ARIZONA (DDN) – Arizona offers beautiful landscapes and lively cities, making it a destination where many discover peace and excitement. Not all towns in the Grand Canyon State are doing well. Many towns are seeing a concerning number of residents moving away. This piece examines five Arizona towns that residents are leaving quickly. Factors include economic downturns, elevated crime rates, insufficient amenities, and environmental issues. Let’s get started.
5 Places Residents are Leaving
Arizona features a mix of vibrant cities such as Phoenix and Tucson alongside quieter small towns that face various challenges throughout its expansive desert terrain. As the state draws in new residents with its pleasant climate and job prospects in cities, some towns present a different narrative. People in these areas are moving out to find better opportunities and improve their quality of life.
Here are five Arizona towns that are seeing notable decreases in their populations.
Holbrook
Holbrook, a small town in Navajo County, has experienced a notable decline in its population over the last ten years.
One major factor contributing to Holbrook’s population decline is its challenging economy. Holbrook, once a bustling center thanks to its spot on Route 66, has experienced a drop in tourism and associated businesses. The town’s median household income is notably below the state average, and job opportunities are limited, prompting many residents to look for work in other areas.
Holbrook has faced challenges with elevated crime rates. The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program indicates that Holbrook has a crime rate that exceeds the national average. Property crimes are a major concern, causing residents to feel insecure and leading them to relocate to safer neighborhoods.
Winslow
Winslow, in Navajo County, has seen a significant drop in its population. The town has seen a population drop of around 12% in the past ten years, pointing out the difficulties it encounters in keeping its residents.
The economic challenges in Winslow play a major role in the decrease of its population. The town’s economy, once boosted by its position on the historic Route 66 and the Santa Fe Railway, has faced challenges in recent years. Numerous businesses have shut down, resulting in fewer job opportunities and a higher unemployment rate than the state average.
The crime rate in the town is notably above the national average, especially when it comes to property crimes.
Douglas
Douglas has faced ongoing economic challenges. The town’s economy, which used to thrive on cross-border trade with Mexico, has faced significant challenges due to shifts in trade policies and economic declines. The shutdown of important businesses has resulted in increased unemployment and fewer job openings.
Read More – Illegal Names: 8 Names You Can’t Give Your Baby in Arizona
Crime is a significant issue in Douglas, as the town’s crime rate is notably above the national average. Being close to the U.S.-Mexico border leads to challenges like drug trafficking and associated criminal activities. The elevated crime rate has prompted numerous residents to look for more secure neighborhoods.
Living in a border town presents distinct challenges, such as heightened law enforcement presence and political tensions surrounding immigration policies.
Kingman
Kingman, situated in Mohave County, has seen its population decrease by approximately 8% in the last ten years. This drop clearly indicates the economic and social issues the town is dealing with.
Kingman’s economy has faced challenges lately, leading to many residents dealing with joblessness and insufficient work opportunities. The drop in the mining industry, which used to be a key source of jobs in the region, has greatly affected the community. The town’s median household income falls below the state average, which poses challenges for residents striving for financial stability.
Kingman faces a significant challenge with crime, as its crime rate exceeds the national average.
Safford
Safford, a small town in Graham County, has experienced a population drop of roughly 7% in the last ten years. This drop points out the economic and social issues the town is dealing with.
Safford’s economy has faced challenges lately, featuring few job opportunities and a median household income that falls below the state average. The town depends heavily on agriculture and mining, which has left it exposed to economic challenges when these sectors face downturns.
Conclusion
People are leaving these five Arizona towns due to economic difficulties, rising crime, insufficient amenities, and environmental issues.
As individuals seek improved opportunities and safer surroundings, these towns must tackle their core challenges to change the current trend and build a more sustainable future. The path forward might be tough, but it’s important to recognize and address these issues for the renewal of these communities in need.
Leave a Reply