News
September 24, 2025
Worst-run cities in America
Stacker used WalletHub data to list the worst-run cities across the United States based on various factors, such as education, economy, and health.
America's best and worst cities aren't just about tourist attractions and fancy restaurants. How well a city is managed directly impacts the lives of its residents, affecting everything from school quality to job opportunities and even overall health. Stacker, using data compiled by WalletHub, recently released a list highlighting the cities struggling the most with effective governance across the United States.
The report analyzed a wide range of factors to determine the rankings. It wasn't simply about which cities had the highest crime rates or the lowest average incomes. Instead, the focus was on how efficiently city governments are using their resources to provide essential services and improve the quality of life for their citizens.
WalletHub’s data considered areas like financial stability, measuring metrics such as credit ratings and long-term debt outstanding. A city burdened with heavy debt and poor financial planning is less likely to invest in crucial infrastructure and community programs.
Education played a significant role in the rankings. Cities with poorly performing public schools and low graduation rates often struggle to attract businesses and create a skilled workforce. The economic health of a city was also a key indicator, taking into account unemployment rates, job growth, and the overall business environment. A thriving economy provides opportunities for residents and generates revenue for the city to invest in public services.
Healthcare was another crucial component. Access to quality healthcare, including preventative care and mental health services, is essential for a healthy and productive population. Cities with limited access to healthcare often face higher rates of chronic disease and lower life expectancies.
While the specific cities topping the "worst-run" list weren't detailed in the provided description, the overall implication is clear: these are urban centers facing significant challenges in providing basic services and creating opportunities for their residents. The Stacker report serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for improved governance, better resource allocation, and a renewed focus on the well-being of citizens in these struggling cities. It also offers a valuable tool for residents, policymakers, and community leaders to understand the issues and work towards positive change. By identifying the areas where cities are falling short, the report can help pave the way for more effective and equitable urban development.
The report analyzed a wide range of factors to determine the rankings. It wasn't simply about which cities had the highest crime rates or the lowest average incomes. Instead, the focus was on how efficiently city governments are using their resources to provide essential services and improve the quality of life for their citizens.
WalletHub’s data considered areas like financial stability, measuring metrics such as credit ratings and long-term debt outstanding. A city burdened with heavy debt and poor financial planning is less likely to invest in crucial infrastructure and community programs.
Education played a significant role in the rankings. Cities with poorly performing public schools and low graduation rates often struggle to attract businesses and create a skilled workforce. The economic health of a city was also a key indicator, taking into account unemployment rates, job growth, and the overall business environment. A thriving economy provides opportunities for residents and generates revenue for the city to invest in public services.
Healthcare was another crucial component. Access to quality healthcare, including preventative care and mental health services, is essential for a healthy and productive population. Cities with limited access to healthcare often face higher rates of chronic disease and lower life expectancies.
While the specific cities topping the "worst-run" list weren't detailed in the provided description, the overall implication is clear: these are urban centers facing significant challenges in providing basic services and creating opportunities for their residents. The Stacker report serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for improved governance, better resource allocation, and a renewed focus on the well-being of citizens in these struggling cities. It also offers a valuable tool for residents, policymakers, and community leaders to understand the issues and work towards positive change. By identifying the areas where cities are falling short, the report can help pave the way for more effective and equitable urban development.
Category:
Politics