The best states work to keep businesses in population centers, rather than promote sprawling new developments that gobble up open space and encourage flight from our cities. Soon, unemployment, lowered property values and fewer investment opportunities add up to a city that has lost its livability. The states that rate low in this category are failing to invest in their existing communities. Most often, they rely on the standard style cookie-cutter suburban development. Residents must depend on cars for all their trips.
Traffic congestion is the norm.
Sadly, a sense of community is often lacking. Vermont Vermont is well-known for its vibrant towns and charming atmosphere. In some cases, citizen outrage has kept the stores away entirely.