The Worst States to Live in Texas: Cities Struggling with High Unemployment, Poverty, and Crime

Texas Towns Struggling with High Unemployment and Poverty in 2024

Community Efforts Shine Amidst Challenges in Worst States

Robstown, located near Corpus Christi deals with a poverty rate of nearly 40% and limited job opportunities outside agriculture. Public schools are underfunded and have low test scores while the crime rate is about three times higher than average.

Livingston

Livingston, close to Lake Livingston is marked by a high crime rate 90% above the national average, low median income of $33,000, and poor education and health indicators. The town’s challenges are compounded by these factors.

San Benito

San Benito near the Mexico border suffers from high poverty levels at 30%, below-average incomes and under-resourced schools. The crime rate is more than double the state average making it a difficult environment for residents.

Balch Springs

Balch Springs a suburb east of Dallas is struggling with a high crime rate 225% above average, widespread poverty, and outdated infrastructure. The local school district is also rated poorly affecting families in the area.

Port Arthur

Port Arthur located on the Gulf Coast, faces severe problems with crime, poverty, and deteriorating infrastructure exacerbated by repeated hurricanes. Nearly one in three residents live below the poverty line.

Cleveland

Cleveland is challenged by high poverty rates and elevated crime. The median household income is $46,875 with 10% of families in poverty. The crime rate in Cleveland is significantly higher than the national average creating safety concerns.

Donna

Donna is dealing with socioeconomic hardships including a median household income of $34,049 and a poverty rate of 33.3%. The crime rate is notably high, almost double the national average pointing to urgent needs for intervention.

Killeen

Killeen is noted for its high violent crime rates and economic struggles with 15.7% of the population living in poverty. Gang violence and drug trafficking contribute to safety concerns and public schools are also facing challenges. The crime rate in Killeen surpasses that of many other Texas cities.