Anderson, IN, United States

Capital City

Anderson is a struggling Rust Belt city that has yet to recover from the loss of its major employers. The median household income is just $33,574, well below the state average, and a quarter of the population lives in poverty. While the city has a rich history and some cultural attractions, the loss of natural gas reserves and deindustrialization have left it with high unemployment and a shrinking population. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the local government consisting of a mayor and a sprawling 9-member city council. This Midwestern town may appeal to those seeking an affordable cost of living, but its economic challenges and lack of opportunity make it a risky choice for most.