The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Texas in 2023

Among the Most Violent Cities in Texas, There Is a Place With a Crime Rate Similar to Mexico

Before we dive into the list of the most dangerous cities in Texas for 2023, it’s crucial to make a few things clear:

Texas may be a great place with many safe towns and cities having crime rates lower than the national average, comparable to those in European nations.

Texas is a Wonderful Place, But…

Living in Texas isn’t inherently risky, but certain areas do pose a higher threat. In the following sections, you’ll find cities with some of the highest crime rates in both the state and the entire United States. In these places, the likelihood of falling victim to a crime, particularly violent crime, is significantly higher than the national average.

Previously, we’ve published guides on violent crime rates that stirred quite a bit of discussion and controversy:

• The 8 Safest Big Cities in the US and the Safest Metro Areas in 2023.
• The Most Dangerous Cities in California (Based on FBI Data)
• The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan in 2023
• The Most Dangerous Cities in Europe in 2023
• The Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico & Their Similarities

So, if you live in Texas or plan to move there, stay tuned for crime statistics that could impact your decision on where to reside.

The Criteria Used to Define the Most Dangerous Places in Texas

We’ll be covering both violent crimes per 100,000 people and homicide rates per 100,000 residents, helping you gauge the safety of a city.

First of all, we considered only cities with more than 30 thousand residents.

While this threshold may look random, there is a reason for it: small towns may have very distorted crime rates from one year to another.

This happens because one rare event, like a hostage situation during a bank robbery that has fatalities, can make a once-peaceful small city look dangerous, even though it happened that particular year and is unlikely to happen again.

This kind of single incident seldom impacts statistics in big cities. The crime rate in a city that is large doesn’t move considerably unless there is a citywide change, causing a real decrease in crime overall.

The violent crime rate per 100,000 residents is the measure we used (in other articles we used per 1000 people but here we opted per 100,000 since it is easier to handle smaller numbers). The rate is proportional to the number of people in the area. Violent crime is a set of offenses that includes murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault

The fact that all of the crime rates are calculated by 100,000 people guarantees a fair comparison between cities of distinct sizes.

All the data about Texas comes from the Uniform Crime Reporting Program and from the FBI (most specifically, from the UCR). Most of them come from the years 2021 or 2022 (we may update this when new data is available). The number of homicides from 2021.

The data for the comparison with other countries comes from the World Population Review.

The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Texas

For comparison purposes, have in mind that the US national average numbers are:

• Violent crime rate per 100,000 residents per year: 395.7
• Homicide rate per 100,000 residents per year: 6.9

10th –  Mesquite

County: Dallas 

Population: 147,899

Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 489

The Violent crime rate in Brownsville is 23.58% higher than the US national average.

Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 9

A country with a similar homicide rate: Russia

There are a number of factors that have contributed to Mesquite’s rising crime rate. One factor is the city’s proximity to Dallas, which is a major urban center with a high crime rate.

Another factor is the city’s growing population, which has put a strain on resources and led to an increase in social problems.

Neighborhoods such as the downtown area, Big Town, and Motley are especially fraught with risks.

9th – Killeen

County: Bell 

Population: 159,172

Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 619

The Violent crime rate in Brownsville is 56.43% higher than the US national average.

Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 12

A country with a similar homicide rate:  Uruguay

Areas such as Downtown Killeen, North Killeen, and the region surrounding Rancier Avenue are problematic. In these zones, instances of assault, robbery, and drug-related crimes are disproportionately high. 

In addition to the areas listed above, there are a number of other areas in Killeen that are considered to be high-crime areas. These areas include:

• The area around the Killeen Mall
• The area around the Central Texas Marketplace
• The area around the Killeen Amtrak station

8th – Port Arthur

County: Jefferson
Population: 118,355
Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 739
The Violent crime rate in Port Arthur is 86.76% higher than the US national average.
Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 11
A country with a similar homicide rate: Costa Rica

The violence in Port Arthur spiked in the early 2000s. This was due in part to the crack and cocaine epidemic, which led to an increase in gang activity, coinciding with economic downturns and demographic shifts. With a diverse population that includes sizable minority communities, the city also contends with gang activity, including groups like the Bloods and Crips.

