Top 10 Worst Places to Live In Arkansas In 2024

Top 10 Worst Places to Live In Arkansas . Top 10 Worst Cities In Arkansas to Live, Raise a Family, Job or Retire. Top 10 Worst Towns in Arkansas. Top 10 Worst Villages in Arkansas. If you’re thinking about a move to Arkansas, here are the places you should avoid to live, retire or raise a family. 10 Most Dangerous Cities In Arkansas You Should Never Move To. Top 10 Worst Cities To Live In North Carolina. 10 Places in Arkansas You Should NEVER Move To.



TOP 10 WORST PLACES TO LIVE IN ARKANSAS

1. HELENA WEST HELENA

Nestled along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, Helena West Helena stands as a beacon of history and resilience in eastern Arkansas. With its population of approximately 10,487 residents, this city is located about 50 miles southwest of Memphis, Tennessee. Surrounded by the fertile lands of the Arkansas Delta, Helena West Helena boasts a rich cultural heritage and is renowned for its vibrant music scene, including the annual King Biscuit Blues Festival.

Despite its picturesque surroundings, Helena West Helena faces significant socioeconomic challenges. The city ranks 3rd in Unemployment, 3rd in Median Income, and 2nd in Poverty in Arkansas. Moreover, it holds the unfortunate distinction of ranking 1st in Murders and 4th in Robberies in the state.

The poverty rate in Helena West Helena stands at 39.3%, which is 180.71% higher than the national average. The typical household income is $23,483 annually, significantly lower than the national average. These economic disparities contribute to the city's high crime rates and unemployment levels.

With an unemployment rate of 16.2%, which is 244.68% higher than the national rate, Helena West Helena faces challenges in providing economic opportunities for its residents. Additionally, the city's overall crime rate is 178.93% higher than the national average, with a 1 in 64 chance of being a victim of violent crime.

Population : 10487
Unemployment Rate : 16.2%
Poverty : 39.3%
Median Home Value : $77800
Median Home Income : $23483
Overall Score : 1/10

2. WEST MEMPHIS

Situated on the western bank of the Mississippi River, West Memphis is a bustling city with a population of around 24,656 residents. Located just across the river from Memphis, Tennessee, this vibrant community is known for its strategic location as a transportation hub and its diverse industrial base. With easy access to major highways and railways, West Memphis serves as a gateway to the Mid-South region and offers a thriving economy and dynamic cultural scene. 

Despite its attractions, West Memphis faces significant socioeconomic challenges. The city ranks 8th in Unemployment and 10th in Median Income in Arkansas. Additionally, it holds notable positions in crime statistics, ranking 3rd in Total Crimes, 2nd in Violent Crimes, 2nd in Robberies, and 2nd in Assaults.

With a poverty rate of 26.6%, which is 90% higher than the national average, and a median household income of $32,601 annually, significantly lower than the national average, West Memphis struggles to provide economic opportunities for its residents.

The city's unemployment rate is 11.1%, which is 136.17% higher than the national rate. Moreover, its overall crime rate is 199.55% higher than the national average, with a 1 in 41 chance of being a victim of violent crime.

Population : 24656
Unemployment Rate : 11.1%
Poverty : 26.6%
Median Home Value : $86100
Median Home Income : $32601
Overall Score : 2/10

3. PINE BLUFF

Nestled in the heart of the Arkansas Delta, Pine Bluff is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. With a population of approximately 42,323 residents, Pine Bluff is situated about 45 miles southeast of Little Rock, the state capital. Renowned for its rich agricultural heritage and scenic landscapes, Pine Bluff offers residents and visitors alike a serene escape from the bustle of urban life. As the largest city in Jefferson County, Pine Bluff serves as a regional center for commerce, education, and culture.

However, Pine Bluff grapples with socioeconomic challenges, ranking 10th in Unemployment in Arkansas. Additionally, it holds significant positions in crime statistics, ranking 4th in Total Crimes, 4th in Violent Crimes, 4th in Murders, 5th in Robberies, 3rd in Assaults, and 1st in Car Thefts.

