12 Small Towns in America That People Keep Moving to—And Instantly Regret It
Moving to a small town sounds like the perfect escape—affordable homes, less traffic, and a tight-knit community. But sometimes, reality hits hard. Skyrocketing costs, job shortages, political tensions, or even environmental disasters can turn a dream relocation into a nightmare. These places have left many residents second-guessing their move.
If you’re thinking about trading city life for small-town charm, take note—these 15 small towns in America are where newcomers have experienced unforeseen difficulties:
Picher, Oklahoma
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This town could literally poison you. Picher was once a booming mining community until toxic lead and zinc waste turned it into a health hazard. By 2009, the government shut it down, and left behind eerie ruins and a deadly legacy.
Centralia, Pennsylvania
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It sounds like something out of a horror movie: a coal mine fire burning beneath an entire town—since 1962. Residents fled as toxic gases, sinkholes, and crumbling roads made Centralia unlivable. Today, only a handful remain, while the rest of the town is slowly being reclaimed by nature and smoke.
Soul City, North Carolina
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Founded in the 1970s as an ambitious planned community for Black Americans, Soul City was supposed to be a thriving economic hub. Instead, mismanagement, political roadblocks, and lack of investment caused it to collapse.
Stilwell, Oklahoma
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Famous for strawberries but infamous for poverty, Stilwell is one of the toughest places to live in the U.S. Limited healthcare, high unemployment, and the nation’s lowest life expectancy make it a harsh reality for newcomers. It’s not exactly the fresh start many hope for.
Patton Village, Texas
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Patton Village in Texas has a long history of political scandals. Corrupt leadership, financial mismanagement, and misused public funds have led to instability and frustration among residents. This town is more of a cautionary tale.
Delano, California
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Delano struggles with gang-related violence and limited job opportunities. The lack of safety and community resources makes it a challenging place to live. Many who move here seeking stability quickly realize they’ve stepped into a much tougher reality.
Charleroi, Pennsylvania
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Once thriving, Charleroi’s decline left behind crumbling infrastructure and economic hardship. While new residents have arrived, the town’s resources are stretched thin. The contrast between the old guard and newcomers has led to tensions.
Shamrock, Oklahoma
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With a population of just 40, Shamrock is beyond small–it’s nearly nonexistent. While some appreciate the quiet, others quickly realize that isolation, lack of amenities, and nonexistent job prospects make life here difficult.
Wayne County, Ohio
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Despite its economic growth, Wayne County has become a battleground of political and cultural clashes. Newcomers hoping for a welcoming community often find themselves caught between long-time residents and shifting demographics. The divide has made it difficult for many to settle in without feeling out of place.
Centre County, Pennsylvania
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Centre County’s main appeal lies in its proximity to Penn State, but that also brings an ever-changing population and political tensions. Long-time locals and new arrivals often struggle to agree.
Truckee, California
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This quiet mountain became a remote-work hotspot during the pandemic. However, the influx of people caused housing prices to skyrocket and infrastructure to strain under the demand. This hidden gem has become overcrowded and overpriced, and, for some, a major regret.
Aspen, Colorado
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Aspen is stunning, but unless you’re loaded, good luck affording a place to live. The town’s housing crisis has priced out many middle-class workers, or left them commuting long distances.
Bethel, Maine
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Many who came to Bethel for a fresh start are now rethinking their move. The town’s picturesque landscape attracts plenty of visitors, but those who move there often find it hard to stay. The cost of living has soared due to an influx of remote workers.
The Hamptons, New York
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The Hamptons became a full-time residence for thousands during the pandemic. But it didn’t do well. Insane traffic, a strained local economy, and skyrocketing housing costs drove people away at the same pace.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
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Cape Cod’s beaches and charm attract plenty of people, but living here full-time isn’t easy. The housing shortage and rising costs have driven many to regret their decision. It’s an expensive and frustrating place to call home.