Specific neighborhoods in Port Arthur have become epicenters of criminal activity. Areas such as El Vista, Griffing Park, and Sabine Pass harbor frequent instances of robberies, burglaries, and drug-related offenses.

7th – Amarillo

County: Potter
Population: 201,291
Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 746
The Violent crime rate in Amarillo is 88.53% higher than the US national average.
Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 7
A country with a similar homicide rate: Nicaragua

Notable gangs like the Barrio Azteca and Aryan Brotherhood have established a presence in Amarillo, amplifying the risks of drug trafficking, robberies, and violent assaults.

Certain sections of Amarillo, particularly neighborhoods like North Heights, San Jacinto, and East Amarillo, are particularly problematic.

6th – San Antonio

County: Bexar
Population: 1,472,909
Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 751
The Violent crime rate in San Antonio is 89.79% higher than the US national average.
Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 12
A country with a similar homicide rate: Uruguay

San Antonio is a city famed for its rich history, but unfortunately also struggles with significant safety issues. A surge in violent crimes has been observed since the mid-2010s, surpassing national averages in many categories.

The city has a diverse demographic, but certain minority neighborhoods bear the brunt of crime disproportionately. Gang activity, including the presence of groups like the Mexican Mafia and Tango Blast, exacerbates crime in San Antonio, contributing to increased drug trafficking and violent altercations.

Certain districts in San Antonio, such as the East Side, West Side, and certain parts of the Downtown area, are particularly rife with criminal activity

5th – Dallas

County: Dallas
Population: 1,299,544
Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 864
The Violent crime rate in Dallas is 118.35% higher than the US national average.
Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 17
A country with a similar homicide rate: Namibia

The violence in Dallas spiked in the early 2020s. This was due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to an increase in unemployment and poverty.

Contributing to this volatile mix are gang activities from groups like the Crips, Bloods, and MS-13. These criminal organizations are deeply involved in drug trafficking and violent offenses, adding a layer of complexity to an already problematic situation.

High-crime areas such as South Dallas, Pleasant Grove, and certain sections of Oak Cliff are especially vulnerable. These communities, many of which are economically disadvantaged and home to minority populations, suffer from elevated rates of robberies, assaults, and burglaries.

4th – Corpus Christi

County: Nueces
Population: 316,239
Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 879
The Violent crime rate in Corpus Christi is 122.14% higher than the US national average.
Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 6
A country with a similar homicide rate: Tanzania

A noticeable increase in violent crimes, particularly in the late 2010s, has plagued Corpus Christ. Various gangs, including the Mexican Mafia and Texas Syndicate, operate within Corpus Christi, contributing to the proliferation of drug trafficking and violent offenses. The gangs’ activities not only heighten insecurity but also serve as a grim reminder of the city’s ongoing struggle with crime.

Areas such as the Westside, Northside, and Central City have become focal points for criminal activities.

Most dangerous parts of Corpus Christi:

• Downtown area
• West side of town
• The area around Interstate 37

3rd – Lubbock

County: Lubbock
Population: 263,930
Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 1085
The Violent crime rate in Lubbock is 174.20% higher than the US national average.
Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 10
A country with a similar homicide rate: Uganda

Lubbock is best known for its role in agriculture and education, but the city faces a distressing reality when it comes to crime and public safety. The city has witnessed a spike in violent crimes, notably since the early 2010s, rates that are concerning when compared to national averages

Particularly vulnerable areas include the neighborhoods of East Lubbock, Arnett Benson, and Chatman Hill.

2nd – Beaumont

County: Jefferson
Population: 112,089
Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 1089
The Violent crime rate in Beaumont is 175.21% higher than the US national average.
Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 7
A country with a similar homicide rate: Paraguay

Beaumont was once known for its hard-working communities and family-friendly neighborhoods, but it has undergone a significant transformation over the years.

Today, it bears the dubious distinction of being labeled the “most dangerous city in Texas,” (although this is not completely true, since the numbers put Beaumont in the 2nd place). This title is not just a statistical anomaly; it reflects the grim reality faced by residents daily.

Drug activities and property crime in Beaumont have seeped into the very fabric of the city, affecting both affluent and less affluent areas alike. Even neighborhoods once considered “safe” are now plagued by criminal activities, including drug manufacturing. A recent incident involved a hazmat team being called to clear a house in an upscale neighborhood where methamphetamine was being produced. This incident underscores that the issue is not confined to any particular racial or socio-economic group.

