What makes a city dangerous? Violent crimes such as murder, robbery, and assault often tell the story. With America home to thousands of cities, some unfortunately stand out for their higher crime rates. Using FBI statistics, we’ve pinpointed the top 11 most dangerous cities in the US, ranked by violent felonies per 100,000 residents.

While recent data shows declining crime rates across the country, these cities continue to struggle with socioeconomic issues, strained police resources, and systemic challenges. Here’s a detailed look at each city, its struggles, and ongoing efforts to create safer communities.

1. San Bernardino, California

San Bernardino, with a population of around 222,000, is one of California's oldest cities. It boasts historical significance as a former mining town and as the site of the first McDonald's. Unfortunately, the city faces a grim reality regarding crime rates.

In 2019, San Bernardino recorded a violent crime rate of 1,319 incidents per 100,000 people, including 46 murders. Despite these statistics, the city has shown signs of improvement in recent years. Initiatives targeting gang activity and better funding for law enforcement have started to curb violence. However, crime remains a pressing issue, surpassing state averages.

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2. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis, the home of the iconic Indy 500, is also known for its museums and vibrant green spaces. Yet, it struggles with a violent crime rate of 1,333.96 per 100,000 residents, as recorded in 2019.

Efforts to combat crime include the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force, which works to reduce the flow of illegal firearms. Community programs addressing poverty and improving education are promising, though significant challenges persist.

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3. Albuquerque, New Mexico

As New Mexico’s largest city, Albuquerque is steeped in culture and history, with roots dating back to 1706. Despite its charm, the city grapples with rising crime.

The violent crime rate reached 1,369.14 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2019 and has seen a 19% increase in homicides since then. Law enforcement agencies have turned to technology, using live mapping and gunshot recognition apps to combat the issue. These tools aim to make Albuquerque safer, but there’s still work to be done.

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4. Stockton, California

Stockton, a smaller port city with a population of around 320,000, ranks high for violent crime, recording 1,414.56 incidents per 100,000 people in 2019.

The city’s economic struggles, exacerbated by the 2008 financial crisis, have fueled crime. Stockton has implemented anti-gang programs and increased police funding through taxes to address the problem. These initiatives are beginning to yield positive results, but challenges remain.

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5. Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, situated on Lake Erie, is renowned for its healthcare advancements and industrial contributions. However, its violent crime rate of 1,556.76 per 100,000 residents places it among America’s most dangerous cities.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted local policing and exacerbated poverty, contributing to a surge in crime between 2020 and 2021. Recent efforts focus on reducing poverty and strengthening community ties, signaling a brighter future for Cleveland.

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6. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, a city celebrated for its brewing history and rich cultural diversity, has over 500,000 residents. Unfortunately, the city’s violent crime rate, at 1,597.36 incidents per 100,000 people, has contributed to its population decline.

Economic disparities and systemic challenges have made Milwaukee less attractive for families and businesses. However, city officials are optimistic about reversing the trend. Investments in urban development and law enforcement programs are underway, aiming to foster a safer environment and encourage people to return to the city.

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7. Kansas City, Missouri

Known for its vibrant jazz scene and mouth-watering barbecue, Kansas City also struggles with a crime rate of 1,724.31 violent felonies per 100,000 residents. This is compounded by an alarming increase in homicides, drawing national attention to the city’s public safety issues.

The Kansas City Police Department, in collaboration with community organizations, has initiated programs to address root causes like poverty and mental health challenges. These programs aim to provide better access to resources for at-risk communities, helping to mitigate the conditions that lead to violence.

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8. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis, a hub for blues and rock-and-roll history, faces a troubling crime problem. In 2023, nearly 400 homicides were recorded, translating to 63 murders per 100,000 residents—a figure far above the national average.

High poverty levels and insufficient police funding exacerbate Memphis’s challenges. Recent federal funding and initiatives like the Violent Crime Initiative are providing some hope. These efforts focus on strategic law enforcement, job creation, and community outreach programs designed to address the underlying causes of crime.

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9. Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore, a major port city and cultural landmark, has a violent crime rate of 2,027.01 incidents per 100,000 people. Known for its depiction in the crime drama The Wire, the city has struggled with real-life crime that mirrors its on-screen portrayal.

In 2021, the city adopted a new approach to crime reduction, treating violence as a public health crisis. Baltimore has seen significant progress in recent years by focusing on rehabilitation, community development, and better access to mental health resources. These efforts are paving the way for a safer future.

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10. Detroit, Michigan

Detroit, once a thriving automotive industry center, experienced a dramatic decline in population and economic stability in the late 20th century. These challenges have fueled crime, with a violent crime rate of 2,056.67 per 100,000 residents recorded in 2019.

Despite these figures, Detroit is on a path to recovery. Improved wages, reduced poverty levels, and increasing tourism are helping to stabilize the city. Investments in public safety and community programs have begun to lower crime rates, offering hope to its residents.

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11. St. Louis, Missouri

Topping the list as the most dangerous city in the US, St. Louis recorded 2,082.29 violent crimes per 100,000 people in 2019. Poverty, racial segregation, and economic disparities have long plagued the city, contributing to its high crime rates.

However, advancements in law enforcement technology, such as Flock cameras that can instantly identify license plates linked to criminal activity are starting to make a difference. Combined with community outreach initiatives, these measures are helping to curb crime and restore a sense of safety in the city.

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