A recent U.S. News and World Report study looked at each city’s murder and property crime rates per 100,000 people, determined by FBI crime reports, and determined the most dangerous places to live in the United States for 2025-2026.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely caught myself scrolling through crime statistics—yep, the ones that tell you how likely you are to be a victim in different places. It’s funny how quickly they take you back to those scary news stories on TV. And before you know it, you’re double-checking your locks and putting your car keys between your fingers.
It’s not just about us, though. Often, it’s the people we love that we’re really worried about, especially the little ones. The idea of one of them (or any of our loved ones) becoming a crime statistic is enough to keep us up at night. Life would be so much simpler if safety was a given, right?
There are places in the U.S. with lots of nightlife and activities. But when it comes down to it, you’ve got to ask: Is it really safe? While we can’t predict the future, knowing what to expect can go a long way. This list of the ten most dangerous places in the U.S., according to a recent study, might just help you with your next move.
Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis may ooze Southern charm, but danger lurks just beneath the surface. It’s been dubbed the most dangerous city in the U.S., with violent and property crime rates soaring above the national average. Here, you’ve got a shocking one in ten chance of falling victim to crime.
Sure, the city’s close-knit vibe and affordable living draw families in, but would you feel safe tucking your kids in every night? If you’re set on staying (or moving there), avoid dangerous neighborhoods like Downtown, North Memphis, and Frayser.
St. Louis, Missouri
You’d think a city with so much pride and history would feel safer, right? However, the crime rate in St. Louis is jaw-dropping, with 87 incidents per 1,000 residents, making it a frequent name in national news for all the wrong reasons. It’s no wonder people are cautious about where they go after dark.
Officials are working hard to tackle the problem. Crime and homicide have dropped in some areas, but staying alert is still a must. If you’re heading out, think twice about Downtown or the northern neighborhoods—they’re hotspots for trouble.
Detroit, Michigan
I’m betting you know those stories. Detroit was once a booming hub with nearly two million residents before World War II. But, an economic downturn, auto industry struggles, and a 2013 bankruptcy hit the city hard, and the population plummeted. Unfortunately, crime hasn’t improved until now.
Detroit is only safer than 1% of U.S. cities, with 66 crimes per 1,000 residents. And watch where you park your car—there’s a 1 in 65 chance it might get stolen.
Birmingham, Alabama
I get why people are drawn to Birmingham—who wouldn’t love hiking Red Mountain Park or catching the annual Sidewalk Film Festival? But here’s the deal: it’s also one of the least safe cities in the U.S., with 60 crimes per 1,000 residents.
Your odds of facing violent crime is about one in 59. Plus, your car has a one in 108 chance of it getting swiped. Neighborhoods like Airport Highlands are especially rough, with thefts, assaults, and robberies making headlines far too often.
Little Rock, Arkansas
It’s a little hard to say no to the natural beauty of Little Rock. But talking about safety might change some things. Living here means a one in 14 chance of falling victim to a crime. With a staggering rate of 72 incidents per 1,000 people, it’s no surprise some are having second thoughts about moving here.
Larceny theft tops the list of property crimes, and Little Rock’s overall crime rate is a whopping 193% higher than the Arkansas average. It also ranks in the bottom 1% of the safest cities nationwide. Yikes!
New Orleans, Louisiana
There’s more to this place than Mardi Gras beads and Bourbon Street strolls. Beyond the charm, crime and infrastructure issues make life here tough for many.
Violent crime is at 14.46 per 1,000 residents, and property crime soars at 46.52 per 1,000—both way above the national average. And gun violence is a grim reality, with 887 people injured or killed in 2022 alone.
Cleveland, Ohio
There’s no use sugarcoating it; Cleveland has its issues, and safety is a big one. Your probability of being victimized by violent crime here is one in 61, way worse than Ohio’s overall score at one in 341. With 10.30 assaults per 1,000 residents, it’s easy to see why people are hesitant to come to Cleveland.
The city boasts world-class healthcare, schools, and job prospects, but when it comes to safety, those things don’t mean much if you’re constantly looking over your shoulder.
Kansas City, Missouri
You might think of Kansas City as the place to catch a Chiefs game or enjoy a night out with friends. But behind the fun, crime is a real concern.
While the U.S. average for assaults is 2.68 per 1,000 residents, Kansas City’s rate is 11.56. Add thousands of motor vehicle thefts and burglaries every year, and you’ve got a one in 21 chance of becoming a property crime victim. Suddenly, that next game day doesn’t sound so exciting, does it?
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Most people would expect a place with sandy beaches and mini golf to be all fun and relaxation. But it’s not that simple, even for Myrtle Beach.
This vacation town has a crime rate of 77 per 1,000 residents, one of the highest in the U.S. Your odds of falling victim to violent crime is about one in 100, covering everything from armed robbery to assault with a deadly weapon. You might want to think twice before setting up camp in one of the country’s most dangerous spots.
Denver, Colorado
Denver is a city with incredible mountain views and outdoor adventure, from skiing to hiking and great camping spots. But behind the beauty is a dark side, too.
Property crime is rampant, with a one in 16 probability of it happening to you. Burglary, larceny, and car theft are common, not to mention an alarmingly high murder rate. The city is trying to make changes, like boosting police presence and adding trust patrols, but until then, staying alert is key if you’re visiting or living here.
Source: U.S. News
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