Parkdale Mall, which used to be the commercial hub of Jefferson County, has become a hotspot for robberies, assaults, and kidnappings. Social media platforms are awash with residents sharing harrowing experiences, cautioning others about the dangers that lurk in public spaces. The city’s nightlife is no less perilous, with frequent overnight shootings reported at nightclubs and on the streets.

Between Beaumont and its equally unsafe neighbor, Port Arthur, the smaller towns of Nederland and Port Neches are still considered good places to raise families. However, the escalating crime rates in the surrounding areas cast a shadow over their future.

1st – Houston

County: Harris
Population: 2,302,878
Violent Crime rate per 100,000 people: 1240
The Violent crime rate in Houston is 213.37% higher than the US national average.
Homicide Rate per 100,000 Residents: 20
A country with a similar homicide rate: Central African Republic

Unlike cities with formal zoning laws that segregate residential and commercial areas, Houston’s lack of such regulations creates a fluid environment where affluence and poverty coexist within minutes of each other. This juxtaposition makes it challenging to define “safe” and “dangerous” neighborhoods in traditional terms.

Two of Houston’s neighborhoods, Sunnyside and Greater Third Ward, have earned spots on the FBI’s list of most dangerous areas in the nation, ranking 6th and 15th respectively.

However, the city’s complexities go beyond these statistics. In Houston, it’s not uncommon to transition from a street lined with mansions to an area rife with abandoned factories and open drug use within a matter of minutes. Similarly, one can exit a high-end shopping center and almost immediately encounter apartment complexes that frequently make headlines for crime.

This fluidity complicates the usual safety guidelines that work in other cities, such as avoiding specific neighborhoods or streets after dark. In Houston, even areas considered “safe” can have pockets of high crime, while so-called “dangerous” neighborhoods may house blocks of relative tranquility.

The city’s unique urban layout, combined with its high crime rates in certain areas, makes it a place where traditional safety norms are constantly challenged, requiring residents and visitors alike to be ever-vigilant.

Key Takeaways –  From San Antonio to Dallas, a High Crime Rate Is Still a Reality in 2023 for Certain Neighborhoods

Texas is a state of contrasts, known for its rich history and diverse landscapes. However, it’s also home to some of the most dangerous cities in the United States. Cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio have high violent crime rates, significantly higher than the national average. In Houston, the crime rate is a staggering 213.37% higher than the U.S. average, making it one of the most dangerous cities in the state.

The Texas Panhandle city of Amarillo also has its share of problems, with a violent crime rate of 7.18 per 1000 people. This rate is 88.53% higher than the national average. Amarillo’s crime issues are exacerbated by the presence of gangs like the Barrio Azteca and Aryan Brotherhood.

In the southern side of Texas, Corpus Christi experiences high violent crime rates, particularly on the west side of town. The city’s port contributes to its crime issues, including drug trafficking. Corpus Christi has a violent crime rate of 879 per 100,000 people, which is 122.14% higher than the U.S. average.

Lubbock, home to Texas Tech University, is another city that ranks among the most dangerous. With a violent crime rate of 1085 per 100,000 people, it’s 174.20% higher than the U.S. average. Areas like East Lubbock and Arnett Benson are particularly vulnerable to crime.

In summary, while Texas has many safe and wonderful places to live, it also has cities that are more dangerous than others. High violent crime rates in cities like Houston, Amarillo, and Corpus Christi make them among the most dangerous in the state.

If you enjoyed this article with the list of the most dangerous cities in Texas, check also:

How dangerous is the most diverse city in Florida: Is Hialeah safe as a place to live in or visit?

Where Can I Live? Our Expat Living City Guides

Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transaction.

The Most Dangerous Cities in California (Based on FBI…

Based on Crime Data, The 10 Most Dangerous Places in California to Avoid in 2023

Below you will discover the most dangerous cities in California in 2023, but before jumping into the criteria, the violent crimes per city, and so on, we need to do a disclaimer:

There are also very safe places in the golden state. Cities like Irvine, Murrieta, and many of the safest cities in California have lower crime rates than the national average and at similar levels to European countries.

Not everywhere in Cali is dangerous, but some places are. And in a few paragraphs, you will discover some of the highest crime rates in the state and the entire country, places where the chance of becoming a victim is dramatically increased.

