This City Has Been Named the Worst City to Live in New Hampshire
Manchester, New Hampshire, the state’s largest city, has been named the worst city to live in by personal finance website WalletHub. The ranking, which considered 15 factors, including crime rates, poverty rates, housing affordability, and the quality of school systems, placed Manchester last in 11 of the 15 categories.
Factors Contributing to Manchester’s Low Ranking
The city’s high crime rate is a major concern. With a crime rate of 15.6 per 1,000 people, significantly higher than the state average of 11.3 per 1,000 people, Manchester faces a significant challenge in ensuring public safety.
Another significant issue is the city’s poverty rate. With a poverty rate of 20.2%, substantially higher than the state average of 10.6%, Manchester struggles to provide essential resources and opportunities for many of its residents.
The lack of affordable housing further exacerbates the challenges faced by Manchester residents. The median home value in Manchester is $310,000, while the median household income is only $52,600. This disparity makes it difficult for many residents to afford homeownership, forcing them to rent instead. The median rent in Manchester is $1,400 per month, higher than the state average of $1,200 per month.
| City | Crime Rate | Poverty Rate | Median Home Value | Median Household Income | Median Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester | 15.6 | 20.2 | 310000 | 52600 | 1400 |
| Concord | 9.2 | 11.7 | 265000 | 68400 | 1200 |
| Nashua | 12.8 | 14.2 | 285000 | 64800 | 1300 |
| Dover | 10.4 | 12.1 | 250000 | 62100 | 1150 |
| Rochester | 11.3 | 13.5 | 245000 | 59200 | 1100 |
Efforts to Address Manchester’s Challenges
The city of Manchester is taking steps to address its crime rate and improve housing affordability.
To combat crime, the city has implemented various initiatives, including a community policing program aimed at fostering stronger relationships between law enforcement and residents. Additionally, a youth violence prevention program seeks to provide support and intervention for at-risk youth, steering them away from criminal activities.
In terms of housing affordability, the city is working to attract new businesses and create jobs. This economic development strategy aims to boost the economy, potentially leading to increased wages and improved housing affordability.
Conclusion
While Manchester faces significant challenges, the city’s efforts to address these issues demonstrate a commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents. With continued efforts in crime reduction, economic development, and housing affordability, Manchester has the potential to overcome its current challenges and emerge as a more vibrant and livable city.
FAQ’s
Q: What is the population of Manchester, New Hampshire?
- A: As of 2022, the population of Manchester, New Hampshire is estimated to be 112,352 people.
Q: What is the cost of living in Manchester, New Hampshire?
- A: The cost of living in Manchester, New Hampshire is slightly higher than the national average. The median home value in Manchester is $310,000, the median household income is $52,600, and the median rent is $1,400 per month.
Q: What are the major industries in Manchester, New Hampshire?
- A: The major industries in Manchester, New Hampshire are finance, insurance, and real estate; healthcare; and manufacturing.
Q: What are some of the attractions in Manchester, New Hampshire?
- A: Some of the attractions in Manchester, New Hampshire include the Manchester Millyard, a former textile mill complex that has been converted into a mixed-use development; the SEE Science Center, a hands-on science museum; and the Currier Museum of Art, which houses a collection of American and European art.
Q: What are some of the challenges facing Manchester, New Hampshire?
- A: Some of the challenges facing Manchester, New Hampshire include a high crime rate, a poverty rate, and a lack of affordable housing.
Q: What is the city of Manchester doing to address these challenges?
- A: The city of Manchester is working to address its crime rate by implementing various initiatives, including a community policing program and a youth violence prevention program. The city is also working to improve housing affordability by attracting new businesses and creating jobs.
