This article was originally published on Crafting Your Home. A human contributor also wrote and edited the post.
America’s biggest cities are often celebrated for their culture, history, food, and economic power. But some of the nation’s most recognizable urban centers also carry reputations that divide public opinion.
A 2025 YouGov survey of 2,175 U.S. adults asked Americans whether they viewed dozens of major cities favorably or unfavorably. The results revealed a fascinating pattern: some cities with global influence also ranked among the least liked.
The reasons behind these opinions vary. Crime concerns, housing costs, traffic, homelessness, political tensions, and economic struggles all play a role in shaping how Americans view different places.
However, reputation does not always tell the whole story. Many of these cities are also experiencing major investments, falling crime rates, cultural growth, and renewed efforts to rebuild their communities.
Here are the 9 American cities that received some of the highest unfavorable ratings in the survey.
New York City, New York
New York City has always inspired strong opinions.
Supporters describe it as the center of culture, finance, fashion, entertainment, and global influence. Critics point to crowded streets, high prices, long commutes, and the stress of daily life.
Housing affordability remains one of the city’s biggest challenges. Millions of residents compete for limited space in one of the world’s most desirable urban markets.
Yet New York continues to attract people from around the globe.
It is a city that can frustrate residents while still remaining one of the most influential places on Earth.
Washington, D.C
America’s capital city carries a unique burden: people often judge it based on the federal government.
Washington, D.C., is associated with elections, political battles, lobbying, and government debates. For many Americans, frustration with politics becomes frustration with the city itself.
Beyond the political world, Washington offers historic neighborhoods, museums, restaurants, universities, and vibrant communities.
Its challenge is separating the city’s identity from the political battles that happen inside it every day.
Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore has a complicated story. The city is rich in history, famous for its waterfront, and home to respected universities, hospitals, and cultural institutions.
But years of economic struggles and crime concerns have shaped a difficult national reputation.
Violence, poverty, and abandoned properties have been major challenges. However, recent years have brought improvements in several crime categories and increased investment in neighborhoods across the city.
Baltimore remains a place where problems and progress exist side by side.
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles represents opportunity, entertainment, and ambition. It is the heart of Hollywood and a global center for creativity.
But life in Los Angeles can be difficult.
Traffic congestion, expensive housing, homelessness, and long commutes have caused many people to question whether the famous California dream is still affordable.