According to a new research by the job website Zippia, Michigan—which is well-known for its Great Lakes, Faygo, and famous Coney Dogs—finds itself in an unexpected position as one of the top 10 most loathed states in the US. Though many Michiganders take great pride in their state’s abundant natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, it seems that not everyone feels the same way.
Three primary considerations were made in Zippia’s study:
1. According to Gallup polls, the proportion of citizens who believe their state is the worst place to live.
2. Population trends, with an emphasis on states where there have been notable declines.
3. Perceptions across the country, measuring the proportion of states that are against a specific state.
The study’s assessment of Michigan produced some unsettling results. Securing the 7th spot among the most despised states, Michigan saw a minor reduction in population of -0.09% and 9% of its citizens thinking it the worst place to live.
It’s interesting to note that the study revealed that a large portion of the contempt against Michigan comes from within the state. Though the report didn’t say which state despises Michigan the most, rumors suggest that it’s neighboring Ohio.
Likewise, Ohio came under fire and ended up ranking as the nation’s 12th least popular state. This implies that the general hatred of some regimes is greatly influenced by internal perceptions and regional rivalry.
Remarkably, Illinois emerged as the most despised state, as its population shrank by -0.54%, and a startling 25% of citizens thought it was the worst place to live.
On the other hand, the least despised states were Colorado, Utah, and Montana, demonstrating the wide range of sentiments across the country.
The study’s inclusion of Michigan may come as a surprise to some, but it highlights the complex dynamics of public opinion and local rivalry.
As long as Michiganders enjoy what their state has to offer, changing the fundamental causes of its bad reputation may lead to a more favorable view both inside and outside of the state.