The poverty rate in Pine Bluff stands at 25.4%, which is 81.43% higher than the national average. The typical household income is $34,410 annually, significantly lower than the national average, contributing to economic disparities within the city.

With an unemployment rate of 10.8%, which is 129.79% higher than the national rate, Pine Bluff faces challenges in providing employment opportunities for its residents. Moreover, the city's overall crime rate is 186.42% higher than the national average, with a 1 in 57 chance of being a victim of violent crime.

Population : 42323
Unemployment Rate : 10.8%
Poverty : 25.4%
Median Home Value : $74900
Median Home Income : $34410
Overall Score : 3/10

4. NEWPORT

Located in eastern Arkansas, Newport is about 25 miles southwest of Jonesboro. With a population of around 7,552 residents, Newport thrives amidst the lush landscapes of the White River Valley.

The city of Newport ranks 11th in Unemployment and Median Income in Arkansas. However, it holds the distinction of ranking 2nd in Total Crimes, 1st in Property Crimes, 5th in Burglaries, and 4th in Larcenies in the state.

The poverty rate in Newport stands at 23.4%, approximately 67% higher than the national average. Despite the challenges, Newport boasts a resilient community, with residents striving to overcome economic hardships.

The unemployment rate remains high at around 10.3%, significantly surpassing the national average by approximately 119%. This has likely contributed to the city's widespread poverty, with 1 in every 4 residents living below the poverty line.

Newport faces considerable challenges in terms of crime, with the overall crime rate approximately 204% higher than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 81 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 17 chance of being a victim of property crime.

Population : 7552
Unemployment Rate : 10.3%
Poverty : 23.4%
Median Home Value : $83700
Median Home Income : $32783
Overall Score : 4/10

5. FORREST CITY

Nestled in eastern Arkansas, Forrest City is situated approximately 45 miles west of Memphis, Tennessee. With a population of about 14,062 residents, this city is surrounded by the rolling hills of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain. 

The city ranks 4th in Poverty in Arkansas, with a poverty rate of around 33.1%, significantly higher than the national average by approximately 136%. Despite economic challenges, Forrest City residents exhibit resilience and determination.

The unemployment rate in Forrest City stands at around 6.9%, approximately 47% higher than the national average. This high jobless rate contributes to the city's economic struggles, with 1 in every 3 residents living below the poverty line.

Forrest City faces significant crime-related challenges, with the overall crime rate approximately 161% higher than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 63 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 23 chance of being a victim of property crime.

Population : 14062
Unemployment Rate : 6.9%
Poverty : 33.1%
Median Home Value : $67500
Median Home Income : $33062
Overall Score : 1/10

6. MARIANNA

Positioned in eastern Arkansas, Marianna is around 90 miles west of Memphis, Tennessee. Home to approximately 3,575 residents, Marianna lies within the fertile lands of the Arkansas Delta region.

The city ranks 1st in Unemployment and Median Income, as well as 5th in Poverty in Arkansas. Additionally, Marianna ranks 3rd in Murders, highlighting the city's challenges with crime.

The poverty rate in Marianna stands at around 32.3%, significantly higher than the national average by approximately 131%. Despite economic hardships, the community remains resilient, striving for a better future.

The unemployment rate in Marianna is exceptionally high at around 18.9%, approximately 302% higher than the national average. This staggering unemployment rate underscores the city's economic struggles.

Marianna faces crime-related challenges, with the overall crime rate approximately 81% higher than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 128 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 32 chance of being a victim of property crime.

Population : 3575
Unemployment Rate : 18.9%
Poverty : 32.3%
Median Home Value : $68500
Median Home Income : $17156
Overall Score : 4/10

7. BLYTHEVILLE

Blytheville, located in the northeastern part of Arkansas, thrives as a prominent city in Mississippi County. Known for its agricultural heritage, Blytheville has historically relied on farming as a major industry. The city's strategic location near major transportation routes, including Interstate 55, has also contributed to its economic vitality.

