Waterloo, IA, United States

Capital City

With a population of just 67,314, Waterloo is a small manufacturing hub in the heart of the Midwest - and it shows. The once-booming 'Factory City' has struggled to diversify its economy, leaving it vulnerable to the whims of agriculture and industry. While the city boasts cultural attractions like the Waterloo Center for the Arts, a persistent racial divide and high unemployment among the Black community are constant headaches. And then there's the weather - Waterloo's harsh continental climate brings bitterly cold winters and scorching summers, with nearly two feet of snow on average each year. For those seeking an affordable, blue-collar lifestyle close to nature, Waterloo may fit the bill, but the city's struggles with inequality and economic stagnation make it a poor choice for those seeking diversity and opportunity.