Before, we wrote some guide about violence with considerable repercussion (and a fair share of polemics):

• The 8 Safest Big Cities in the US and the Safest Metro Areas in 2023.
• The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan in 2023
• The Most Violent Cities in Texas
• The Most Dangerous Cities in Europe in 2023
• The Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico & Their Similarities

Below is a quick explanation of the criteria we used for the list of the most dangerous cities in California.

The criteria used to define the most dangerous places in California

First of all, we considered only cities with more than 30 thousand residents.

While this threshold may look random, there is a reason for it: small towns may have very distorted crime rates from one year to another.

This happens because one rare event, like a hostage situation during a bank robbery that has fatalities, can make a once-peaceful small city look dangerous, even though it happened that particular year and is unlikely to happen again.

This kind of single incident seldom impacts statistics in big cities. The crime rate in a city that is large doesn’t move considerably unless there is a citywide change, causing a real decrease in crime overall.

The violent crime rate per 1000 residents is the measure we used. The rate is proportional to the number of people in the area. Violent crime is a set of offenses that includes murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault

The fact that all of the crime rates are calculated by 100,000 people guarantees a fair comparison between cities of distinct sizes.

All the data about California comes from:

• United States Census Bureau
• State of California Department of Justice

The national data for comparison comes from the UCR FBI.

The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in California

For comparison, the national violent crime rate in the United States is 3.95 crimes per 1000 people per year (or 395 crimes per 100,000 people per year, as per Statista). 

Any value above 3.95 is considered a higher crime rate than the rest of the US.

10 – Richmond

County: Contra Costa County
City Population: 110,567

Richmond violence numbers are 97% higher than the US national average. 

Opening our top 10, Richmond is located in the Bay area, very close to San Francisco.

The areas around the Richmond/El Cerrito border have become particularly worrisome, with residents and potential homebuyers expressing fear and uncertainty.

The general degradation in multiple cities in the Bay Area has only deepened this concern, casting Richmond in the common pool of cities where living can be a challenge.

Innovative (and controversial) approaches, like offering financial incentives to criminals to stop committing crimes, failed and couldn’t shift the broader narrative. 

Other areas of Richmond that are mentioned as dangerous are:

• Iron Triangle Area and North Richmond: 
• The Richmond BART station
• Point Richmond

9 – Antioch

County: Contra Costa County
City Population: 111,535

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 7.84

Violence numbers are 98% higher than the US national average. 

Antioch is another city from the bay area and not far from the previously mentioned Richmond.

According to NeighborhoodScout, the crime rate in Antioch is 48% higher than the national average. Violent crime, such as armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, and murder, is also higher than average in Antioch.

The areas of Antioch that are considered to be the most dangerous include:

• The city’s downtown core
• The area around the intersection of 9th Street and G Street
• The area around the intersection of Sycamore Avenue and A Street
• The area around the intersection of Lone Tree Way and Sycamore Avenue
• The area around the intersection of West 10th Street and I-80

8 – San Francisco

County: San Francisco County
City Population: 883,305

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 7.95

San Francisco violence numbers are 101% higher than the US national average. 

In this city, safety concerns extend beyond the well-known challenges in districts like the Tenderloin district (also known as San Francisco’s Skid Row). The city’s issues with crime are pervasive, affecting various areas. 

Neighborhoods that have also been identified as areas where crime rates are higher are:

• The previously mentioned Tenderloin District
• The Mission District
• The Bayview-Hunters Point District
• The Western Addition District
• The South of Market District

While the chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in San Francisco is almost double the US average, the property crime rate has even more shocking numbers.

Car break-ins are a city-wide problem, with nearly 30,000 reported last year, affecting residents and tourists alike. This issue is not confined to any single neighborhood but is a reflection of a broader problem of theft and vandalism that permeates the city.

The handling of these issues continues to be a matter of debate, and the lack of clear (and non-idealized) solutions contributes to a catastrophic situation in the largest city in the Bay area.

7 – Santa Cruz

County: Santa Cruz County
City Population: 64,465

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 8.26

Santa Cruz violence numbers are 109% higher than the US national average.

