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With 50 unique states across this vast country, it’s no surprise some garner more animosity than others. Factors like boisterous residents, questionable politics, insufferable weather, and zealous sports fans can breed resentment toward certain states. Here’s what an online opinion poll revealed.
1. Texas
The Lone Star State is high on the most-hated list for multiple reasons. Some perceive Texans as aggressive and “larger than life.” The climate also earns ire, with scorching summers and droughts few want to endure.
Politically, critics characterize Texas as rebellious and regressive. Fans approach sports like high school football with an almost religious devotion. This cocktail of factors earns Texas widespread scorn beyond its borders.
2. California
Though home to beautiful scenery, California irritates many Americans.
Between Silicon Valley’s nonstop hustle and Hollywood’s glitzy facade, California epitomizes “keeping up with the Joneses” for some.
With stratospheric housing costs and nightmarish traffic, the Golden State feels more gilded than golden to its detractors. And don’t get them started on avocado toast and kombucha.
3. New Jersey
Few states earn more universal contempt from their own residents than New Jersey.
Between environmental pollution, political corruption, and some of America’s rudest drivers, New Jersey residents have plenty to complain about.
Outsiders also scoff at the New Jersey accent and direct communication style, which many consider aggressive and obnoxious. But hey, at least they have good pizza and diners.
4. Florida
Florida boasts tourism-friendly weather and beaches yet remains surprisingly unpopular.
Some blame the odd headlines that emerge from the Sunshine State, which lead to “Florida Man” memes. Others criticize exploitative politicians and a large retired population stubbornly clinging to outdated ideals. And then there are the hurricanes.
Between the oppressive heat, swirling storms, and questionable culture, many Americans prefer Florida to remain the butt of jokes.
5. Alabama
College football fandom approaches religious fervor in Alabama, which can test outsiders’ patience. Crimson Tide fanaticism leaks into everyday culture with Roll Tide battle cries and houndstooth wardrobe choices.
Some also consider Alabama stubbornly regressive, clinging to outdated policies and social attitudes. On the other hand, the storied barbecue tradition found there is pretty tough to hate.
6. Kentucky
Best known for horse racing and bourbon, Kentucky irritates many Americans.
Some deride Kentuckians as self-righteous “good ol’ boys” resistant to progress, and with an economy centered around cigarettes, coal, and casinos, the state has some of America’s poorest health outcomes.
Outsiders also balk at Kentucky’s conservative politics and fundamentalist Christianity. But the fried chicken remains delicious.
7. Michigan
The decaying industrial hub of Detroit drags down Michigan’s reputation. Urban blight, high crime, and failing city services characterize parts of Detroit.
Many outsiders paint the entire state with the same brush. Michigan also earns scorn for its intense lake effect winters and fanatical allegiance to sports teams like the Lions and Wolverines.
Many Americans consider Michigan a cold, dying relic of America’s manufacturing past. But hey, at least they have cherries!
All in All
Perceptions about hated states come from multiple fronts: abrasive residents, insufferable weather, corrupt politicians, and even sports obsession.
Regional cultural differences stoke resentment between states. But often, these perceptions simply reveal prejudices, not reality.
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