The poverty rate in Blytheville stands at 23.4%, approximately 67.14% higher than the national average. Despite the city's industrious spirit, 1 in every 4 residents struggles to make ends meet, emphasizing the need for community support and economic development initiatives.

With an unemployment rate of 12.1%, which is 157.45% higher than the national rate, Blytheville faces significant challenges in providing employment opportunities for its residents. The city's efforts to attract new businesses and promote job growth are crucial in addressing this issue.

In terms of crime, Blytheville ranks 5th in Property Crimes, 2nd in Murders, 4th in Robberies, and 1st in Larcenies in the state of Arkansas. The city's overall crime rate is 177.86% higher than the national average, highlighting the importance of community safety and law enforcement efforts.

Population : 13735
Unemployment Rate : 12.1%
Poverty : 25.7%
Median Home Value : $81900
Median Home Income : $40329
Overall Score : 2/10

8. OSCEOLA

Osceola, situated along the eastern banks of the Mississippi River, is a key player in Arkansas's economic landscape. With its proximity to Memphis, Tennessee, Osceola benefits from its location as a transportation and logistics hub.

The poverty rate in Osceola stands at 19.3%, approximately 37.86% higher than the national average. Despite its strategic location, the city faces economic challenges, with 1 in every 5 residents living below the poverty line.

Osceola's unemployment rate is 13.2%, significantly higher than the national average. The city's efforts to attract new industries and create employment opportunities are crucial in revitalizing its economy and improving residents' quality of life.

In terms of crime, Osceola ranks 1st in Total Crimes, Violent Crimes, and Assaults in Arkansas. The city's overall crime rate is 218.7% higher than the national average, underscoring the importance of community policing and crime prevention strategies.

Population : 6786
Unemployment Rate : 13.2%
Poverty : 19.3%
Median Home Value : $87500
Median Home Income : $37871
Overall Score : 2/10

9. WALDRON

Waldron, nestled in the scenic Ouachita Mountains of western Arkansas, offers residents a tranquil and picturesque setting. Despite its natural beauty, Waldron faces economic challenges, with a reliance on industries such as agriculture and manufacturing.

The poverty rate in Waldron stands at 26.2%, approximately 87.14% higher than the national average. With 1 in every 4 residents experiencing financial hardship, the city is working to diversify its economy and create new opportunities for growth.

Waldron's unemployment rate is 11%, significantly higher than the national average. The city's efforts to attract investment and foster entrepreneurship are critical in addressing unemployment and promoting economic stability.

In terms of crime, Waldron ranks 2nd in Burglaries in Arkansas. While the city's overall crime rate is 88.65% higher than the national average, Waldron remains committed to enhancing public safety through community policing and crime prevention initiatives.

Population : 3405
Unemployment Rate : 11%
Poverty : 26.2%
Median Home Value : $70200
Median Home Income : $27465
Overall Score : 1/10

10. WYNNE

Wynne, located in eastern Arkansas, is a vibrant community known for its rich agricultural heritage. Situated amidst vast farmlands, the city thrives as a hub for cotton and soybean production, contributing significantly to the region's economy.

Despite its agricultural prowess, Wynne faces socioeconomic challenges, with a poverty rate of 21.9%, approximately 56.43% higher than the national average. With 1 in every 5 residents grappling with financial insecurity, the city seeks to diversify its economy and create new job opportunities.

Wynne's unemployment rate stands at 7.7%, reflecting the city's efforts to maintain a stable job market. While higher than the national average, Wynne's unemployment rate underscores the importance of ongoing economic development initiatives.

In terms of crime, Wynne's overall crime rate is 108.08% higher than the national average. With violent crime and property crime rates exceeding national averages, the city prioritizes community safety through proactive law enforcement and community engagement efforts.

Population : 7773
Unemployment Rate : 7.7%
Poverty : 21.9%
Median Home Value : $87600
Median Home Income : $36310
Overall Score : 3/10

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