Differently from the previous 3 cities mentioned so far, Santa Cruz is not exactly in the San Francisco Bay Area, but it is still very close to it. Only a half-hour drive separates the city from the bay. 

So far, all cities mentioned here are in northern California, and so is Santa Cruz.

According to data from the FBI, the violent crime rate in Santa Cruz has increased by 15% in the past five years. Property crime has also increased by 10% in that time period.

There are a number of factors that have contributed to Santa Cruz’s rising crime rate. One factor is the city’s growing homeless population. Santa Cruz has one of the highest rates of homelessness in California,

The areas of Santa Cruz that are considered to be the most dangerous include:

• The downtown core
• Near the boardwalk
• The area around the university
• The area surrounding the local homeless shelter

6 – Modesto

County: Stanislaus County
City Population: 215,030

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 8.64

Modest violence numbers are 119% higher than the US national average.

There are a number of factors that contribute to Modesto’s high crime rate, but the most relevant is probably the city’s proximity to Stockton. Smaller cities often suffer an increase in the overall crime rate when cities around are too violent. 

Modesto is also a major transportation hub, which makes it a target for criminals.

The areas of Modesto that are considered to be the most dangerous include:

• The downtown core
• The area around the airport
• The area around the west side
• The area around the highway village
• The area around 9th street

5 – Vallejo

County: Solano County
City Population: 121,692

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 8.65

Vallejo violence numbers are 119% higher than the US national average.

Just like the city of Modesto, mentioned above, Vallejo is likely violent due to its proximity to an even more dangerous city: Oakland, which is one of the most dangerous in the United States.

The areas of Vallejo that are known to have high rates of violent crime are:

• Downtown Vallejo
• The area around the Mare Island Naval Base
• The area around the Vallejo Amtrak Station
• The area around the Vallejo Marina
• The area around the Vallejo High School

4 – San Bernardino

County: San Bernardino County
City Population: 215,941

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 9.92

San Bernardino violence numbers are 151% higher than the US national average.

 The city’s reputation has been marred by crime, economic blight, and specific neighborhoods that have some of the highest violent crime rates in California.

The city’s neighbor to the west, Rialto, is also known for its high crime rates.

Some neighborhoods in San Bernardino might be considered dodgy at night, and caution is advised when driving through these areas even during the daytime. Here are some of them:

• The area surrounding of San Bernardino train station
• The area around the San Bernardino City Hall, which is located near a number of homeless shelters.
• The area around the San Bernardino Community College. The college is close to a number of low-income neighborhoods that are considered unsafe.

3 – Compton

County: Los Angeles County
City Population: 96,455

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 11.49

Compton violence numbers are 191% higher than the US national average.

An enormous factor for Compton to be on the dangerous list is the city’s history of gang violence. Compton was once a major center for gang activity, and this legacy of violence continues to impact the city today. 

Some of the areas that add to the city’s violent crime rate are:

• The downtown core
• The vicinity of the Compton Swap Meet
• The surroundings of the Compton Community College
• The area around the Compton Metro Station

2 – Stockton

County: San Joaquin County
City Population: 311,178

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 13.31

Stockton has a crime rate 237% higher than the US national average.

Stockton’s urban area has degraded, especially due to agricultural industry shifts. The city has many unemployed, poor people who cannot speak English. These individuals live in inadequate housing, making education and socialization difficult for children. School attendance and performance are poor, and many kids join gangs.

Increasing violent crimes, including sexual assaults, are worsening in Stockton.

The city established Operation Raven to reduce crime, which reached 55 homicides in a single year—the highest in recent history. Stockton is also the fourth worst place to raise a child in the US.

Most dangerous parts of Stockton:

• Central City and Downton Stockton:  Numerous homeless and drug dealers. It is not recommended to leave your home during the night.
• South Stockton: Industrial areas and low-income neighborhoods. Better avoid.
• West Stockton: This area is home to a number of high-crime neighborhoods, including the Fruitridge neighborhood and the El Dorado neighborhood. West Stockton is also located near a number of freeways, which can make it easy for criminals to escape.

1 – Oakland – The Most Dangerous City in California

County: Alameda County
City Population: 425,195

Violent crime rate (per 1000 people, per year): 16.85

Oakland violence numbers are 327% higher than the US national average. 

When examining California’s most dangerous cities, Oakland stands out.

