It’s no secret that America is facing a health crisis as obesity continues to be a growing concern across the United States. However, some cities are struggling more than others, and obesity rates aren’t evenly spread across the country. Some U.S. cities have become hotspots for rising obesity rates, thanks to poor infrastructure, limited access to nutritious food, and lower levels of physical activity. Let’s take a look at these cities that have some of the highest obesity rates in America.
McAllen, Texas
McAllen is one of America’s most obese cities, with 40% of adults being diagnosed as chronically obese. Most of its residents rely mainly on fast food options that have taken over healthier alternatives due to rising costs. Most programs have seemed ineffective, and a culture revolving around obesity has seemingly formed in the city, making it one of the easiest places to become obese.
Jackson, Mississippi
Like McAllen, Jackson has one of the highest adult obesity rates in America, constantly hovering around 40%. What sets Jackson apart is that it is positioned at the heart of the so-called “Stroke Belt,” a region that has experienced elevated rates of cardiovascular disease and strokes. Since most of the city also depends on cars to get around and there are few to no sidewalks, physical activity is more difficult. To exacerbate matters, over 22% of Jackson’s population is below the poverty line, making it exceptionally difficult for them to get their hands on nutritious, healthy foods.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis not only stands out for its 36% adult obesity rate, but also because of how its urban design directly influences its residents’ physical health. It’s regarded as one of the least walkable cities in America, with most neighborhoods having nearly no bike lanes or sidewalks. The city also ranks low in park accessibility, with only 34% of residents living within a 10-minute walk to a park. Although the Indy Hunger Network is doing a lot to help residents, 1 in 5 children in Marion County still grows up in food-insecure households.
Lubbock, Texas
Lubbock’s obesity epidemic is mostly caused by its high fast-food density, with more than 80 fast-food establishments per 100,000 residents, far above the national average. Despite Lubbock being home to Texas Tech University, which brings a younger demographic, most neighborhoods still have little to no access to recreational facilities and limited public transportation. The city is also part of the West Texas region, which is known for its comfort foods that consist of fried meats and sugary drinks.
Augusta, Georgia
Augusta is at an intersection between obesity and healthcare access, even though the Medical College of Georgia is located in the city. The adult obesity rate is around 38%, with the largest disparities being between low- and high-income communities. East and south Augusta are filled with convenience stores and fast-food outlets that serve ordinary people. Most stores with fresh produce are also quite far from the poorest regions, so people without cars struggle to get their hands on fresh, healthy produce.
Toledo, Ohio
Particularly impacted by post-industrial economic decline, Toledo has left many of its residents in poverty and reliant on low-cost, high-calorie foods. The local economy still bears the scars of manufacturing job losses, and the lack of full-service grocery stores creates large nutritional gaps. This has led to adult obesity skyrocketing to about 36% in the city, ranking Toledo in the bottom quartile for health outcomes. These systemic issues extend beyond personal behavior, as some of the contributing factors are simply out of their control.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
The obesity crisis in Tulsa is intertwined with its culture, economics, and tribal factors in a unique way. The adult obesity rate is nearly 40%, with Native American populations experiencing even higher rates due to food insecurity and limited healthcare. Nearly 17% of Tulsa’s residents have only limited access to healthy groceries, and although the city has launched a wellness program, the high poverty and underinvestment in community infrastructures make long-term results hard to come by.
Huntington, West Virginia
Huntington has been a symbol of the American obesity epidemic for a long time. It was named the most obese city in the U.S. by a CDC report in 2008, and it has an astonishing obesity rate of 45%. Recent data shows some improvements, but Huntington still struggles due to its past, the economic depression it experienced, and cultural preferences for high-calorie comfort food. Despite community gardens and improved school meals, lifestyle change remains a generational challenge.
Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock, in Arkansas, has an estimated obesity rate of 38%, which is among the highest rates in the South. Health disparities are uniquely impacted by geographical and racial divides, as neighborhoods in the southwest are heavily affected by food deserts, and areas in the east have limited access to healthcare and exercise facilities. Arkansas ranks high in childhood obesity, suggesting the issue begins early. Although healthcare campaigns aim to change this statistic, the progress has been slow.
Shreveport, Louisiana
Shreveport has some of the most astonishing health indicators in the nation, with over 40% of the population being obese and around 15% suffering from diabetes. Cultural dietary habits tend to favor fried seafood, gumbo, and sugary drinks. Additionally, the city has one of the highest food insecurity rates in Louisiana. Limited access to public transportation and fresh food markets, compounded by poverty and poor infrastructure, continues to hinder significant progress.
Mobile, Alabama
Mobile ranks pretty high for obesity in Alabama, a state known for its sedentary lifestyles and deep-fried comfort food. The city’s infrastructure doesn’t promote biking or walking, while its fast-food chains outnumber healthy restaurants. Health disparities among all groups in the city are pronounced, and even though there are efforts to expand recreational activities and provide nutritional education, Mobile is still battling mass obesity.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge has struggled with obesity for a long time now, but its rates now exceed 35%. Factors influencing these rates include low physical activity, food deserts, and a reliance on traditional calorie-dense foods. Its high poverty levels also limit access to healthcare and nutritious meal options. Local organizations have started to tackle the problem with school lunch reforms and fitness programs, but structural and cultural changes are necessary for any lasting impact.
Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis commonly appears on lists of the most obese cities in America. The city is known for its soul food and barbecue, which are delicious but tied to health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and chronic obesity. Limited walkability and economic struggles also plague the city, but new community gardens, bike trails, and public health campaigns offer a possibility for a healthier lifestyle.
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit’s obesity crisis is tied primarily to its economic history. The city has been in industrial decline for decades, leaving neighborhoods struggling to afford healthy foods. With obesity rates hovering around 38%, residents are in desperate need of lifestyle and dietary reforms. Initiatives such as neighborhood health hubs and urban farming have recently gained traction, and while they are starting to positively impact many communities, there is still a long way to go before these initiatives can fully deliver results.
Bakersfield, California
Despite Bakersfield being a highly health-conscious city, it has one of the highest obesity rates in California. Processed foods are at an all-time high, and exercise is often discouraged due to the city’s poor air quality caused by pollution. However, like other states on this list, Bakersfield has started teaching children how to eat healthy from a young age, approaching their fight as an educational issue focused on the eating habits of the youth.
