Ohio is one of the states that has been experiencing a population decline in recent years, as more people are moving out than moving in. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio lost about 16,000 residents from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, ranking it 43rd among the 50 states in terms of population growth.

But not all cities in Ohio are equally affected by this trend. Some cities have seen a significant exodus of residents, while others have managed to attract new arrivals. Here are some of the cities in Ohio that people are leaving in droves, and some of the reasons why.

Cleveland

Cleveland is the largest city in Ohio, but also one of the most shrinking ones. The city lost about 5,700 residents from 2021 to 2022, a 1.1% decrease in its population. Cleveland has been struggling with economic decline, poverty, crime, and racial segregation for decades, and many residents are seeking better opportunities elsewhere. The city also has a high tax burden, ranking 10th among the 50 largest U.S. cities in terms of combined state and local tax rates.

Youngstown

Youngstown is another city that has been hit hard by deindustrialization and population loss. The city lost about 1,300 residents from 2021 to 2022, a 2.1% decrease in its population. Youngstown was once a thriving steel manufacturing hub, but the industry collapsed in the late 20th century, leaving behind unemployment, poverty, and urban decay. The city has been trying to reinvent itself as a center for innovation and education, but many residents have given up hope and moved away.

Dayton

Dayton is a city that has been facing multiple challenges, such as the opioid epidemic, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2019 tornadoes that caused widespread damage. The city lost about 1,100 residents from 2021 to 2022, a 0.8% decrease in its population. Dayton has a high poverty rate, ranking 7th among the 50 largest U.S. cities in terms of the percentage of residents living below the federal poverty line. The city also has a low median household income, ranking 49th among the same group of cities.

Toledo

Toledo is a city that has been suffering from a lack of economic diversification and growth. The city lost about 900 residents from 2021 to 2022, a 0.6% decrease in its population. Toledo relies heavily on the automotive industry, which has been facing competition from foreign markets and technological changes. The city also has a high crime rate, ranking 18th among the 50 largest U.S. cities in terms of the number of violent crimes per 100,000 residents.

Canton

Canton is a city that has been losing its appeal and identity. The city lost about 600 residents from 2021 to 2022, a 1.1% decrease in its population. Canton is best known as the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but the attraction has not been enough to keep residents and visitors interested. The city also has a low quality of life, ranking 48th among the 50 largest U.S. cities in terms of the percentage of residents who are satisfied with their city.

Conclusion

Ohio is a state that has been facing a mass exodus of residents, especially from some of its major cities. The reasons for this phenomenon are complex and varied, but they often include economic decline, social problems, and environmental issues. Some cities in Ohio have been trying to reverse this trend by investing in infrastructure, education, and innovation, but the results have been mixed and slow. Unless Ohio can find a way to revitalize its cities and retain its residents, it may continue to lose its population and influence in the coming years.