By the numbers, Oakland’s crime rate is scary. It has the second-highest rate of theft in the state and the third-highest rate of violent crimes per person.

Every three days, on average, a murder happens, and that’s just counting the ones that are known to have happened. One in twelve people who live in Oakland are robbed, attacked, or even killed every year. This is a shocking and disturbing number.

People have tried to solve these problems by getting the community involved, talking to people who are armed, and even talking to gang members who are in the hospital. Unfortunately, most of these attempts haven’t worked. People who break the law don’t seem to care about social values or the rule of law.

Shootings, armed thefts, and carjackings have all gone up by 50%, and carjackings have doubled. The situation has gotten so bad that people are being told to give up their car keys in order to avoid deadly fights.

The problem is made even worse by Oakland’s judicial system. Criminals are often let out of jail without posting bail, court cases take a long time, and there aren’t many charges.

The number of police officers has dropped to less than 700, which is the lowest amount it has been in decades.

Even when people are found guilty, their punishments are often short. This is part of a larger state policy that seems to favor “catch and release” over long-term jail time. This pattern is also seen in most of the most dangerous California cities. The ‘three strikes’ rule, which used to be a barrier, is no longer in place.

Key Takeaways –  San Bernardino and Stockton are NOT the only Places with a High Violent Crime Rate in CA

California has many cities that face challenges with crime.

While problems in areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco Bay Area are well-known, there are other places where a high violent crime rate stands.

The crime rate in Barstow tops the list, where being a victim of violent crime is 1 in 14. Other cities with the highest violent crime rates include areas with a significant population. The largest city in California, Los Angeles, has dangerous neighborhoods but also shows improvement.

Overall, the state’s approach to reducing crime varies across cities, and in many cases like the before mentioned innovative approaches in Richmond and San Francisco, are ineffective.

The Safest Cities in California

There are many cities with very low crime in California. Large cities in the Golden State like San Diego or Chula Vista are, in terms of crime at least, great places to live in California.

We published multiple well-researched articles about these cities. Below you can see their violent crime rates (remember that a value below 3.95 is considered a lower crime rate than the rest of the US), and if you click in their names, you will access a complete report about the best and worst neighborhoods in each one of them.

San Diego – 3.81 violent crimes per 100,000 people per year (San Diego also figures among the safest metro areas in the USA).

Santa Ana – 3.74 violent crimes per 100,000 people per year.

Santa Rosa – 3.68 

Escondido – 3.42

Anaheim – 3.17

Pasadena – 2.81

Garden Grove  – 2.31 violent crimes per 100,000 residents per year.

If you enjoyed this article with the list of the most dangerous cities in California, check also:

How dangerous is the most diverse city in Florida: Is Hialeah safe as a place to live in or visit?

Where Can I Live? Our Expat Living City Guides

Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transaction.

The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan in 2023

The Most Dangerous Place in Michigan Is Not Detroit – The Motor City Is Just 2nd

Before giving you the most dangerous cities in Michigan, a little disclaimer: when examining crime rates, the Midwest is generally average. However, things are changing in some especific cities across the region. Five years ago, this state had average crime rates per capita. It got worse since then, and now the state of Michigan has higher than national average crime rates. 

The state is now approaching the top ten in terms of robberies, shootings, carjackings, and other violent crimes. Within Michigan, there are some particularly dangerous areas where it is not safe to be out after dark due to high crime.

Before, we wrote some guide about violence with considerable repercussion (and a fair share of polemics):

• The 8 Safest Big Cities in the US and the Safest Metro Areas in 2023.
• The Most Dangerous Cities in Europe in 2023
• The Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico & Their Similarities
• The Dirtiest Cities in the World

Keep reading to discover the 15 most dangerous cities in Michigan (10 above 70,000 residents and 5 smaller towns).

The criteria used to define the most dangerous cities in Michigan

First of all, we considered only cities with more than 70 thousand residents.

While this threshold may look arbitrary, there is a reason for that: small cities can have very distorted crime rates from one year to another.

This happens since one single, very rare event (like hostage situation during a bank robbery that end in fatalities) can make a once peaceful little town go up in the ranking and look very dangerous, despite the fact that this situation just happened on that specific year and it is unlikely to repeat.

In larger, major cities, single events don’t change the statistics significantly. Either they are safe, or not.

