20 Worst Places to Live in Massachusetts: Ranking the Bay State’s Least Desirable Cities
Massachusetts offers many desirable places to live, but some areas face significant challenges.
From economic struggles to high crime rates and limited opportunities, certain cities and towns in the Bay State have earned reputations as less-than-ideal places to call home.
This article examines 20 locations in Massachusetts that rank among the worst places to live based on factors like poverty levels, unemployment, housing costs, education quality, and public safety.
While individual experiences may vary, these areas tend to lag behind state averages on key quality of life metrics.
Understanding which places face the most difficulties can help residents and policymakers focus on improvement efforts.
1. Springfield
Springfield, Massachusetts, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, ranking among the most dangerous in the state.
Unemployment remains a persistent issue in Springfield, with rates consistently above the national average. This economic hardship contributes to poverty and related social problems.
The education system in Springfield has also faced criticism. Many public schools underperform compared to state standards, limiting opportunities for students.
Springfield’s infrastructure shows signs of aging and neglect in some areas. Residents often complain about road conditions and the need for urban renewal projects.
The city’s high property tax rates can be a burden for homeowners. This financial strain may deter potential residents and businesses from settling in Springfield.
2. Lawrence
Lawrence faces significant challenges as a city in Massachusetts. The crime rate exceeds the national average, with property crimes being particularly prevalent. Residents experience higher risks of theft and burglary compared to other areas in the state.
The city struggles with economic issues, including a high unemployment rate and lower median household income than the state average. Many families in Lawrence live below the poverty line, limiting access to resources and opportunities.
Education is another area of concern. Lawrence public schools have lower test scores and graduation rates compared to state averages. This can impact students’ future prospects and the overall quality of life in the community.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and buildings in need of repair or renovation. This contributes to a less appealing urban environment and can affect property values.
3. Holyoke
Holyoke, Massachusetts, faces significant challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly property crimes and violent offenses.
Economic difficulties are prevalent in Holyoke. The unemployment rate exceeds the state average, and many residents face financial hardship.
Education is another area of concern. Holyoke’s public schools have lower test scores and graduation rates compared to other Massachusetts districts.
The city grapples with aging infrastructure, including roads and buildings in need of repair. This contributes to a less attractive urban environment.
Holyoke’s poverty rate is notably high, with a substantial portion of residents living below the poverty line. This impacts various aspects of community life and individual well-being.
4. Brockton
Brockton, located in Plymouth County, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with high crime rates, ranking among the most dangerous places in Massachusetts.
Unemployment is a persistent issue in Brockton, with rates consistently above the state average. This economic instability affects many households and contributes to financial stress for residents.
The city’s public education system has faced criticism for underperformance. Some schools in Brockton have lower test scores and graduation rates compared to state averages.
Property values in Brockton tend to be lower than in surrounding areas. This can make it difficult for homeowners to build equity or sell their properties at competitive prices.
Traffic congestion is a common complaint among Brockton residents, particularly during rush hours. The city’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with population growth and commuter needs.
5. New Bedford
New Bedford, located in southeastern Massachusetts, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly property crimes, which can create safety concerns for inhabitants.
Unemployment remains a persistent issue in New Bedford. The city’s economy, historically reliant on fishing and manufacturing, has experienced difficulties adapting to changing industries.
Educational outcomes in New Bedford’s public schools lag behind state averages. This can limit opportunities for young residents and affect the city’s long-term economic prospects.
New Bedford grapples with environmental concerns, including contaminated sites from its industrial past. These issues can affect public health and hinder redevelopment efforts.
The city’s aging infrastructure, including roads and buildings, requires substantial investment. This can strain municipal resources and impact the delivery of essential services to residents.
6. Chelsea
Chelsea, located just across the Mystic River from Boston, faces significant challenges. The city grapples with high crime rates, particularly property crimes and assaults.
Chelsea’s poverty rate exceeds the state average, with many residents struggling to make ends meet. The median household income falls below Massachusetts standards.
