Washington, D.C. named least desirable U.S. city for second year

A recent study reveals that Washington, D.C. is considered the least desirable city to live in the U.S. for the second consecutive year. In a survey, 33% of respondents ranked it among the top five worst cities in America.

The survey, conducted by Clever, involved 1,000 participants in June and also examined migration data from the latest U.S. Census to understand why the capital city is viewed unfavourably.

This year, 33% of Americans listed Washington, D.C. as one of the top five worst cities to live in, up from 20% in 2023.

Clever highlighted that aside from politics, D.C. is one of the most expensive cities in the nation, with 65% of Americans citing high living costs as a major deterrent.

Housing expenses significantly contribute to these high costs. As of July 31, 2024, Zillow reports the median list price for a home in the area is $638,000.

Crime also tarnishes the city’s reputation. In 2023, D.C. saw 274 murders, the highest number in over two decades.

While D.C. faces challenges in attracting residents, New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco also rank among the top 10 undesirable U.S. cities.

In Los Angeles, housing costs are so high that the annual income required to buy a home exceeds residents’ actual income by approximately $162,000, according to Clever.

Cities like Baltimore and Detroit, though more affordable, struggle with public safety, placing them on the list of least desirable cities.

Detroit leads the nation in rapes, murders, and aggravated assaults, while Baltimore tops the list for murders and robberies per 100,000 residents.

On a brighter note, Tampa, Florida, is ranked the most desirable city to live in America, praised for its year-round warmth, low crime rates, and affordable housing.

Charlotte, North Carolina, secured the second spot, with Virginia Beach, Virginia, completing the top three.