The indicator considered is the violent crime rate per 1000 residents, meaning that the rate is proportional to the population. To calculate the rate of violent crime, the types of crime taken into account are murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.

The fact that all of the crime rates are calculated by 100,000 people guarantees a fair comparison between cities of distinct sizes.

All the data about criminality in Michigan comes from the Uniform Crime Reporting Program and from the FBI (most specifically, from the UCR). Most of them come from the years 2021 or 2022 (we may update this when new data is available). The number of homicides in from 2021.

The data for the comparison with other countries comes from the World Population Review.

The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan

For comparison, the national violent crime rate rate in the United States is 3.95 crimes per 1000 people per year (or 395 crimes per 100,000 people per year, as per Statista). 

Any value above 3.95 is considered above the national average.

10 – Dearborn

County: Wayne County
Population: 98,154
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people per year: 14.46

Although the number of violent crimes in Dearborn is way lower than in placees like Detroit, the city has a much higher crime rate than the National average (3.95).

Dearborn is often perceived as dangerous due to a combination of factors. One significant reason is the ethnic tensions that have arisen because of its large Arab-American population. While many residents coexist peacefully, misunderstandings and stereotypes can sometimes lead to conflicts. The cultural differences, combined with economic challenges and other social issues, have occasionally resulted in clashes. 

The east side of Dearborn, near Detroit, is riskier than other parts of the city. 

9 – Warren

County: Macomb County
Population: 134,058
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 16.08

Warren has a high poverty rate, with over 20% of the population living below the poverty line.  High unemployment rate is another issue, with over 7% of the population unemployed. If that was not enough, Warren has a significant drug problem, and gangs are active in parts of the city. 

The local police department is cracking hard on crime in this city, on an attempt to decrease gang activity. Recently, 440 people were arrested in the biggest crime sweep in Warren’s history.

8 – Clinton Township

County: Macomb County
Population: 92,343
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 17.88

Clinton Township is rated unsafe for a number of reasons. Among them is that it is close to the metropolitan area of Detroit, which has a high crime rate. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Clinton Township is 1 in 280, which is much higher than the national average of 1 in 2,960.

Another reason is that there are a lot of people who move in and out of Clinton Township (“dormitory city”). This makes it hard to build a sense of community and trust among the people who live there. 

7 – Westland

County: Wayne County
Population: 92,528
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 21.72

Westland has a high rate of substance abuse, particularly among young people. The city has also a number of abandoned buildings and vacant lots that are used for illegal activities.

According to data from NeighborhoodScout, the likelihood of becoming a victim of violent crime in Westland stands at 1 in 235, while the chances of encountering property crime are 1 in 80. This indicates a relatively higher risk compared to other cities of similar size.

6 – Wyoming

County: Kent County
Population: 71,259
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 23.76

Wyoming is a mid- to lower-class suburb with subpar schools, so it’s not the ideal spot for families. But it is probably the most affordable suburb that directly touches Grand Rapids. It is safer if you live in any neighborhood south of 36th street.

Although it’s not always unsafe, the region north of 36th street may be more risky.

5 – Flint

County: Genesee County
Population: 92,369
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 24.46

Flint is about as risky and impoverished as Detroit.

Once a booming hub due to its auto industry, Flint faced economic decline when major factories shut down. This economic downturn resulted in job losses, increased poverty rates, and subsequent social challenges.

Everything departed with the auto companies when they went. the hopes, work, and people.

Flint’s crime rate is a significant concern among residents. Many locals have personal experiences or anecdotes of criminal activities, from thefts to more severe violent crimes. The city’s crime rate, especially violent crimes, is considerably higher than the national average.

4 – Grand Rapids

County: Kent County
Population: 201,922
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 28.15

According to the US Census Bureau, 25% of Grand Rapids residents live below the poverty line. 

One of the primary concerns raised by residents and visitors alike is the presence of certain neighborhoods that are perceived as more dangerous due to drug and gang-related activities.  The city also has a history of gang violence. Grand Rapids has a long history of gang violence, dating back to the 1980s. 

Areas such as the southeast side are known for having higher crime rates. Specific streets like Bemis, Baxter, Eastern, and Wealthy are often mentioned as areas with notable gang activity. 

