Crime is still a major concern in many parts of the United States, and while some cities are safe and thriving, others continue to struggle with violence, theft, and gang activity. This guide breaks down the most dangerous cities in the US for 2025, based on the latest FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) statistics and recent local law enforcement data.
Whether you’re moving, traveling, or just curious, this list gives a full view of where crime rates remain highest.
Most Dangerous Cities in the US (By Violent Crime Rate – 2025)
| City | State | Violent Crime Rate (Per 100k) |
|---|---|---|
| St. Louis | Missouri | 1,976 |
| Detroit | Michigan | 1,745 |
| Baltimore | Maryland | 1,690 |
| Memphis | Tennessee | 1,547 |
| Cleveland | Ohio | 1,424 |
| Birmingham | Alabama | 1,356 |
| Little Rock | Arkansas | 1,312 |
| Milwaukee | Wisconsin | 1,270 |
| Oakland | California | 1,226 |
| Kansas City | Missouri | 1,205 |
What Makes a City “Dangerous”?
A “dangerous” city is typically measured by:
- Violent crime rate (murder, assault, robbery, rape)
- Property crime (theft, burglary, carjackings)
- Police-reported incidents per capita
- Gang activity, poverty rate, and unemployment
Top 5 Most Dangerous Cities in America (Explained)
1. St. Louis, Missouri
Often ranked #1 for violent crimes, St. Louis faces high rates of gun violence and gang-related crime, especially in north and central neighborhoods.
2. Detroit, Michigan
Once the hub of the auto industry, Detroit has struggled with economic decline, leading to high rates of robbery, assault, and gun crime.
3. Baltimore, Maryland
Despite its charm and coastal views, Baltimore suffers from drug-related violence and one of the highest murder rates in the country.
4. Memphis, Tennessee
Known for its music scene, Memphis also deals with gang violence, making it a hotspot for aggravated assault.
5. Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland continues to face issues tied to poverty, with rising property crimes and shootings reported year after year.
Cities to Be Aware Of (2025 Crime Trends)
Beyond the top 10, cities like Atlanta (GA), New Orleans (LA), Chicago (IL), and Albuquerque (NM) also face rising crime rates and should be watched closely.
Should You Avoid These Cities?
Not necessarily. Many of these cities have safe areas and improving neighborhoods. But if you live in or plan to visit, awareness of local crime zones is key. Use public crime maps, talk to locals, and stay in well-traveled, well-lit areas.
Pro Tips for Staying Safe
- Check local crime heatmaps (e.g., SpotCrime or NeighborhoodScout)
- Avoid walking alone at night in high-crime zones
- Lock vehicles and avoid leaving items inside
- Stay updated with neighborhood safety apps (Citizen, Nextdoor)
FAQs
Q1: What city has the highest crime rate in the US right now?
A: As of 2025, St. Louis leads the nation in violent crime rate.
Q2: Is Chicago still dangerous?
A: While Chicago has pockets of high violence, its overall crime rate has seen slight improvement. Some neighborhoods remain risky.
Q3: Are these cities unsafe to visit?
A: Not entirely. Many have safe zones, tourist-friendly areas, and improving law enforcement strategies. Caution is advised.
Q4: Why are these cities so dangerous?
A: Common causes include poverty, unemployment, gang activity, underfunded police departments, and drug-related violence.
Final Thoughts
Crime is complex. While these cities face serious challenges, they also have rich cultures, resilient communities, and ongoing efforts to improve safety.
This list of the most dangerous cities in the US isn’t about shaming – it’s about helping you stay informed, alert, and safe.