Fresno, California is a city located in the central part of the state, and is the fifth largest city in the state. With a population of just over half a million people, Fresno is an interesting city with a unique culture and plenty of activities. But, there are a few reasons why you may not want to move to Fresno.
1. Cost of Living
Fresno has a high cost of living. According to Sperling’s Best Places, the cost of living index in Fresno is 112.9, which is higher than the national average of 100. This means that the cost of living in Fresno is 12.9% higher than the national average. So, if you’re looking for an affordable place to live, Fresno may not be the best choice.
2. Traffic Congestion
Fresno is known for its traffic congestion. During rush hour, the streets can become clogged with cars and it can take a long time to get from one place to another. This can be especially frustrating if you’re trying to get to work on time or make it to an appointment.
3. Air Quality
Fresno has poor air quality. The American Lung Association’s 2019 State of the Air Report ranked Fresno as the sixth worst city in the nation for ozone pollution. Fresno also ranked fourth worst in the nation for year-round particle pollution. This means that the air in Fresno can be unhealthy to breathe in, and can cause health problems.
4. Limited Job Opportunities
Fresno has a limited number of job opportunities. The unemployment rate in Fresno is 8.3%, which is higher than the national average of 3.7%. So, if you’re looking for a job, you may have difficulty finding one in Fresno.
5. Crime Rate
Fresno has a high crime rate. According to the FBI’s 2019 Crime in the United States report, Fresno had a violent crime rate of 745.9 per 100,000 people, which is higher than the national average of 368.9 per 100,000 people. This means that Fresno is a relatively unsafe city, and you may want to consider living somewhere else.
6. Hot Summers
Fresno has hot summers. The average temperature in the summer months is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and it can get even hotter. This means that if you don’t like hot weather, Fresno may not be the best place for you.
7. Poor Public Transportation
Fresno has a poor public transportation system. The city’s bus system is limited and can be unreliable. There is also no light rail system in the city, which makes it difficult to get around without a car.
8. Poor School System
Fresno has a poor school system. According to U.S. News & World Report, the city’s schools are ranked near the bottom of the list for California schools. So, if you’re looking for a good school district for your children, Fresno may not be the best choice.
9. Little Entertainment Options
Fresno has limited entertainment options. The city doesn’t have many movie theaters, theaters, or museums, and the nightlife is limited. So, if you’re looking for something to do in your spare time, Fresno may not be the best place.
10. High Poverty Rate
Fresno has a high poverty rate. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city’s poverty rate is 24.2%, which is higher than the national average of 11.8%. This means that there is a significant number of people living in poverty in Fresno.
11. Poor Healthcare System
Fresno has a poor healthcare system. According to the California Health Care Foundation, the city’s hospitals are ranked near the bottom for the state. So, if you’re looking for good healthcare, Fresno may not be the best choice.
12. Lack of Cultural Diversity
Fresno has a lack of cultural diversity. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city’s population is 44.4% Hispanic or Latino, and only 8.2% of the population is Asian. So, if you’re looking for a diverse city, Fresno may not be the best choice.
13. High Cost of Housing
Fresno has a high cost of housing. According to Zillow, the median home value in Fresno is $240,000, which is higher than the national average of $184,700. This means that housing in Fresno is relatively expensive, and you may not be able to afford it.
14. Poor Quality of Life
Fresno has a poor quality of life. According to Niche, the city has a grade of C+ for quality of life, which is lower than the national average of B-. This means that the city’s quality of life is not very good, and you may want to consider living somewhere else.
15. Poor Public Parks
Fresno has poor public parks. According to Trip Advisor, the city’s parks are rated an average of 3.5 stars, which is lower than the national average of 4 stars. This means that the city’s parks are not very good, and you may not be able to find a nice park to enjoy.
16. Lack of Shopping Options
Fresno has a limited number of shopping options. The city doesn’t have many malls or shopping centers, and the selection of stores is limited. So, if you’re looking for a place to shop, Fresno may not be the best choice.
17. High Taxes
Fresno has high taxes. According to the Tax Foundation, the city has a combined state and local sales tax rate of 8.475%, which is higher than the national average of 7.25%. This means that you will be paying more in taxes if you live in Fresno.
18. Poor Job Market
Fresno has a poor job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the city’s unemployment rate is 8.3%, which is higher than the national average of 3.7%. This means that there are fewer job opportunities in Fresno, and you may have difficulty finding a job.
19. Poor Weather
Fresno has poor weather. The city is known for its hot summers and mild winters. This means that if you don’t like hot weather, or prefer cold weather, Fresno may not be the best place for you.
Overall, there are a lot of reasons why you may not want to move to Fresno, California. From the high cost of living to the poor job market and lack of entertainment options, there are many reasons why you may want to consider living somewhere else.