The 5 Worst Cities in America to Live in or Visit

When choosing a place to call home or planning your next vacation, some cities in America are best avoided. According to the FBI’s 2024 crime statistics, a violent crime happens every 25.9 seconds, and certain cities are notorious for their high crime rates, poor living conditions, and economic struggles. 

With poverty rates soaring above the national average and crime numbers climbing, these cities have earned their reputation as some of the worst places to live or visit. Every city has its charm, but these particular ones consistently rank low in safety, livability, and overall quality of life. Let’s take a look at the five worst cities in America, where the risks far outweigh the rewards.

Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska, often ranks among the worst U.S. cities to live in or visit due to persistent crime and economic challenges. In 2023, the city’s crime index was 471—about twice the national average—ranking it above 96% of U.S. cities. Despite a slight decline in homicides, residents report significant safety concerns, especially at night, with violent and property crimes remaining elevated. 

Poverty and cost‑of‑living pressures compound the problem, as high housing costs and limited job opportunities strain households. Combined with pollution and quality‑of‑life issues, Anchorage struggles to attract visitors or retain residents, reinforcing its reputation as one of the least desirable American cities.

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit’s median household income was approximately $38,100 in 2023. The violent crime rate stood at roughly 20.07 incidents per 1,000 residents in 2024—about five times the national median.

A recent study found that Detroit’s block groups of extreme deprivation exceed 95 % of U.S. cities. Between economic decline, high crime, and concentrated poverty, Detroit remains one of the most challenging places to live or travel safely in the U.S.

Flint, Michigan

Flint’s population has nearly halved from the 1960s to 2010, driven by industrial decline and employment loss. It also faced a major public‑health crisis due to lead‑contaminated water, further eroding trust and infrastructure.

With repeated rankings among the “most dangerous” U.S. cities for its size, the combination of health hazards, economic hardship, and crime makes Flint a city to approach with caution.

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis has one of the highest violent‑crime rates among major U.S. cities; one report cites approximately 2,501 incidents per 100,000 residents as of September 2025.

Another source indicates it leads in homicides nationally, with 63.9 per 100,000 in 2023. City leaders report recent declines, but the legacy of violent crime and the high poverty level (roughly 24 %) make Memphis a challenging environment for visitors and residents alike.

Shreveport, Louisiana

Shreveport continues to struggle with high crime and poverty rates despite some improvements since 2015. In 2024, the city recorded a violent crime rate of 811 per 100,000 people, which represents 1,466 total violent offenses (murder, assault, robbery, and rape). Property crimes also remain elevated, including burglaries and vehicle thefts. 

On the economic side, Shreveport’s poverty rate stood at 32.4% in 2023, nearly double the U.S. average of 16.8%, while median household income was $28,635. With persistently high poverty, declining population, and crime levels far above national norms, Shreveport faces ongoing challenges that limit its appeal as a place to live or visit.