12 Crime-Heavy US Cities Where Travelers Need to Proceed With Caution

When planning your next adventure, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of exploring new places. While you might dream of soaking up the sun on a beach or walking back after a fun night out, some US cities come with a bit of a warning label.

Having lived in St. Louis for years (which is high on this list) and journeyed through 65 countries to compare the United States to, I’ve seen some sketchy happenings. But don’t let this list deter you completely from visiting; just steer clear of the not-so-friendly spots.

Based on FBI statistics and SafeHome’s research, we’ll shine a light on 12 most dangerous US cities with surprisingly high crime rates.

1. Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore, Maryland, crabs may be delicious, but the crime rates are… well, alarming. Ironically, it was nicknamed “Charm City” to boost its reputation. But don’t let it fool you; this city consistently tops the charts for some of the highest violent crime rates in the nation and even the world. If you remember, “The Wire” was set in this very city.

Baltimore recently snagged the title for the highest per-capita murder and robbery rates in the nation, according to SafeHome. Despite efforts to curb violence, the city’s residents are still grappling with its stubborn crime problem. The homicide rate might be dropping, but the high rates of robbery keep the fear alive.

2. Detroit, Michigan

Detroit is legendary for its automotive history, but it’s also cruising high on crime charts. Although it lost the dubious title of deadliest city to Baltimore, Detroit remains a runner-up with one of the highest homicide rates in the country.

Detroit’s gritty reputation has seen a slight decrease in violent crimes recently. Still, with the sky-high statistics for aggravated assaults, you’ll want to stay on your toes.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

I’ll be the first one to defend New Orleans as a must-visit city in the USA, but it doesn’t mean it’s without its problems. The jazz may be smooth, and Mardi Gras may be the most legendary cultural festival in the US, but this city has one of the highest per-capita violent crime rates in the country.

After Hurricane Katrina devastated the city, there was an influx of crime that continues today. So, while you may want to party it up in the Big Easy, stay vigilant and stick to touristy areas.

4. St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis, the Gateway to the West, or is it the gateway to sky-high crime? I actually lived here for four years during college, and while I lived through the Michael Brown riots, I found that if you know which places to steer clear of, you’ll be fine.

Just a heads up: you definitely want to avoid East St. Louis, even though it’s technically in Illinois.

While there are areas like The Hill (where toasted ravioli was invented!) and Forest Park, this city has a notorious reputation for its high crime rates.

In fact, the homicide rate in St. Louis is consistently one of the highest in the nation, earning it the title of “murder capital” multiple times. However, the city has made efforts to improve its image and has seen a decrease in violent crime in recent years.

5. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis might be Elvis Presley’s home, but it’s also a hotspot for crime. Known for its music and barbecue, this Tennessee city sadly tops the charts for aggravated assault.

Enjoy the blues, but don’t get caught up in them. Vehicle thefts and other property crimes are also rampant here, making it another city where you need to watch where you park.

Despite this warning, the locals are friendly, and it’s a great place to experience southern hospitality.

6. San Francisco, California

San Francisco: land of fog, tech giants, and a booming property crime scene. Leading the nation in robbery, San Francisco has become a hotspot for theft without violence. The iconic tourist spots make unwary travelers and their rental cars filled with luggage easy prey.

Ever since the pandemic, we’ve all seen those videos of trunks left open to stop people from breaking windows in parked cars. You may not have to go that far, but you definitely don’t want to leave anything visible in your car.

7. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is known for its coffee, tech, and… burglary rates? Yep, the Emerald City tops the charts for break-ins.

Despite police efforts, property crime is Seattle’s not-so-secret shame. The high cost of living and an underfunded police force contribute to the constant worry. Enjoy the sights like Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, but maybe do a double-take before leaving anything valuable unattended.

8. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City is home to lickin’ finger barbecue and eyebrow-raising crime rates. Motor vehicle theft and larceny have been climbing the charts recently, and the local authorities have their hands full trying to rein in these issues. Enjoy that brisket, but keep an eye on your stuff.

9. Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, once the heart of American manufacturing, has struggled with economic downturns that seem to fuel its crime stats. Cleveland found itself among the worst cities for robbery in recent years. Violent crime may have decreased slightly, but property crime rates remain a sore point.

10. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Breaking Bad fans may recognize this city as Walter White’s infamous drug-making territory. While the TV show might be fiction, Albuquerque’s reputation for high crime rates is not. It is consistently on the map for its high crime rates.

Even while visiting the city, multiple locals told me to be wary and not talk to anyone sketchy. The city struggles particularly with property crime, and motor vehicle theft and larceny statistics are both high.

The beautiful desert landscapes can be deceiving, hiding a thorny issue underneath.

11. Oakland, California

Oakland is often overshadowed by its neighbor, San Francisco, but just across the bridge, it leads in some troubling statistics of its own. Known for its diverse culture, Oakland also grapples with high rates of robbery and motor vehicle theft.

The city’s crime issues are nothing new, but in recent years, spikes have kept residents and visitors on edge. Economic challenges and social issues add fuel to the fire.

12. Portland, Oregon

Portland’s hipster charm and eco-friendly vibe are marred by its crime stats. This seems to also be more of a problem in the past few years. Car thefts are rampant, and property crime rates have been on the rise, although violent crimes remain relatively low. The combination of high housing costs and understaffed police forces doesn’t help.

Despite these issues, Portland remains a popular destination for its artisanal donuts and a culture that’s keeping it weird.

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