Navigating the terrain of urban living can be both exciting and fraught with challenges. While every city has unique charm and character, some places are better known for their high crime rates and safety concerns.
If you’re considering a move or just curious about urban safety, this guide sheds light on the most dangerous cities in the US. It’s based on FBI Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) statistics and U.S. Census estimates.
Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is one of the most dangerous cities in the U.S., characterized by its high murder rate. This can be mainly attributed to the widely publicized crime rates and murders within the less populated city rather than, the more densely populated county or the combined city and county.
Birmingham, Alabama
A recent report has identified Birmingham as one of the most dangerous cities in a national ranking.
In 2022, Birmingham’s crime per capita cost $11,392. Crime has significantly impacted residents and communities in the Southeastern region.
Baltimore, Maryland
MoneyGeek ranked Baltimore as the sixth most dangerous city in the United States out of 302 cities with populations exceeding 100,000 residents.
It is important to note that a significant portion of Baltimore’s criminal activity is concentrated in particular impoverished areas plagued by drugs and gang violence rather than being pervasive throughout the entire city.
Memphis, Tennessee
Another one of the cities deemed most hazardous in the United States is Memphis, Tennessee. Boasting a population of 628,127, Memphis exhibits an overall crime rate that surpasses the national average by 317%. The city records 9,764 crimes per 100,000 individuals, with a notably elevated rate of violent crimes.
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit’s crime rates surpass those of many Midwest cities and consistently rank high nationwide due to its large size.
At its peak, Detroit had a population of two million residents, which has reduced to slightly over 603,400 as of 2024.
Cleveland, Ohio
The metropolitan area exhibited a higher violent crime rate than the national average in 2022, along with a property crime rate exceeding the national average.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Compared to the national average, New Orleans ranks higher in most crime statistics, particularly concerning violent crime rates.
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The city’s vibrant culture and historical significance juxtapose its challenges with crime, reflecting the complex interplay of factors contributing to the local crime landscape.
Shreveport, Louisiana
The metropolitan area exhibited a higher violent crime rate compared to the national average in 2022, alongside a property crime rate exceeding the national norm.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge recorded 2,386 violent crimes and 9,887 property crimes in 2021, translating to approximately 54 crimes per 1,000 residents.
The national average is around 23 crimes per 1,000, with Louisiana’s statewide average at 34.
Little Rock, Arkansas
A recent study identified Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Pine Bluff as some of the most dangerous cities and towns in the United States.
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The FBI reported that although violent crime has decreased to levels seen before the pandemic, the changes were not uniform nationwide.
Oakland, California
While crime rates have risen across all regions of Oakland in the past five years, the district comprising North Oakland and Uptown, within Police Area 2, experienced the most substantial surge in reported total crimes in 2023 compared to 2022, with a notable 28% increase.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The 2020 FBI data on violent crime, encompassing murder, r@pe, robbery, and aggravated assault, revealed that Milwaukee reported 1,597 violent crimes per 100,000 individuals, in contrast to the national average of 399 incidents per 100,000. Milwaukee’s rate exceeds the national average by 300% by this measure.
Kansas City, Missouri
The metropolitan area exhibited a violent crime rate surpassing the national average in 2022, along with a property crime rate exceeding the national statistics.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia’s crime rate is above the national average, making it one of the more perilous cities in Pennsylvania.
Nevertheless, Philadelphia’s safety profile is relatively favorable compared to other major American cities. By steering clear of its high-crime areas, one can experience a sense of security while in Philly.
Richmond, Virginia
The per capita crime rate in Richmond, Virginia, is 3,962 total crimes per 100,000 individuals.
This statistic breaks down into 463 violent crimes and 3,499 property crimes, indicating a 1 in 25 likelihood of experiencing a crime in Richmond.
Indianapolis, Indiana
The area exhibited a higher violent crime rate compared to the national average in 2022, with its property crime rate also surpassing the national levels.
Stockton, California
Stockton, CA’s overall crime rate is 4,259 crimes per 100,000 residents. This rate is 81.5% higher than the national average and 65% higher than the state average.
Particularly concerning is the high rate of violent crime at 1,277 crimes per 100,000 residents, marking a significant 229.3% increase compared to the national average.
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage is frequently cited as one of the more dangerous cities in the United States, often ranking as the second most dangerous place to reside (with Detroit, Michigan, claiming the top spot). Residents of Anchorage face a 1 in 76 likelihood of falling victim to violent crime.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
The violent crime rate in Albuquerque, NM, exceeds the state average by 72.7% and surpasses the national average by 246.6%.
Lansing, Michigan
The 2021 crime rates for Lansing, MI, indicate a 1 in 77 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 37 chance of experiencing property crime.
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