worst State to Live In

Jackson, Mississippi, USA skyline over the Capitol Building.
Photo credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

According to a voyager, Mississippi is the worst state to live in the USA. They describe the state as lacking opportunities and low-quality education systems. The user also claims that Mississippi has a significant poverty rate and a lack of diversity, making it an unwelcoming place for many people. They also mention that the state has a high crime rate, and it’s unsafe to live there.

4. Arkansas: More Downsides than Scenic Beauty

Hot Springs, Arkansas, USA town skyline from above at dawn.
Editorial credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

A person straight-up said Arkansas is the worst state to live in. Though Arkansas is often praised for its beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities, some residents say that it has too many downsides to be considered a great place to live. According to the user, Arkansas has few job opportunities, limited cultural experiences, and high poverty levels. The state’s education system also needs to catch up to the national average, and there are few good schools or universities to choose from. Overall, the user feels that Arkansas is just not a great place to call home.

5. Oklahoma: The Least Desirable State

Skyline of Oklahoma City, OK with OKC sign and ferris wheel
Editorial credit: Paul Brady Photography / Shutterstock.com

One intrepid traveler, boasting of conquering all 50 states, couldn’t conceal their disdain for Oklahoma. Amidst their endless adventures and awe-inspiring discoveries, Oklahoma failed to capture their heart. Despite unearthing hidden gems and silver linings in every nook and cranny of America, this restless explorer found Oklahoma to offer the least enchantment and allure.

6. Texas: Heat, Tornadoes, and More

ATX City Skyline Texas Flag patriotic National Pride Displays the Lone Star State with a Colorful Austin Texas Skyline Cityscape Capital Cities Background on a Nice Sunny Summer Blue Sky Day
Editorial credit: Roschetzky Photography / Shutterstock.com

Texas is not a desirable state to live in due to several factors, according to a person’s experience. The user mentions the unbearable heat during summers, frequent tornadoes, low minimum wages, high homicide rates, and low education levels as the reasons for disliking the state.

7. West Virginia: The Abode of Woes

Historic buildings and shops on High Street in Harper's Ferry, West Virginia.
Photo credit: Jon Bilous / Shutterstock.com

In the vast tapestry of statehood, West Virginia was under the harsh spotlight as a disgruntled soul boldly declared it the ultimate abode of woes. Despite its natural beauty, the state reportedly suffers from poor infrastructure, poverty, and inadequate healthcare. These factors may contribute to making it an unfavorable state to reside in.

8. Illinois: The State of “Unreasonably High” Taxes

Chicago, Illinois, USA downtown skyline from Lincoln Park at twilight.
Photo credit: Sean Pavone // Shutterstock.com

One user did not hold back their opinion on Illinois, calling it a state with “unreasonably high” taxes. In addition to high taxes, Illinois has struggled with a significant budget deficit and pension crisis, leading to financial woes for both the state and its residents.

9. California: From Golden State to Hell Hole

Classic panoramic view of San Francisco skyline with famous Oakland Bay Bridge illuminated in beautiful golden evening light at sunset in summer, San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA
Editorial credit: canadastock / Shutterstock.com

Like a phoenix ascending from the ashes of controversy, a bold user stepped forth and labeled the golden state as nothing short of a hell hole. The state is known for its high cost of living and taxes, traffic, and homelessness problems, contributing to its negative reputation. The state also experiences frequent natural disasters, including wildfires and earthquakes, which can be catastrophic. Despite this, California remains a popular tourist destination, including some of the world’s most well-known monuments and attractions.

10. New Jersey: Roots Unwelcomed by the Locals

Aerial of Camden New Jersey Sunset
Editorial credit: FotosForTheFuture / Shutterstock.com

With a snap of their virtual fingers, an American set the internet ablaze with a bold proclamation: New Jersey is the absolute worst place to plant one’s roots, all because of the people. They had a negative encounter with the natives. It’s worth noting that New Jersey is a densely populated state with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas. While it has a reputation for being crowded and expensive, it also has many positive attributes, such as beautiful beaches and a vibrant arts scene.

Source: Reddit

Green Bay, Wisconsin Named the Best Place to Live in the United States 2023–2024

Lambeau Field Green Bay Wisconsin from above
Photo credit: Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock.com

U.S. News and World Report released their list of the best places to live in the U.S. today. They analyze 150 metro areas in the United States each year to find the best places to live. The report is based on the quality of life and the job market in each metro area, as well as the value of living there and people’s desire to live there.

Read more: Green Bay, Wisconsin Named the Best Place to Live in the United States 2023–2024

Why I Use a VPN When Traveling and at Home (and You Should Too!)

Cheerful beautiful woman wears linen dress uses modern digital tablet for reading book or browsing web pages sits outdoors on wooden bench has happy expression. Modern technologies and lifestyle
Photo credit: WAYHOME studio // Shutterstock.com

If you’re wondering what in the world a VPN is, why you should use one when traveling (or at your local cafe, or even at home), or how a VPN can help you get cheaper flights and access to more Netflix shows – you’ll want to give this post a read

Read more: Why I Use a VPN When Traveling and at Home (and You Should Too!)

10 Forgotten Tourist Spots in the United States Worth Exploring

Forrest Gump Point, red rock at Monument Valley, Navajo Tribal Park, Arizona USA. Stunning view and scenic road in Utah during sunrise. Depth of long empty road.
Photo credit: Wisanu Boonrawd // Shutterstock.com

Tired of the usual tourist spots in the US? Want to uncover some amazing hidden gems? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve got the inside scoop on secret destinations straight from fellow Americans. 

Read more: 10 Forgotten Tourist Spots in the United States Worth Exploring

20+ Amazing Things to Do in Florida Other Than Disney

Miami, Florida, USA tropical downtown skyline.
Photo credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

Most tourists see the Sunshine State as the Disney capital of the world but those who know how to navigate this charming state can attest that it’s more than just its man-made attractions.

Read more: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Florida Other Than Disney

10 States With the Friendliest People You’ll Ever Meet

Green Bay, Wisconsin. August 9th, 2018. Packer fans during at tailgate party at Lambeau Field. The man wears a cheesehead that says NFL Owner. The Packers are the only publicly owned NFL team.
Editorial credit: Jeff Bukowski / Shutterstock.com

Do some states in the US have nicer people than others? That’s a burning question people ask when they go on a road trip or relocate to a new state. To crack this nut, a bunch of folks went online to spill the beans on their encounters with friendly peeps across the country.

Read more: 10 U.S. States With the Friendliest People You’ll Ever Meet

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