The city’s public schools underperform compared to state averages, impacting educational opportunities for local children. Limited funding and resources contribute to this issue.
Chelsea’s industrial past has left a legacy of environmental concerns. Some areas still deal with soil and water contamination from former factories and refineries.
The city’s dense urban layout leads to traffic congestion and parking difficulties. This can make daily commutes and errands frustrating for residents.
7. Fall River
Fall River faces significant economic and social challenges. The city struggles with high unemployment rates and poverty levels above the state average.
Crime remains a concern for residents. Violent and property crime rates exceed those of many other Massachusetts communities.
Education in Fall River lags behind state standards. The public school system faces budget constraints and low test scores.
The city’s aging infrastructure presents problems. Many roads and buildings require repairs or upgrades.
Fall River’s location offers limited job opportunities compared to more prosperous regions of Massachusetts. The local economy has not fully recovered from the decline of its manufacturing base.
Substance abuse issues impact the community. The opioid crisis has hit Fall River particularly hard, straining local resources.
8. Everett
Everett, a city located just north of Boston, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with high population density, leading to congestion and limited housing options.
Crime rates in Everett are higher than the state average, raising concerns about safety among residents. The city also grapples with air quality issues due to its proximity to industrial areas and heavy traffic.
Public schools in Everett perform below the state average, potentially affecting educational opportunities for young residents. The city’s cost of living is relatively high compared to many other parts of Massachusetts.
Everett’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repairs and upgrades. Limited green spaces and recreational areas within the city boundaries can affect residents’ quality of life.
9. Lynn
Lynn, located in Essex County, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly property crimes and thefts. This contributes to a sense of unease among community members.
Lynn’s public schools have faced criticism for underperformance, with test scores often falling below state averages. This educational concern may affect families considering relocation to the area.
The city’s economy has experienced difficulties, resulting in limited job opportunities for residents. This economic stagnation has led to higher unemployment rates compared to surrounding areas.
Lynn’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or renovation. This can impact daily life and the overall aesthetic appeal of the city.
10. Revere
Revere, located just north of Boston, faces significant challenges as a place to live. The city struggles with high crime rates, particularly property crimes, which can make residents feel unsafe.
Housing costs in Revere are steep compared to the median income, creating affordability issues for many residents. The city’s public schools also underperform compared to state averages, potentially impacting educational opportunities for children.
Traffic congestion is a major problem in Revere, especially during peak hours. This can lead to long commute times and increased stress for residents who work in nearby Boston or other surrounding areas.
Revere Beach, while historically significant, has faced issues with water quality and overcrowding during summer months. The city’s infrastructure is aging and in need of updates, which can affect the quality of life for residents.
11. Worcester
Worcester, the second-largest city in Massachusetts, faces significant challenges that impact its livability. Crime rates in Worcester exceed the national average, particularly for property crimes and violent offenses.
The city struggles with poverty, with a poverty rate higher than the state average. This economic hardship affects many residents and contributes to other social issues.
Education in Worcester presents concerns, as some public schools underperform compared to state standards. This can limit opportunities for students and affect the overall quality of life.
Worcester’s aging infrastructure requires attention, with roads and public facilities in need of repairs and updates. This can lead to inconveniences for residents and potential safety hazards.
The city experiences harsh winters, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures that can disrupt daily life and increase living costs. These weather conditions may be challenging for some residents to manage.
12. Chicopee
Chicopee, located in Hampden County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents.
Economic issues persist in Chicopee, with a median household income below the state average. This financial strain affects many residents’ quality of life and access to resources.
The city’s aging infrastructure presents problems for daily life. Outdated roads and public facilities require significant improvements, which can be costly for the municipality and taxpayers.
Education in Chicopee has room for improvement. Some schools in the district underperform compared to state standards, potentially limiting opportunities for students.
Air quality in Chicopee is a concern due to its proximity to industrial areas and heavy traffic. This environmental factor can negatively impact residents’ health and well-being.
