Georgia, like many other communities across the country, is becoming increasingly concerned about safety. In 2024, certain cities in the Peach State will have substantial crime difficulties, distinguishing them as some of the most dangerous places to live.
This article investigates the five Georgia cities where inhabitants face the most risks, based on recent crime statistics and trends. From violent offenses to property crimes, we examine the reasons that contribute to these cities’ high crime rates and provide a detailed look at the safety challenges affecting their residents.
Understanding the safety picture in these regions allows existing and potential residents to better navigate dangers and strive toward enhanced safety measures.
| Rank | City | Population | Violent Crimes | Property Crimes | Total Crimes |
Chances of Becoming a Victim
|
| 5 | Douglasville | 37,948 | 239 | 1,835 | 2,074 | 1 in 159 |
| 4 | Rome | 37,913 | 376 | 1,776 | 2,152 | 1 in 101 |
| 3 | Milledgeville | 16,837 | 146 | 811 | 957 | 1 in 115 |
| 2 | Forest Park | 19,400 | 177 | 947 | 1,124 | 1 in 110 |
| 1 | College Park | 13,914 | 218 | 1,005 | 1,223 | 1 in 64 |
1. Milledgeville
Milledgeville, which is dealing with a deeply ingrained economic crisis, offers dismal crime statistics that highlight the gravity of its problems. It is the third-most hazardous city in the state.
According to CityData, Milledgeville has one of the highest poverty rates in the region at 39.9%, as well as a violent crime rate of 8.67 per 1,000 population and an overall crime rate of 56.84 per 1,000.
Burlington Park and Milledgeville Southeast are particularly affected due to high crime rates, which are compounded by the current economic downturn.
The formation of groups such as neighborhood watch was an imperative necessity in this section of the state.
2. Douglasville
Douglasville is one of the most hazardous cities in Georgia. With a population of 35,252, the violent crime rate is 6.30 per 1,000, while the total crime rate is 54.65 per 1,000. These high crime rates disproportionately affect Douglasville neighborhoods such as Willows North and Burton Mill.
Historical and economic issues play a significant role in this issue, as many communities have experienced long-term neglect and economic collapse, resulting in poor living conditions and restricted employment possibilities.
Addressing Douglasville’s crime concerns, particularly in neighborhoods such as Willows North and Burton Mill, necessitates a direct approach to historical and economic issues.
3. Rome
Rome’s historical significance contrasts with its contemporary crime statistics, which are 9.92 violent crimes per 1,000 population.
Shannon and Wax are particularly known for their high crime rates. Robberies have been extremely widespread in recent years. Economic stagnation has had a significant impact on these communities, often leading to a rise in crime.
Economic stagnation can be caused by a multitude of factors, including a lack of job opportunities, a lack of investment in the area, and inadequate infrastructure, all of which contribute to a crime-friendly atmosphere.
Targeted actions are required to address the problems in these high-crime neighborhoods.
4. Forest Park
Forest Park has a low median income of approximately $41,000 and an 18% poverty rate. There are 9.12 violent crimes per 1,000 persons and a total crime rate of 57.94 per 1,000.
High crime rates are particularly prevalent in Forest Park’s Downtown and Mountain View Plaza, which can be ascribed in large part to the economic issues these districts confront. 
According to a Georgian DCA study from 2018, one in every three households had an income below the poverty level. Things have improved somewhat recently.
These places have low median incomes and high poverty rates, which unavoidably drive a wide range of criminal behaviors, from simple thefts to more aggressive violent actions.
Simultaneously, there is an urgent need to strengthen the local educational systems and community services.
Programs that emphasize skill development, financial literacy, and vocational training can empower residents and offer alternatives to criminal activity.
Health and social services can also play an important role in assisting struggling families and at-risk adolescents, minimizing the despair that frequently leads to criminal activity.
5. College Park
College Park has a terrible socioeconomic landscape marked by high poverty and significant income inequality. The combination of these elements puts it at the top of Georgia’s most hazardous cities list.
According to NeighborhoodScout, these characteristics contribute to a significantly high violent crime rate of 15.67 per 1000 residents and an even more concerning total crime rate of 87.90 per 1000.
Neighborhoods like Jamestown Court and College Park South are notorious for their high crime rates.
These communities are frequently the hardest hit by economic downturns, with few job possibilities, limited educational resources, and inadequate community services.
Recently, there was an issue with a lithium battery plant that the people refused to allow.
Such conditions create a climate conducive to crime, ranging from little thefts to significant violent offenses.
Economic development measures must prioritize job creation, maybe by recruiting new enterprises with tax breaks and promoting local entrepreneurship with grants and training programs.
For all of these reasons, it is among Georgia’s worst places to live.
Summary
To summarize, Georgia’s most hazardous cities suffer a combination of high crime rates and significant socioeconomic issues. Economic hardship and a lack of community services all contribute to an increase in crime. Addressing these issues requires targeted interventions in job development, education, and community assistance to improve safety and living circumstances.