Many Americans prioritize safety, and knowing which states have higher crime rates can help them make informed decisions about where to live, work, and vacation. This ranking of the fifteen most hazardous states in the United States is based on crime statistics, which include both violent crimes such as murder, assault, and robbery, as well as property offenses. By researching these states, we may get insight into the variables that contribute to greater crime rates, as well as identify locations where residents and visitors should exercise caution. Here are the 15 states with noticeably higher crime rates.
1. Alaska
Alaska has the highest combined violent and property crime rate in the United States. Alaska, with a population of 736,081, had a crime rate of 32.14 per 1,000 inhabitants in 2022. Aggravated assault and sexual assault are very common, with 4,222 and over 1,132 instances reported, respectively.
2. New Mexico
New Mexico routinely has one of the highest rates of violent crime. In 2021, the state recorded over 12,000 violent assaults and over 2,000 robberies. Property crime is also widespread, especially in Albuquerque, Gallup, and Farmington.
3. Tennessee
Tennessee, which has a population of approximately 6.9 million, reported more than 221,000 crime events in 2021. Property crimes like as burglary and theft are common, particularly in places like Memphis and Nashville.
4. Arkansas
In 2020, the violent crime rate in Arkansas, which has a population of 3,013,756, was 672.7 per 100,000. Property crime is also high, with approximately 24,000 burglaries and vehicle thefts reported in 2021, primarily in West Memphis, Little Rock, and Helena.
5. Arizona
Between 2020 and 2021, Arizona experienced an 8.6% increase in violent crime, with 32,201 robberies and assaults reported. Cities like Tempe and Phoenix have greater crime rates than safer ones like Scottsdale.
6. Louisiana
Louisiana scores high in both violent and property crime, with New Orleans’ crime rate 150% higher than the national average in 2022. Property crimes like as burglary and theft are also major issues statewide.
7. Missouri
Missouri recorded 723 murders in 2020, or 11.8 per 100,000 people. Cities like St. Louis have a crime rate that is 234% greater than the national average, making it one of the most hazardous areas in the state.
8. South Carolina
South Carolina has a crime rate of 5.4 per thousand people. In 2020, the state reported approximately 22,000 robberies and 549 homicides, which were much more than the national average.
9. South Dakota
In 2023, South Dakota’s violent crime rate was 501 per 100,000 inhabitants. The state also has the second-highest rate of DUI arrests and a significant number of connected fatalities.
10. Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s violent crime rate has remained high despite a 4.2% decline. Oklahoma City and Tulsa have notably high rates, with Tulsa’s violent crime rate 151% greater than the national average.
11. Michigan
Michigan had almost 40,000 violent crime events in 2023. Cities with notably high rates include Detroit, Kalamazoo, and Saginaw, with Detroit reporting 14,509 violent offenses in 2021.
12. Colorado
Colorado’s violent crime rate was 586.2 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023. Crime rates in Denver and Aurora are more than 180% higher than the national average, which contributes to the state’s high position.
13. Nevada
Nevada’s overall crime rate is 2,731 per 100,000 inhabitants. The violent crime rates in Las Vegas and Reno are more than 40% higher than the national average, making Nevada one of the most hazardous states.
14. Montana
Montana’s violent crime rate is 469.8 per 100,000 inhabitants. Cities like Billings and Missoula have much higher rates of violent and property crime.
15. Washington
In 2023, Washington’s violent crime rate grew to 376 per 100,000 inhabitants. Seattle, Tacoma, Fife, and Tukwila have violent crime rates that are more than 100 percent higher than the national average.
Final Words
Understanding crime statistics and the variables that contribute to high crime rates in these 15 states allows Americans to make more informed decisions about where to live, work, and travel. Awareness and vigilance are essential for personal safety in these areas. Stay aware and diligent in order to successfully manage and reduce risks.