Connecticut is a state with a rich history, a high per-capita income, and a low violent crime rate. However, not all of its cities are equally desirable to live in. Some have higher crime rates, lower quality of life, and fewer opportunities than others. Based on the latest data and reports, one city stands out as the worst place to live in Connecticut: Hartford.
Hartford: The Most Dangerous City in the State
Hartford, Connecticut’s state capital, also ranks as the worst place to live in the state. There were 858 violent crimes for every 100,000 people in Hartford in 2019, making it the most dangerous city in the state and one of the most dangerous in the country. In particular, the city has the highest homicide rate, with 17 homicides for every 100,000 residents. Property crime rates are also high, with 2,801 such crimes per 100,000 population.
Hartford is one of the oldest cities in the U.S. Although it was once the richest city in the U.S., 30% of its families now live in poverty despite earning the nickname of The Insurance Capital Of The World for the large number of insurance companies that reside here. Following World War II, middle-class workers started to leave the city in their droves, and despite urban renewal efforts, the city continued to decline. Further efforts have been made since 2000, but as yet, they have not helped improve Hartford’s fortunes or crime levels.
Hartford: The Least Livable City in the State
Hartford’s high crime rate is not the only factor that makes it the worst city to live in Connecticut. The city also suffers from low livability scores, which measure various aspects of quality of life, such as housing, education, health, economy, and environment. According to AreaVibes, Hartford has an overall livability score of 51 out of 100, which is lower than the state average of 66 and the national average of 70. The city scores especially low on housing, education, and employment.
Hartford’s housing market is unaffordable, with a median home value of $164,900, which is 10% lower than the state average but 32% higher than the national average. However, the median household income in Hartford is only $36,278, which is 54% lower than the state average and 51% lower than the national average. This means that many residents spend more than 30% of their income on housing, which is considered a burden. Moreover, the city has a high vacancy rate of 12%, which indicates a lack of demand and a surplus of supply.
Hartford’s education system is also underperforming, with a high school graduation rate of only 71%, which is 13% lower than the state average and 16% lower than the national average. The city also has a low college attainment rate of 18%, which is 20% lower than the state average and 12% lower than the national average. This means that many residents lack the skills and qualifications to compete in the job market, which leads to lower incomes and higher unemployment.
Hartford’s employment situation is bleak, with an unemployment rate of 11%, which is more than double the state average of 5% and the national average of 4.7%. The city also has a low median household income of $36,278, which is 54% lower than the state average and 51% lower than the national average. The city’s poverty rate is 31%, which is more than double the state average of 12% and the national average of 13%. This means that many residents struggle to afford basic necessities, such as food, clothing, and health care.
Conclusion
Hartford is the worst city to live in Connecticut, based on its high crime rate, low livability score, and poor housing, education, and employment conditions. The city has a long history of decline and decay, and despite some attempts at revitalization, it has not been able to reverse its fortunes. Hartford is a city that needs urgent attention and intervention, as it is not only a bad place to live, but also a drag on the state’s economy and reputation.