Crime casts a long shadow over countless American communities. Beyond the human toll, it exacts a substantial economic burden on victims, offenders, and society. Money Geek, a personal finance technology company, recently analyzed crime statistics based on the most recent FBI data in nearly 302 cities that have populations over 100,000 and ranked the most dangerous cities in the US. Read on to find out more.
Birmingham, AL
Crime Cost Per Capita- $11,392
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1682
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 4173
Birmingham grapples with a severe crime problem, experiencing a crime rate 151.9% higher than the national average. Violent crimes, including assault, robbery, rape, and murder, are rampant, with a rate of 1682 per 100,000 residents, a staggering 354.7% above the national average. Other crimes, like theft, burglary, and car theft, are also prevalent, with a rate of 4173 per 100,000 residents, 113.5% higher than the US average.
New Orleans, LA
Crime Cost Per Capita- $11,094
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1444
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 4641
New Orleans is notorious for its high crime rates, particularly in areas outside popular tourist destinations. With a crime rate 150% above the national average, residents face a heightened risk of becoming crime victims. The city has also earned a grim reputation for its violent crime, averaging over 150 murders annually in recent years.
St. Louis, MO
Crime Cost Per Capita- $11,055
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1472
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 7254
St. Louis, Missouri, is unfortunately notorious for its high crime rates. With a staggering violent crime rate of 1472 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 7254 per 100,000, it ranks among the most dangerous cities in the United States. The city’s residents bear a substantial financial burden, with a crime cost per capita reaching a hefty $11,055.
Detroit, MI
Crime Cost Per Capita- $9,281
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 2028
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 4478
Detroit, Michigan, is another city grappling with a serious crime problem. With a violent crime rate of 2028 per 100,000 residents, it has one of the highest rates in the nation. While the property crime rate is significant, the city’s primary challenge is controlling violent crime. Detroit residents face a significant financial burden due to the high cost of crime. Effective crime prevention strategies are crucial for improving public safety and revitalizing the city.
Memphis, TN
Crime Cost Per Capita- $9,056
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 2421
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 7166
Memphis, with a sky-high violent crime rate of 2421 per 100,000 residents, is a hotbed of violence. Factors such as poverty, drug abuse, and unemployment have contributed to this alarming situation. The presence of a substantial gang population further exacerbates the problem, with property crimes often linked to drug-related activities.
Baltimore, MD
Crime Cost Per Capita- $8160
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1553
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 3277
Baltimore’s complex crime issue is a result of interconnected problems. High incarceration rates, fueled by a persistent crime cycle, disproportionately impact the city. A significant teen pregnancy rate contributes to a struggling education system, which in turn can lead to increased crime. Overlaid on this is a severe drug epidemic, particularly heroin, which drives violence and instability.
Little Rock, AR
Crime Cost Per Capita- $7781
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1833
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 5349
Despite being the state’s largest city, Little Rock’s crime rates are notably higher than the Arkansas average. With a violent crime rate more than double the state’s and a property crime rate significantly exceeding the statewide figure, residents are at a heightened risk of victimization. This disproportionate crime burden heavily strains the city and its communities. Addressing this issue requires comprehensive strategies to reduce crime and enhance public safety.
Cleveland, OH
Crime Cost Per Capita- $7397
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1614
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 4317
Cleveland, Ohio, is notorious for its high crime rate, surpassing both state and national averages. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, and drug-related issues contribute to the city’s pervasive crime problem. With a disproportionately high murder rate and a significant chance of becoming a victim of violent crime, residents face a constant threat.
Milwaukee, WI
Crime Cost Per Capita- $7029
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1509
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 3507
Despite its vibrant culture and economic strengths, Milwaukee has significant crime challenges. Specific neighborhoods, such as North Division, Franklin Heights, Metcalfe Park, Park West (Amani), and Garden Homes, exhibit alarmingly high rates of both violent and property crime. These areas face complex issues that contribute to the overall crime problem.
Kansas City, MO
Crime Cost Per Capita- $6398
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1481
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 4715
Kansas City, Missouri, has been grappling with a significant crime problem for years. Beyond the high violent and property crime rates, some specific trends are worth noting. Kansas City consistently ranks among cities with the highest homicide rates in the nation. This persistent issue has been a focal point for community and government efforts to address crime. Gang-related crime is a significant factor in Kansas City’s crime problem. These gangs are involved in criminal activities like drug trafficking, robberies, and homicides.
Pueblo, CO
Crime Cost Per Capita- $5979
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1621
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 6390
Pueblo, Colorado, has a significant crime problem rooted in a complex interplay of factors. Gang violence, fueled by the drug trade, has historically plagued the city. Exacerbated by high poverty rates, unemployment, and a lack of economic opportunities, Pueblo faces ongoing challenges in reducing crime and improving public safety.
Oakland, CA
Crime Cost Per Capita- $5710
Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 1521
Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents) – 6475
Despite a nationwide decline in violent crime, Oakland has seen increases in robberies, burglaries, and car thefts. The city’s crime rate is notably higher than the national average, with residents facing a heightened risk of victimization. In response to this crisis, California has deployed additional law enforcement resources to combat the escalating crime wave.