The Top 30 Worst Places to Live in the United States

21. Brownsville, TX

This border town not only deals with crime but also with high unemployment rates. More than 27% of its residents live below the poverty level. While the cost of living and home prices are much lower here, good-paying jobs are hard to find. Because of its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, Brownsville is also one of the most hurricane-vulnerable cities in the country. Noise pollution, due to the air traffic in and out of the local airport, is a major factor affecting the quality of life.

• Unemployment rate: 6.5%
• Median household income: $40,924
• Walk Score ranking: 35 (car dependent)