When we coined the Steelyard Walmart the “Worst Walmart in America” back in 2015, we did so based on anecdotal evidence, firsthand experiences and vibes. It was a largely unscientific designation, though it was an opinion that was widely shared around town. The store even got the mockumentary treatment two years later in 2017.
Have things changed?
A little, but only the tiniest amount, and there’s data and analytics to back up the claim now.
The Steelyard Walmart is actually the tenth worst grocery store location in the entire country, according to a new study of 3,000 grocery stores across 100 cities. The upside: It’s actually the third worst Walmart location, getting beaten out for the dubious ranking by Walmart spots in St. Paul, Minnesota, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
But still, not great news.
Google reviews, which is what was used to measure and rank stores in the study, are not kind to the Steelyard Walmart, with common complaints of long lines, long waits for pickups, bad customer service, disorganized shelves and aisles, and understaffing.
A bright spot for Cleveland? The same study found that the West Side Market is the sixth best grocery store in the country, with glowing raves dominating its more than 16,000 Google reviews.
The Steelyard may only be a few miles from Ohio City, but it appears they are worlds apart.
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This article appears in Apr 24 – May 7, 2025.