3 – Lansing

County: Ingham County
Population: 117,865
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 29.42

The state capital of Michigan is reportedly a terrible place to live, at least according to both data and many Michigan residents. Both income and poverty rates are much lower than average.

Lansing is characterized by pockets of well-maintained areas interspersed with rundown neighborhoods. There are both safe and unsafe sites in Lansing. Some may be just a few streets apart. For instance, Baker Street in Lansing has garnered a negative reputation over the years. In East Lansing, close to the Michigan State, real estate prices are costlier, as the majority of the apartment buildings cater to students. 

2 – Detroit

County: Wayne County
Population: 639,116
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 43.92

You expected to see this name among the most dangerous cities in the state, and here it is.

Detroit has earned its reputation as one of the most dangerous Michigan cities, as well as in the entire US. The city has a population that has witnessed significant changes over the years, with economic downturns and other factors contributing to the high crime rates.

In a certain way, Detroit is to the US what Manchester is to the UK.

While a few areas are relatively safe (or at least not extremely dangerous), with a visible police presence, many neighborhoods unfortunately suffer from very high violent crime rates. 

Detroit’s 48205 used to be the most dangerous zip code in America. There are still drive-by shootings.

Other areas where a person has a high chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime are:

• East Side: Especially areas around Gratiot and Chene.
• West Side: Areas around Joy Road and Dexter.
• Southwest Detroit: Particularly around Michigan Avenue and Livernois.

1 – Kalamazoo, The Most Dangerous Place in Michigan

County: Kalamazoo County
Population: 76,175
Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 46.54

Kalamazoo is home to Western Michigan University and has seen some growth in recent years.

Locals reported that their vehicle had been broken into multiple times in a neighborhood called Westwood. There is a constant police presence in the area due to frequent vehicle thefts and break-ins. Some reported that are eagerly awaiting the day they can move out of that area.

Other areas that are considered dangerous in Kalamazoo are:

• Northside
• West Douglas
• Edison

Smaller Cities (< 70,000 residents) with high criminality: Muskegon Heights, Saginaw, and…

While in our ranking above we considered only larger cities with more than 70,000 inhabitants, there are smaller towns with remarkably high rates of property crime, burglary, motor vehicle theft and other types of violent and property crimes. 

Other smaller towns, like Highland Park, while not figuring in this list, experience explosive increase in crime rate, and therefore may appear among the most dangerous in future updates.

Here are the top 5 among smaller cities with the highest rate of crime in Michigan:

5 – Hart

Population: 2,087

Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 53.67

4 – Decatur

Population: 1,707

Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 58

3 – Benton Harbor

Population: 9,660

Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 58.18

2 – Benton Township

Population: 14,230

Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 59.66

1 – Muskegon Heights

Population: 10,673

Violent Crime rate per 1,000 people: 66.99

Muskegon Heights, a city in Muskegon County, stands out with alarming figures. A resident has a 1 in 17 chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime.

Key Takeaways – Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan Based on Crime Rates

Michigan, like almost any other state, has its share of cities with high crime rates. The city of Kalamazoo tops the list as the most dangerous place in Michigan, with a violent crime rate of 46.54 per 1,000 people.

Surprisingly, Detroit, often perceived as the epicenter of crime, is the second most dangerous city, with a rate of 43.92. Lansing, the state capital, is the third most dangerous place, followed by Grand Rapids as the fourth most dangerous. Cities like Detroit and Flint have seen economic downturns, leading to increased crime rates.

Considering the smaller towns, Benton Harbor has a crime rate of 58.18 per 1,000, making it one of the highest among smaller cities. Muskegon Heights, a small city with a population of 10,673, has a staggering crime rate of 66.99, making it the most dangerous among cities with less than 70,000 residents.

Property crime is also a significant concern in many of these cities. For instance, in Westland, the likelihood of falling victim to a violent crime stands at 1 in 235. Despite its small size, the city of Hart has a violent crime rate of 53.67 per 1,000 people.

As with bigger cities in the United States, local factors such as economic challenges, unemployment, and social issues play a role in crime statistics.

If you enjoyed this article with the list of the most dangerous cities in Michigan, check also:

Is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, still safe?

How dangerous is the most diverse city in Florida: Is Hialeah safe as a place to live in or visit?

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Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transaction.