If you’re looking for a fun destination for a cross-country road trip or to settle down in a new place, it’s best to look out for which cities are already known to be unfriendly and difficult to visit.
Read on to discover the least welcoming cities in America to ensure you avoid these destinations.
Detroit, Michigan
Many people know that Detroit was once a hub for the automotive industry. The city had a thriving population, and many families relied on General Motors, Stellantis, and Ford Motor Company.
However, these motor companies took their production overseas for cheaper labor, and the result was a depressed economy. The people of Detroit seemed to never recover from the financial loss. Today, the city has incredibly high crime and murder rates.
Baltimore, Maryland
Although located on the idyllic coast of New England, Baltimore is a tough city and can be unkind to visitors.
Due to depopulation and a lack of economic growth, Baltimore has high crime rates, high levels of drug use, assaults, and robberies. Many people choose to skip the city when on a road trip in New England.
Los Angeles, California
Although LA is home to the rich and famous, Beverly Hills, and Rodeo Drive, it also suffers from its share of downfalls.
The traffic jams, overpriced food and hotels, and high amount of homeless on skid row make visiting Los Angeles a difficult trip for many people looking to relax.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Many come to the desert in Nevada to enjoy the nightlife, gambling, and famous sold-out shows. However, the city also has its own dark secrets.
Las Vegas has a tough time keeping long term residents. Many get caught up working in hospitality and lack a sense of community. The schools seem to be underfunded due to the lack of homes established in the area as well.
Miami, Florida
Miami is a tropical coastal metropolis filled with Cuban music and culture, but also has big problems with pickpocketing and gambling.
Street hustlers are a huge problem for the city. They often stay near tourist attractions and prey on people who look like easy targets.
New York City, New York
Anyone who’s been to New York knows that a rough and tumble attitude is necessary to survive in such a harsh city.
Locals know how to avoid getting scammed, as they keep an unfriendly demeanor. However, pickpockets know how to spot a tourist. Visitors have been warned to keep their valuables in a safe place at all times.
Newark, New Jersey
Home to the New Jersey Devils, Newark has often been described as a bit of a hell-scape.
One of the busiest airports in the world is located here. Officials have noted that wait times can be as much as 25% longer in this underfunded airport.
Atlanta, Georgia
If you want to visit the idyllic peach crops or the Appalachian Mountains, it’s best to stay away from the bustling city of Atlanta.
The heavy traffic in the city center makes getting around a nightmare for locals and visitors alike.
Cleveland, Ohio
Located on the isles of Lake Erie, Cleveland is the eleventh-largest city in the world.
Many people come to enjoy the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. However, the sky-high rent prices and low wages create a sense of conflict in the city. Petty theft and carjackings are known to be high in this town.
St. Louis, Missouri
The heart of the Midwest, St. Louis, is known for their iconic Gateway Arch.
The city is also known for high crime rates and urban decay, as many people are leaving the city for better opportunities.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Home to Mardi Gras, ancient cemeteries, and voodoo practitioners, the city is filled with dark history and culture.
However, New Orleans seems to have never recovered from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The city is plagued by poverty, homelessness, drug addiction, and murder rates.
