New Ranking Finds Michigan Home to Neediest City in America

We all know cities across the country are struggling with economic and social issues from inflation and homelessness. You would be hard-pressed to find a state that doesn't have some sort of neediest right now, but some states seem to be struggling a bit more than others.

Highlighting the need and rallying support for a city facing challenges can be a powerful way to bring attention and encourage action. According to a new study by WalletHub ranking those cities facing the toughest hardships, Michigan has been identified as home to the neediest city in America.

WalletHub analyzed more than 180 U.S. cities to collect data from 28 key indicators of economic disadvantages such as child poverty, food insecurity, and uninsured rates.

“When most people hear the word ‘needy,’ they immediately think about physical needs like food, healthcare, and shelter. Many other factors that can contribute to a city’s neediness aren’t immediately obvious. Cities also need to address problems like school dropout rates, lack of access to quality internet, overcrowding in housing units, poor mental health, and more", said WalletHub analyst Cassandra Happe. 

 

What Michigan City Ranked Neediest in America?

Taking the top spot on WalletHub's list as the "Neediest City in America" is Michigan's own Detroit. The study found Detroit with a score of 61.43 on analyzed factors ranking #1 for economic well-being and #5 for health & safety.

Detroit has been working hard to improve its image and has made major progress in creating a city where people want to work & play. In fact, it will be in the national spotlight this spring when it hosts the 2024 NFL Draft which is huge for the city's economy. Hopefully, it will be just the start of bigger things to come.

Take a look at the full rankings of the "Neediest Cities in America" here. Detroit was joined by Grand Rapids as well on the list which ranked #109.