In a somewhat tongue-in-cheek ranking that has sparked heated discussion, Hermiston, a small city in Eastern Oregon, was labeled “one of the ugliest” in the nation. While such distinctions are highly subjective—and frankly, a little harsh—this tongue-in-cheek viewpoint opens a window into urban design, community identity, and the surprising appeal that resides beneath the rough exterior.
A Not-So-Grand Title
Hermiston, a city of approximately 19,000 residents located about 30 miles from the Tri-Cities region (Kennewick, Richland, Pasco), found itself atop an unflattering list in an online publication that judged cities based on aesthetics and curb appeal. Although these types of rankings carry little scientific value, they grabbed attention—and raised eyebrows—among locals.
What Does “Ugly” Even Mean?
The criteria behind Hermiston’s appearance on this list were vague. The article didn’t mention serious issues such as crime or infrastructure problems. Rather, aesthetic aspects like empty storefronts, lack of architectural unity, overuse of parking lots, and absence of tree-lined sidewalks were impliedʼ—and that can be devastating when a community prides itself on being a welcoming, family‑oriented hometown.
A Community’s Identity Under Scrutiny
Hermiston’s identity as an agricultural hub—dominated by potato, onion, and sweet corn farms—means the urban core often takes a back seat to functional, rural design. The town’s economy centers on practical needs rather than aesthetic appeal. Many residents see this ranking as a misguided jab at a hardworking, grounded community.
Finding Beauty in the Everyday
Despite its daunting label, Hermiston has hidden gems:
- Local Eateries & Family Spots: Restaurants on Yelp top lists within Hermiston, serving as gathering spots for residents and travelers alike .
- Community Events: Annual celebrations like the Melon Festival reflect the pride locals take in their agricultural roots.
- Nearby Recreation: The Columbia River and nearby parks offer scenic escapes, drawing recreation-seekers to the area.
These aspects aren’t about architectural perfection—they’re about the heart and vibrancy of local life.
Ugly or Authentic?
Rather than viewing this label as an insult, many local leaders see an opportunity:
- Reclamation of Character: Celebrating the city’s agricultural heritage and no-nonsense spirit.
- Future Design Integration: Improvement efforts could focus on pedestrian-friendly streets and community hubs with design that reflects agricultural history.
- Boosted Civic Pride: Sometimes adversity—in this case, an “ugly” label—can galvanize civic involvement and spark beautification efforts from within.
The Broader Context: A Popular Media Trend
Rankings like these are often clickbait, aiming to stir conversation. As one local critic noted: “That ‘ugly’ town just happens to be 30 minutes away from Tri‑Cities…”. That wry observation hints at the subjective—and sometimes unhelpful—nature of these lists.
Moving Past Headlines
Debates like this often reveal deeper truth: outward aesthetics rarely define a community’s worth. Hermiston’s value lies in its people: families, growers, dedicated small business owners, and community leaders who make the town more than just a collection of buildings.
What’s Next for Hermiston?
Local conversation has turned to action:
- Streetscape Enhancements: Potential for more trees, pedestrian trails, and public art installations that enhance visual appeal.
- Downtown Revitalization: Emerging interest in projects to renovate storefronts and encourage more foot traffic.
- Community-Led Beautification: Grassroots efforts could transform blank walls into murals celebrating local stories and culture.
These efforts could reshape both the look and reputation of the city—on its own terms.
Broader Takeaways
Hermiston’s story teaches some important lessons:
- Media narratives shape perception—online lists may grab attention, but they don’t tell the whole story.
- Community resilience matters—pride, identity, and a sense of belonging are more consequential than superficial labeling.
- A city’s charm isn’t always planned—it grows from people’s connections and daily life, not just design.
Final Thoughts
Yes, Hermiston was pegged as “one of the ugliest” towns in America. But when you scratch beneath the surface, a different story emerges. You find community spirit, agricultural pride, local flavors, family‑centered values, and quiet determination. That’s the real beauty of Hermiston—and maybe a lesson for all of us: true appeal isn’t always obvious. It grows from the people, stories, and shared connections that fill a place with life—long after trendy lists have moved on.