These Cities Have Been Voted Worst of the USA in 2024 And Here’s Why (RANKED)

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Deciding where to live or where to visit in the USA can be a complicated venture. With dozens of big cities across one of the biggest countries in the world, it can be difficult to know what city is worth visiting or moving to.

In that context, Redditor jhffmn21 turned to a famous forum platform to ask other Americans what they thought the worst American city is.

With over 25,000 comments, the thread inspired lots of people to share their opinions and experiences about different cities in America. To save you time, we ranked the Top 5 Worst American Cities based on these users’ votes.

1. Stockton, California

One Redditor answered OP by stating his city, Stockton, California was the worst. This comment was voted first, with over 6,000 upvotes, making it the worst city in the USA according to these locals.

This Redditor explained that the prevailing sentiment among locals is a mix of frustration, despair, and a lingering sense of danger. With a population of approximately 420,000 people, it’s alarming that around 60,000 of them are homeless, highlighting a severe homelessness crisis. Adding to the city’s woes, past mayors have faced legal troubles, with some being arrested during or after their terms, eroding trust in leadership.

He continued saying the city’s reputation for crime is exemplified by incidents like bank robberies with hostages, contributing to a general sense of insecurity. The unfortunate closure of various amusements and attractions only adds to the gloomy atmosphere, leaving residents yearning for recreational options. Stockton’s nickname as the “little Chicago” underscores its crime-related woes, and the burden of mandatory health insurance premiums, often as high as $800 per month, places an additional financial strain on its struggling residents. It’s no wonder that many locals are disheartened by the challenges they face in their city.

Commenters agree

2. Bakersfield, California

Sadly, California is topping this list. Another Redditor highlighted that Bakersfield is right behind Fresno if not tied. With over 13,000 upvotes, Bakersfield is voted second-worse city in the USA.

In Bakersfield, California, the prevailing sentiment among many locals can be characterized by a mix of concern, apprehension, and a sense of rivalry with neighboring cities. The city has struggled with crime rates, particularly robberies, which contribute to a pervasive feeling of insecurity among residents. Frequent reports of criminal incidents have left many feeling on edge and concerned about their safety.

Interestingly, some residents of neighboring cities, such as Fresno, have been known to jokingly refer to Bakersfield in a less-than-flattering light. The unofficial motto of “at least we’re not Bakersfield” underscores a perception that Bakersfield faces unique challenges that residents of other nearby areas may want to distance themselves from.

Overall, the atmosphere in Bakersfield is marked by a desire for improvements in safety and a hope for a brighter future, as residents grapple with the city’s reputation and work towards addressing its issues.

Commenters agree

3. Jackson, Mississippi

With 12,000 upvotes, Jackson, Mississippi was ranked third. Several Redditors noted that the prevailing sentiment among many locals is one of deep concern, frustration, and a sense of neglect. The city’s very high murder rate has cast a long shadow over the community, fostering a climate of fear and unease. The educational system’s shortcomings compound the challenges residents face, with limited access to quality education hindering opportunities for advancement.

The city’s failing infrastructure is a constant source of frustration. Residents have to contend with crumbling roads, inadequate trash pickup services, and the shocking reality that some individuals lack basic necessities like shoes and running water. It’s disheartening to many that Mississippi’s capital city struggles to provide amenities that smaller cities across the country often take for granted.

The lack of access to drinking water, dependable trash removal, and drivable roads contributes to a feeling of abandonment among Jackson’s residents. Many express the sentiment that their city is in dire need of significant improvements and investment to address these fundamental issues, leaving them yearning for a brighter future and a better quality of life.

Commenters agreed and noted the city seemed to have frozen in time

4. Miami, Florida

With over 8,000 upvotes, Miami is voted one of the worst cities by Americans. Several Redditors shared that the city’s tropical climate, characterized by hot and humid weather, can be both a blessing and a curse. While some appreciate the year-round warmth, others find it sweltering and uncomfortable, particularly during the humid summer months.

Miami’s reputation as a crime-ridden city has left many residents feeling on edge, as they navigate concerns about safety in their daily lives. Additionally, the city’s bug-infested environment, often plagued by cockroaches and other pests, can be a source of annoyance for its inhabitants.

The presence of trash-strewn streets and the constant traffic congestion contribute to a less than ideal quality of life for many Miami residents. The city’s expenses, coupled with the looming threat of hurricanes, can be financially burdensome, leaving some feeling trapped in a beautiful but challenging place to live.

Commenters mostly agreed

Most Redditors agreed with this assessment though some noted that Miami still offers some positive aspects including the beach lifestyle, the prominence of art as is the case in the Wynwood neighborhood.

5. Fresno, California

With over 7,000 upvotes, Fresno was voted third-worse city in the USA. Several Redditors shared their feelings about the city.

According to commentors, the prevailing sentiment among many locals can be described as a mix of frustration, disappointment, and a sense of vulnerability. The city has gained notoriety for its high rates of car theft and car break-ins, leaving residents constantly on edge, fearing for the safety of their vehicles. The unfortunate experience of having a van broken into is a common occurrence, further deepening the feelings of insecurity among the community.

Adding to the city’s woes, the Fresno River has become a symbol of neglect and decay, with its waters tainted by garbage and pollution, serving as a disheartening reminder of environmental issues. Locals have even nicknamed it “the devil’s vacation home,” underscoring the bleak outlook some have for their city.

Some commenters disagreed

It’s worth noting that not all redditors share the same negative sentiment. Some argue that Fresno has made improvements over the past two decades and cite the presence of a nice zoo as a positive aspect of the city. Despite its challenges, Fresno’s future may hold promise for those who believe in its potential for positive change.

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So what do you think? Do you agree with this Redditors’ ranking of the worst cities of the USA?