10 Riskiest States Where Car Theft Rates Will Make You Double-Check Your Locks
It’s a nightmare when you drive out only to find your vehicle is not where you last parked, or when you make the unfortunate mistake of leaving your bags in sight and getting your windows smashed. You’re not alone, as car theft has become a major issue across the country.
I’ve been lucky not to have had my car swiped entirely, but I’ve still had a couple of close calls. My catalytic converter has been stolen not once but twice, and I’ve had to replace my side view mirror more than a couple of times.
Unfortunately, car theft and thieving from cars are common crimes in America, which have only been made worse after the pandemic. Some states have it worse than others, and here are the top 10 most dangerous carjacking statistics by state in America.
Methodology
Vehicle theft and population data were obtained from the latest data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Crime Data Explorer (NICB). The most recent complete year’s data is from 2023.
1. Washington DC
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 1149.71
The nation’s capital sees its fair share of vehicle theft, with numbers that raise eyebrows for such a small area. In Washington, D.C., car thieves target both tourist-heavy areas and residential neighborhoods.
Car theft rates have increased by over 60% compared to 2022, making this area the riskiest in the country. Although security measures are present, the district’s compact size means cars are always within easy reach for criminals. Public transit might be the safer bet if you’re visiting for a short stay.
2. Colorado
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 583.25
It’s clear that the state’s scenic views haven’t scared off the thieves, as Colorado tops the charts as the state with the largest car theft rate. While locals and visitors soak up the beauty of the Rockies, car thieves seem to have made a sport out of targeting vehicles across cities like Denver and Aurora.
Law enforcement is well aware and has been ramping up security measures, and it shows as there’s been a decrease from the 2022 highs. However, outdoor enthusiasts and city-dwellers alike are still advised to be vigilant and keep valuables out of sight.
3. Nevada
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 572.70
In Nevada, casinos aren’t the only places where luck runs out. After a long night out, the last thing you want is your rental car vanishing from parking lots. The greater Las Vegas area leads the way, but Reno isn’t far behind when it comes to high car theft rates. The state’s vast deserts might make it easy for criminals to disappear quickly.
Tourists who come for the lights and glamour are usually fine on the strip, but they encounter more trouble in the neighboring neighborhoods of North Las Vegas and Henderson. If you’re visiting, double-check that your car is locked up tight before heading to the slots.
4. Washington
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 554.44
Washington state’s car theft rate is nearly as high as its rainfall, with Seattle and Tacoma bearing the brunt of it. Tacoma actually had the highest car theft rate in the country, with 2,694 incidents per 100,000 people in 2022.
It’s not just major cities that should be wary; even smaller towns like Spokane and Vancouver have reported an increase.
The combination of population density and easy access to major roadways and waterways only makes it easier for car thieves to operate.
5. California
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 534.49
California’s car theft numbers are as high as its sunny days, and cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego are the hardest hit, especially after the pandemic.
With so many people coming and going, thieves have a field day in both busy and secluded areas. I literally got my catalytic converter stolen behind a gated driveway near USC!
In San Francisco, many are even leaving their locks unlocked to save on necessary repairs from break-ins.
6. New Mexico
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 489.67
New Mexico’s wide-open spaces and desert cities may be beautiful, but Albuquerque tops the list for most car theft incidents and other crimes. The city’s central location and easy freeway access make it a prime target for car thieves who can get in and out fast.
7. Missouri
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 441.61
Missouri’s car theft rates are high, particularly in urban centers like St. Louis and Kansas City.
St. Louis is already considered one of the most dangerous cities in the country. The neighborhoods here are very mixed, where one block of abandoned, rundown buildings gives way to a gentrified street with eclectic restaurants. Urban decay and poverty can be factors driving car theft.
8. Maryland
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 427.99
Maryland’s car theft rates are on the rise, especially in urban hubs like Baltimore, rising more than 70% from the year prior.
Despite efforts by local authorities to combat the trend, the problem persists, making vehicle security a growing concern for residents and visitors alike. While suburban areas see fewer incidents, city parking lots and even residential neighborhoods have been hotspots.
9. Oregon
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 394.14
In Oregon, car theft rates are nearly as high as the mountains surrounding it, with Portland leading in reported incidents. The city attracts people with its weirdness and natural beauty, and although the thieving is still a problem, it has decreased by around 30% year over year.
If you’re exploring Oregon, keep a close eye on where and how you park. Cover up all your valuables with a trunk cover.
10. Texas
Vehicle Theft per 100k People: 383.00
Texas might be known for its size, but it also has a growing issue with car theft, especially in places like Houston and Dallas. The state’s sprawling layout and proximity to the border make it easy for thieves to move stolen cars across state lines. Even in smaller towns, incidents are on the rise.
It’s a big reminder that not even cowboys can tame car thieves. Keep your ride safe by parking in well-lit areas and investing in anti-theft devices.
Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.
| MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES |
✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures. |