13. Attleboro
Attleboro, a city in Bristol County, Massachusetts, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising safety concerns for residents.
Attleboro’s economy has experienced difficulties in recent years. The city has seen a decline in manufacturing jobs, which were once a significant source of employment for its residents.
The cost of living in Attleboro is higher than the national average, particularly in terms of housing expenses. This can make it challenging for some residents to afford suitable accommodations.
Traffic congestion is another issue in Attleboro, especially during peak hours. The city’s location near major highways contributes to increased traffic flow and longer commute times.
Attleboro’s public schools have received mixed reviews, with some performing below state averages. This can be a concern for families with school-age children seeking quality education options.
14. Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts, faces significant challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a high crime rate, particularly in certain neighborhoods. Property crime and violent offenses are concerns for residents.
The city’s economy has been in decline since the loss of its manufacturing base. Unemployment rates remain higher than the state average, affecting many households. Limited job opportunities contribute to financial instability for some residents.
Lowell’s public schools face difficulties, with test scores below state averages. This educational gap can hinder students’ future prospects. The city also grapples with aging infrastructure, including roads and public buildings in need of repair.
Traffic congestion is a daily frustration for commuters in Lowell. The city’s layout and inadequate public transportation options exacerbate this issue. Additionally, some areas of Lowell experience issues with urban blight and abandoned properties.
15. Taunton
Taunton, located in Bristol County, Massachusetts, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents.
Taunton’s economy has experienced difficulties, with limited job opportunities and slower growth than other parts of the state. This economic stagnation has led to a higher unemployment rate and lower median household income.
The city’s public education system has shown mixed performance, with some schools struggling to meet state standards. This can affect the quality of education available to local students.
Taunton’s aging infrastructure, including roads and public facilities, requires significant upgrades. This has resulted in increased maintenance costs for the city and inconveniences for residents.
The opioid crisis has hit Taunton particularly hard, straining local healthcare and social services. This ongoing issue has impacted community well-being and public health resources.
16. Beverly
Beverly, located on Massachusetts’ North Shore, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s high cost of living puts a strain on many households, with housing prices and property taxes above the state average.
Traffic congestion is a significant issue, particularly during peak hours. Commuters often experience lengthy delays on major routes like Route 128 and local streets.
The city’s aging infrastructure requires attention, with some roads and public facilities in need of repairs or upgrades. This can lead to inconveniences for residents and potential safety concerns.
Beverly’s public schools, while generally well-regarded, face overcrowding in some areas. This can result in larger class sizes and limited resources for students.
The city’s proximity to the coast makes it vulnerable to flooding and storm damage, particularly in low-lying areas. This poses risks to property and can disrupt daily life during severe weather events.
17. Pittsfield
Pittsfield, located in Berkshire County, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city has experienced economic struggles due to the decline of its manufacturing sector.
Unemployment rates in Pittsfield tend to be higher than the state average. This has led to financial difficulties for many residents and a decrease in property values.
Crime rates in Pittsfield are a concern for residents. The city has reported higher rates of property crime compared to many other Massachusetts communities.
Pittsfield’s public schools have shown mixed performance, with some falling below state averages in standardized test scores. This can be a drawback for families considering relocation.
The city’s aging infrastructure requires significant upgrades, which has led to increased taxes and fees for residents. Some neighborhoods have issues with outdated water and sewer systems.
Harsh winters in Pittsfield can be challenging for residents, with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures lasting for extended periods.
18. Gardner
Gardner, located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city has struggled with economic difficulties since the decline of its furniture manufacturing industry.
Unemployment rates in Gardner remain higher than the state average. This economic instability has contributed to a range of social issues within the community.
Crime rates in Gardner are a concern for residents. The city experiences higher property crime rates compared to many other Massachusetts communities.
Gardner’s public education system has faced budget constraints, affecting the quality of schools. This has led some families to seek educational opportunities elsewhere.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or renovation. This impacts the overall quality of life for residents.
