Massachusetts, one of the oldest and most historically significant states in the U.S., is home to many charming towns and vibrant cities. However, not all of its communities are considered ideal for long-term living.
In recent years, certain towns have seen an exodus of residents due to various factors like high living costs, lack of job opportunities, crime rates, and general dissatisfaction with local governance.
Here are seven Massachusetts towns that people are fleeing from as soon as possible.
1. Springfield
Once a booming industrial hub, Springfield has struggled in recent decades with economic decline and rising crime rates. The city’s unemployment rate remains high, and while the housing market offers affordable options, they often come with higher risks, such as proximity to crime.
Although Springfield has been making efforts to revitalize its downtown area and attract new businesses, many residents feel that crime and the lack of economic opportunities outweigh any potential benefits of staying.
Why People Are Fleeing:
- High crime rates, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Limited job opportunities and low wages.
- Declining schools and public services.
2. Holyoke
Holyoke, a city rich in history and once known for its thriving paper mills, has faced a significant decline in recent years. While the town offers low property prices, it also suffers from high poverty rates and poor public services.
The city’s education system struggles with underfunding, and many schools have received low rankings in terms of academic performance. Many residents cite safety concerns as another reason for leaving.
Why People Are Fleeing:
- High poverty rate and unemployment.
- Struggling schools with low educational standards.
- Increased crime and safety concerns.
3. Lynn
Lynn, once a manufacturing powerhouse, has seen a sharp decline in its economy and infrastructure over the years. Though it’s located near Boston, which has seen tremendous growth, Lynn has struggled to catch up with the city’s prosperity.
A rising number of boarded-up buildings, lack of quality public spaces, and persistent gang activity have made many residents pack up and move elsewhere.
Why People Are Fleeing:
- High crime rates and gang violence.
- Decreased quality of public services, including schools.
- Lack of economic development and job opportunities.
4. Fall River
This former textile manufacturing hub has been plagued by economic stagnation for years. Though it offers affordable housing options, the crime rate and unemployment have kept many people from settling in Fall River.
Property taxes are higher than average, and the local government struggles to balance the budget, affecting essential services. Education in the city has also been subpar, with many parents choosing to send their children to private schools or relocate to better areas for schooling.
Why People Are Fleeing:
- High crime rates, especially property crime.
- Poor schools and low educational rankings.
- Economic stagnation and high taxes.
5. Chelsea
Chelsea, a suburb of Boston, has seen an influx of new residents, but many longtime residents are leaving due to rising rents and gentrification.
While some areas have undergone revitalization, the city still struggles with poverty and crime. The housing market has soared, making it increasingly unaffordable for many residents, while schools and public services have remained substandard.
Why People Are Fleeing:
- Rising housing costs and gentrification.
- Increased crime in certain neighborhoods.
- Poor quality of schools and public services.
6. Worcester
Worcester, known as the “Heart of the Commonwealth,” has made efforts to rejuvenate its downtown and attract new businesses. However, despite these efforts, many of its residents still feel frustrated with the slow pace of change.
While crime rates have improved in some parts of the city, there are still significant challenges with unemployment, especially in lower-income areas. In addition, some residents feel that the city’s government has been ineffective in addressing these issues.
Why People Are Fleeing:
- Slow economic recovery and high unemployment.
- Crime remains an issue in some neighborhoods.
- Dissatisfaction with local government and leadership.
7. Brockton
Brockton, once known as the “City of Champions” due to its history in boxing, has struggled to maintain its reputation as a vibrant community. The town’s economy has been hit hard by the closure of factories and manufacturing plants, leading to high unemployment.
Brockton also faces high crime rates and struggles with drug abuse, making it an unappealing place for many residents. While the housing market remains affordable, the challenges facing the city have led to an exodus of families seeking better opportunities elsewhere.
Why People Are Fleeing:
- High unemployment and economic decline.
- Persistent crime, especially violent crime.
- Drug abuse and a lack of community engagement.
Conclusion
While Massachusetts is home to many beautiful, thriving communities, certain towns have become less desirable due to a combination of economic decline, rising crime rates, and poor public services. As a result, many residents have chosen to leave for better opportunities, safer neighborhoods, and better quality of life. While some of these towns are making efforts to turn things around, it remains to be seen if their efforts will be enough to stop the outflow of residents in the years to come.
