Why Residents Are Urgently Leaving These 7 Tennessee Towns!

Tennessee offers many attractions and advantages, including low taxes, breathtaking scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and the perk of free college tuition. However, not all towns in the state are equally enticing for its residents. Some towns are grappling with declining population, alarming crime rates, inadequate infrastructure, and limited opportunities. Let’s look at seven Tennessee towns that have witnessed an exodus of residents seeking greener pastures.

7 Tennessee Towns People Are Fleeing As Soon As Possible

The table below summarizes the data for the seven Tennessee towns you mentioned:

1. Whiteville

Whiteville, a town located in Hardeman County, had a population of 3,148 in 2020. Unfortunately, it faces several challenges including a high poverty rate of 35.6% and a disturbingly high violent crime rate of 1,177 per 100,000 people. Moreover, the town struggles with limited economic development and educational attainment. Merely 10.9% of its residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the median household income stands at $25,833. Moreover, Whiteville has been experiencing a decline in population since 2000, when it boasted 4,638 residents.

2. Cumberland Gap

Cumberland Gap, a quaint town in Claiborne County, was home to a population of 476 individuals in 2020. Nestled near the renowned Cumberland Gap, a remarkable passage through the majestic Appalachian Mountains, this town holds historical significance as a route once frequented by pioneers and settlers. However, despite its rich heritage, Cumberland Gap struggles to provide its residents with modern amenities and promising opportunities. With a median household income of merely $28,750 and a staggering poverty rate of 30.5%, the town faces economic challenges. Furthermore, with a low population density of 97 people per square mile, Cumberland Gap remains secluded and isolated from bustling urban life.

3. Orme

Orme, a town in Marion County, experienced a decline in population, with only 115 residents in 2020. It is considered one of the smallest and most dwindling towns in Tennessee. Since 2000, Orme has witnessed a significant decrease in population, dropping from 242 residents. The town faces water scarcity issues, which led to the implementation of water rationing for several hours a day in the past. Furthermore, Orme has a relatively low median household income of $31,250 and a high poverty rate of 27.8%.

4. Viola

Viola, a town located in Warren County, Tennessee, was home to 128 residents in 2020. Like many other small towns in the area, Viola has experienced a decline in population, losing 23% of its residents since 2000 when it had 166 inhabitants. The town faces economic challenges, with a median household income of $32,500 and a high poverty rate of 26.6%. Educational attainment in Viola is also relatively low, with only 6.3% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.

5. Toone

Toone, a town located in Hardeman County, has a population of 330 as of 2020. Unfortunately, the town has been marked by a series of violence and tragic incidents in recent years. One such incident occurred in 2016 when a former employee of a local factory opened fire, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuring three others. In 2017, a devastating house fire claimed the lives of a mother and her four children. Moreover, Toone faces significant challenges, including a high poverty rate of 25.8% and a relatively low median household income of $34,375.

6. Cottage Grove

Cottage Grove, located in Henry County, Tennessee, has a population of 85 as of 2020. It holds the title for being the smallest town in the state and is unfortunately experiencing a significant decline in population. Since 2000, the town has witnessed a staggering 37% decrease in residents, dropping from 135 to its current count. The town’s economic landscape reflects its size and struggles, with a relatively low median household income of $36,250 and a concerning poverty rate of 25%. Moreover, Cottage Grove’s population density is relatively low, with only 42 individuals per square mile, highlighting its rural and sparsely populated nature.

7. Rives

Rives, located in Obion County, is a small town that witnessed a decline in population over the years. In 1990, it was home to 436 residents, but by 2020, the population had dropped to 287. The town faces economic challenges with a low median household income of $37,500 and a high poverty rate of 24.4%. In terms of education, Rives has a relatively low level of educational attainment, with only 8.8% of its residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the trend of people fleeing certain towns in Tennessee is a complex issue with far-reaching implications. The combination of economic decline, lack of job opportunities, and social challenges has led to a significant out-migration from these areas. While it is clear that residents are seeking better prospects and improved quality of life elsewhere, it is important to acknowledge the impact this exodus has on the communities themselves.

It is crucial for local governments and organizations to address the root causes behind this phenomenon and work towards revitalizing these towns. By investing in infrastructure, creating employment opportunities, and fostering community development, we can strive to reverse this trend and create sustainable, thriving communities for current and future residents.

Additional Resources

• “Rural Exodus in Tennessee” by the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service: https://ag.tennessee.edu/
• “Tennessee’s Shrinking Rural Towns” by the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development: https://www.tn.gov/rural.html

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