The “Worst” City In Iowa Is a Scary and Sad Sight to See (Video)

A recently posted Youtube video shows one Iowa river town as a dystopian nightmare. A decrepit infrastructure and everything in town appears to be pretty sad for this southeastern Iowa city.

According to the video, everything about Keokuk, Iowa, is depressing. Primarily due to high crime rates, and few jobs, it leads to a crumbling city with a less-than-bleak future. However, using the word "bleak" actually demonstrates a sense of optimism where little exists, according to the online video.

Youtuber Nick Johnson consults with people to help them find an ideal location to move, work, and enjoy life. It's unclear how many have followed his advice, but he has amassed over 680k subscribers, so he's doing something right. Plus, his videos are excellent and informative.

"Wow! Even Iowa has BAD places to live. I've been to some messed up midwest places before. Still, I don't know if I've seen a place as uniquely rundown as Keokuk, Iowa,"  - Nick Johnson

Johnson has produced dozens of videos covering various topics from coast to coast. The videos are well-made and exceptionally informative. Unfortunately, Keokuk won't get a recommendation from Johnson anytime soon based on his online commentary and knowlege of places to live.

Although I've not been to Keokuk in years, it's hard to quible with Johson's observations and commentary about that specific city. My only issue was when he suggested that all Iowa river towns are run down and depressed like Keokuk.

Nothing could be further from the truth! Also, comparing Dubuque to East Saint Louis is far from accurate and a mischaracterization of the high quality of life in the Tri-States with vibrant small towns and strong economy.

I'd submit that Dubuque and the Tri-State area is as livable a region as anywhere in America. So it'd be great for Johnson to visit and do a video on the great things happening here.

However, Johnson's observations on the challenges confronting rural communities like Keokuk are not to be dismissed. Too many places like this Iowa town have been gutted and left in the dust by the global economy and lack of vision by political leaders, whether locally, in Des Moines, or Washington, DC. So for raising awareness Johnson deserves credit.

Nonetheless, Johnson's detailed video shows Keokuk, Iowa, as a lost cause, and it's sad to see any Iowa community crumble and flounder. Especially one with a vibrant history like Keokuk, which was once a prosperous Mississippi River town.

Visit Nick Johnson's Youtube Channal to learn more about Keokuk and other interesting places and topics.

Watch: KEOKUK, IOWA video tour video by Nick Johnson