19. Fitchburg
Fitchburg, a city in Worcester County, Massachusetts, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a high crime rate, which exceeds both state and national averages.
Unemployment in Fitchburg is another concern, with rates consistently higher than the state average. This economic instability affects the overall quality of life for many residents.
The city’s public school system has faced difficulties, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards. This can be a significant drawback for families considering settling in the area.
Fitchburg’s aging infrastructure is also a point of contention. Many roads and public buildings require repairs or upgrades, which can be costly for the city and its taxpayers.
The downtown area, while historic, has experienced a decline in recent years. Some storefronts remain vacant, detracting from the city’s visual appeal and economic vitality.
20. Leominster
Leominster, located in Worcester County, Massachusetts, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, particularly in property crimes.
Economic issues plague Leominster, with a median household income below the state average. This financial strain affects residents’ quality of life and limits local development opportunities.
The city’s public schools perform below state averages in standardized tests, raising concerns about educational quality. This may deter families seeking strong academic environments for their children.
Leominster’s aging infrastructure requires significant investment. Many roads and public facilities need repairs or updates, which can inconvenience residents and strain the city’s budget.
The city lacks diverse entertainment and cultural options, leaving residents with limited recreational choices. This scarcity of amenities may contribute to a less vibrant community atmosphere.
Economic Challenges
Massachusetts faces significant economic hurdles in certain areas. These challenges impact residents’ financial stability and quality of life.
High Unemployment Rates
Several Massachusetts cities grapple with above-average unemployment rates. Springfield consistently experiences joblessness above the state average. In 2023, its unemployment rate reached 7.2%, compared to the state’s 3.5%.
Lawrence also struggles with high unemployment. The city’s rate hit 8.1% in 2023, more than double the state average. This impacts residents’ ability to find stable work and support their families.
Fall River faces similar challenges. Its unemployment rate stood at 6.8% in 2023, significantly higher than the state norm. The lack of job opportunities contributes to economic hardship for many residents.
Low Median Household Incomes
Some Massachusetts communities face the challenge of low median household incomes. Springfield’s median household income was $41,571 in 2023, well below the state median of $84,385.
Lawrence residents also experience financial strain. The city’s median household income reached only $44,613 in 2023. This low figure makes it difficult for families to afford basic necessities and housing.
Fall River faces comparable income challenges. Its median household income stood at $45,499 in 2023. The combination of low incomes and high living costs creates financial stress for many residents.
These economic factors contribute to the difficulties faced by residents in these areas, impacting their overall quality of life and financial stability.
Crime and Safety Concerns
Massachusetts faces significant challenges in certain areas regarding public safety and law enforcement effectiveness. These issues impact residents’ quality of life and sense of security.
Higher Crime Rates
Several Massachusetts cities experience elevated crime levels compared to national averages. Springfield consistently ranks among the most dangerous cities in the state, with violent crime rates nearly three times the national average. Lawrence and Fall River also struggle with high property crime rates.
Worcester has seen an uptick in gang activity and drug-related offenses in recent years. Certain neighborhoods in Boston, like Roxbury and Dorchester, report higher instances of robberies and assaults.
Smaller towns aren’t immune. Holyoke faces ongoing issues with drug trafficking and associated crimes. North Adams grapples with a rising burglary rate.
Limited Police Presence
Many Massachusetts communities contend with understaffed police departments. Budget constraints have led to fewer officers on patrol in cities like New Bedford and Brockton.
Rural areas often have sparse law enforcement coverage. Towns in Berkshire and Franklin counties may wait extended periods for police response due to limited resources.
Some cities struggle to retain officers. Lowell has faced high turnover rates, impacting community policing efforts. Smaller towns like Ware have difficulty filling vacant positions, leaving shifts understaffed.
Reduced police visibility can embolden criminals and leave residents feeling vulnerable. Night patrols have been cut in some areas, potentially increasing opportunities for crime.
