8. Milwaukee, WI
Major Industry: Electronics and food & beverage manufacturing
Annual Growth Rate: 0.35%*
When you think of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, cheese and famous breweries might come to mind, but this dynamic midwestern city has more to offer than meets the eye. Despite its challenges, Milwaukee has a fascinating story to tell. Once the birthplace of Kohl’s and other large companies, Milwaukee has faced its share of hard times. Rising crime rates have left residents unsettled, and the city’s infrastructure is in desperate need of a revamp to handle the harsh winters. Indeed, Milwaukee was once known as one of the top ten most dangerous cities in the US, but it has come a long way since then. While certain crimes persist at higher rates than the national average, progress is being made. Millennials, in particular, are seeking new job opportunities outside of Milwaukee, as the city’s job market has seen a decline over the past few decades. Young professionals are flocking to vibrant cities like Las Vegas and San Antonio in search of more promising careers and an overall improved quality of life. But despite the challenges, Milwaukee perseveres. Its rich history, diverse culture, and resilient community make it a city worth exploring. So the next time you think of Milwaukee, look beyond the stereotypes and discover the hidden gems this city has to offer.
8. Milwaukee, WI
9. Atlantic City, NJ
Major Industries: Gambling and tourism
Annual Growth Rate: -0.28%*
Step the Las Vegas of the East Coast, a vibrant destination with something for everyone. Indulge in family-style feasts at places like Olive Garden, try your luck in casinos, unwind in luxurious resorts, and shop ’til you drop. But behind the glittering facade lies a different reality for the locals of Atlantic City. Once lifted from years of economic woe by legalized gambling in the 1970s, the city now grapples with the aftermath of the great recession, the havoc Hurricane Sandy wreaked, and the closure of four casinos in 2014. While the city boasts beach access, its freezing weather for half the year renders it unusable. Unlike the warmth of Vegas, Atlantic City struggles to attract visitors and residents alike. Bankrupt casinos and economic downfall have forced “America’s Playground” into a downward spiral. To revive its prosperity, the governor of New Jersey proposed a referendum to break Atlantic City’s gambling monopoly, allowing other municipalities to enter the game. The outcome, however, remains uncertain. Atlantic City is a tale of faded splendor, where dreams and fortunes once flourished. Will it reclaim its former glory? Only time will tell.
9. Atlantic City, NJ
