10 Places in Tennessee You Should Avoid Moving To

Tennessee, the Volunteer State, boasts numerous attractions such as sunshine, wide open spaces, and charming locales perfect for living, visiting, and raising families. However, amidst its beauty, there exist pockets that fall short of desirability. In this article, we delve into the ten places in Tennessee you should steer clear of relocating to, based on various socioeconomic factors.

1. Crossville

With an unemployment rate soaring at 12.8% and a poverty rate of 22.5%, Crossville struggles to provide economic stability to its 11,000 residents. The median income of $667 paints a grim picture of financial prospects, coupled with a concerning crime rate of 4,669.8 per 100,000 people, significantly above the national average.

2. Dyersburg

This small city, despite offering affordable housing, fails to offer much beyond that. With an 8% unemployment rate and a staggering property crime rate of 7,180 per 100,000, Dyersburg presents challenges in terms of safety and economic opportunity.

3. Newport

Located in eastern Tennessee, Newport's property crime rate of 7,180 per 100,000 residents raises eyebrows. Its isolation exacerbates the crime issue, with rates three times higher than the national average, making it an undesirable location for settling down.

4. McMinnville

Despite being the "nursery capital of the world," McMinnville grapples with poverty and limited job opportunities. With a third of its 14,000 residents living below the poverty line, coupled with education and crime concerns, McMinnville falls short as an ideal residential destination.

5. Rockwood

This city, nestled between Crossville and Knoxville, faces significant poverty challenges, with 25% of its 5,400 residents living below the poverty line. High crime rates further tarnish its appeal, making it a less-than-ideal place for relocation.

6. Lafollette

With a dwindling population and alarming unemployment and poverty rates of 23.8% and 27.8% respectively, Lafollette struggles to offer its 6,700 residents a stable livelihood. Its crime rate of 3,496.8 per 100,000 people adds to its woes, making it an unattractive prospect for potential residents.

7. Morristown

Despite being a manufacturing hub, Morristown grapples with high poverty rates and limited economic growth. Its crime rate, more than double the national average, coupled with subpar education standards, detracts from its appeal as a residential destination.

8. Ripley

As the self-proclaimed "unemployment capital" of Tennessee, Ripley's struggles with joblessness contribute to its high crime rates. With only one in every 8.4 residents employed, the city faces significant socioeconomic challenges that deter potential residents.

9. Covington

Covington's underperforming schools and pervasive poverty deter families from considering it as a viable residential option. High crime rates further compound its issues, making it an unappealing choice for relocation.

10. Memphis

Topping the list is Memphis, renowned for its high crime rates and safety concerns. With violent crime rates surpassing the national average by over 400%, coupled with alarming murder and property crime rates, Memphis poses significant risks to its residents.

In conclusion, while Tennessee boasts many attractive locales, these ten cities present challenges ranging from economic instability to safety concerns. Prospective residents should carefully consider these factors before making any relocation decisions.