Ohio is a state with many attractions, such as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the Ohio State University. However, not all of its cities are as appealing as its landmarks. According to a report by RoadSnacks, a website that ranks places based on various criteria, three Ohio hometowns are among the worst ‘small cities in America’.
Drexel
Drexel is a suburb of Dayton, with a population of about 2,000 people. It ranks as the worst small city in Ohio, and the second worst in the nation, according to RoadSnacks. The report cites its high crime rate, low income, and poor education as the main reasons for its dismal ranking. Drexel has a violent crime rate of 1,429 per 100,000 people, which is more than four times the national average. Its median household income is only $26,250, and its high school graduation rate is 77%, both well below the state and national averages.
Morgandale
Morgandale is another suburb of Dayton, with a population of about 1,500 people. It ranks as the second worst small city in Ohio, and the fourth worst in the nation, according to RoadSnacks. The report points out its high unemployment, low home values, and poor quality of life as the main factors for its low ranking. Morgandale has an unemployment rate of 15.6%, which is more than three times the national average. Its median home value is only $47,900, and its poverty rate is 40.5%, both among the lowest in the state and the nation.
Newcomer
Newcomer is a town in Tuscarawas County, with a population of about 1,400 people. It ranks as the third worst small city in Ohio, and the seventh worst in the nation, according to RoadSnacks. The report highlights its low population density, high drug use, and lack of amenities as the main reasons for its poor ranking. Newcomer has a population density of only 1,000 people per square mile, which is less than half the state average. It also has a high rate of methamphetamine use, and a low number of restaurants, bars, and libraries per capita.
Conclusion
While Ohio has many great places to live, work, and visit, it also has some of the worst ‘small cities in America’, according to a report by RoadSnacks. Drexel, Morgandale, and Newcomer are three Ohio hometowns that rank among the bottom 10 in the nation, based on various criteria such as crime, income, education, unemployment, home values, quality of life, population density, drug use, and amenities. These towns may not be the best choices for anyone looking for a safe, prosperous, and enjoyable place to call home.