Wisconsin is a state full of attractions, such its cheese, beer, and stunning natural surroundings. Not every town in the region is a desirable place to live, though. Some of them are unpopular with locals due to their high rates of crime, low salaries, subpar schools, or other issues. Based on recent census statistics and additional sources, these seven Wisconsin municipalities are seeing a rapid population exodus.
1. Milwaukee
The biggest and most violent city in Wisconsin is Milwaukee. With 1,597 violent crimes committed against every 100,000 citizens, it has a rate more than four times higher than the national average. Furthermore, the poverty rate is nearly double the state average at 26.8%. For many years, Milwaukee has struggled with racial segregation, unemployment, and urban deterioration; as a result, a large number of residents are moving away from the city to safer and more affluent places.
2. The Beloit
Small and bordering Illinois, Beloit is beset with serious issues. It has the second-highest violent crime rate in the state, with 1,038 per 100,000 residents. In addition, the poverty rate is 22.3%, significantly higher than the state average. The opioid problem and the fall in manufacturing have severely damaged Beloit, and many of its citizens are leaving the city in search of better chances elsewhere.
3. The Racine
Another city on the Lake Michigan shore is Racine, although it’s not a nice location to live. It has the third-highest violent crime rate in the state, with 760 per 100,000 residents. Additionally, it has a poverty rate that is higher than the state average at 21.9%. Racial animosity, deindustrialization, and low educational attainment have all plagued Racine, and many residents are moving out from the city in search of better opportunities.
4. Superior
Though it sits atop Lake Superior, the city of Superior is anything but superior. Its violent crime rate, which is higher than the state average, is 507 per 100,000 population. In addition, its 19.9% poverty rate is higher than the state average. The declining shipping and mining industries have had an impact on Superior, and many locals find the area unattractive due to its severe winters and remote location.
5. Merrill
Although Merrill is a small community in the state’s north-central region, it is not a recommended area to raise a family. With 406 violent crimes committed against every 100,000 citizens, it has a higher rate than the state average. Additionally, its 16.4% poverty rate is marginally higher than the state average. At $41,483, Merrill’s median household income is low compared to the state average of $59,209. Residents in Merrill have limited options and attractions, and many are leaving.
6. Antigo
Another little city in the state’s north-central region is Antigo, however living there is not pleasant. With 404 violent crimes committed against every 100,000 citizens, it has a rate higher than the state average. Additionally, it has a poverty rate that is higher than the state average at 18.5%. The low median household income in Antigo is $38,750, significantly less than the average for the state. With 23.4 suicides per 100,000 people, Antigo has the highest rate in the state. Many of Antigo’s citizens are fleeing the city due to its dismal outlook and high rate of depression.
7. The Rhinelander
Despite being a small city in the state’s northeast, Rhinelander is not a prosperous area to reside. With 397 violent crimes committed against every 100,000 citizens, it has a somewhat higher rate than the state average. Additionally, it has a poverty rate that is higher than the state average at 17.8%. At $39,722, Rhinelander’s median household income is low compared to the state average. At 7.1%, Rhinelander has the highest unemployment rate in the state. Many of Rhinelander’s people are moving out from the city due to its poor quality of life and lack of employment possibilities.
In summary
Based on the most recent information available, these are the seven Wisconsin towns that residents are trying to get out of as quickly as possible. These towns are unappealing to live in because of their high rates of crime, low salaries, subpar schooling, and other issues. A large number of individuals are leaving these towns in search of opportunity and better living conditions elsewhere. Wisconsin is a lovely state, but not every town in the state is a pleasant place to call home.