Is Baltimore America’s Dirtiest City?

Charm City is inching closer to becoming America’s dirtiest metropolitan area.

An annual survey conducted by Travel and Leisure ranked Baltimore as the nation’s third dirtiest city; up three spots from No. 6 in last year’s survey.

The magazine’s annual America’s Favorite Cities survey ranks 35 metropolitan areas based on culture, dining and shopping — not to mention cleanliness. Baltimore received low marks due to a reported onslaught of rats over the last year. Only New Orleans and New York ranked higher on the dirt list at No. 2 and No. 1 respectively. 

Still, readers shouldn't think too poorly of Baltimore. Travel and Leisure gave it high marks on its classical music and quirky residents.

Do you think Baltimore earned its rank among the nation's dirtiest? Let us know in the comment section.