While the United States is home to many beautiful and safe cities, some urban areas unfortunately struggle with high crime rates. Whether you’re relocating, traveling, or simply curious about urban safety, it’s essential to understand where crime is most prevalent. This guide reveals the top 10 cities with highest crime rates in the United States in 2025, based on the latest violent crime statistics, including murder, robbery, and aggravated assault.
If you’re searching for the cities with highest crime rates in the US or the most dangerous cities in the country, this article will give you a detailed breakdown. We’ve analyzed FBI data and local crime reports to compile this list of the highest crime cities in the United States.
1. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis consistently ranks among the highest crime rate cities in US, especially for violent crimes. With a murder rate over 60 per 100,000 residents and widespread gun violence, it often tops the list of cities with most murders in the country. Despite efforts to improve public safety, the city remains one of the most dangerous cities in America.
2. Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis has some of the highest rates of aggravated assault and homicide in the nation. It ranks near the top of the list for cities in US with highest crime rates. Gang violence, poverty, and economic instability contribute heavily to its ranking among the highest crime cities in the United States.
3. Detroit, Michigan
Once the heart of the U.S. auto industry, Detroit has long struggled with violent crime. Although there has been some improvement in recent years, Detroit still ranks among the highest crime rate cities in US. Murders and assaults are particularly prevalent in certain neighborhoods, keeping it on the list of most dangerous cities.
4. Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore is known for its high murder rates and gang-related violence. The city frequently appears on lists of cities with highest murders rates and ranks high for both property and violent crimes. With over 300 homicides annually, Baltimore remains one of the highest crime cities US wide.
5. Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland has become one of the highest crime cities in United States, especially when it comes to violent offenses like assault and homicide. Economic challenges and systemic inequality are major contributors to its high crime levels.
6. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture, but also for its high crime. It ranks among the cities with highest crime rates in the US, especially for gun-related incidents and murder. The city continues to struggle with violence in many districts.
7. Oakland, California
Oakland faces high levels of property crime and violent offenses. It is frequently listed among the cities with highest crime rates in US. Despite being part of the booming Bay Area, Oakland’s crime challenges remain persistent, particularly in underserved communities.
8. Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock may surprise many with its placement on this list. However, its rates of violent crime are among the worst in the country. It’s one of the cities highest crime rate offenders per capita, making it a notable entry among the highest crime cities US wide.
9. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque ranks high for both property crime and violent crime. Drug issues and gang activity have placed it firmly among the highest crime cities in United States, with one of the highest per capita rates of aggravated assault.
10. Chicago, Illinois
While not always in the top spot for per capita crime rates, Chicago’s large population and sheer volume of shootings and homicides keep it in headlines. It’s one of the cities with highest murders rates and regularly associated with violent crime on a national scale.
FAQs – Cities with the Highest Crime Rates in the US
Q1. What city has the highest crime rate in the US?
A1. St. Louis, Missouri, currently has the highest violent crime rate per capita in the United States.
Q2. Which cities have the most murders in the US?
A2. Cities like St. Louis, Baltimore, Memphis, and Chicago consistently rank among the cities with most murders annually.
Q3. Are all big cities dangerous?
A3. No, many large cities like San Diego and Austin have relatively low crime rates. Crime is often localized to specific neighborhoods.
Q4. What contributes to high crime rates in these cities?
A4. Contributing factors include poverty, lack of education, gang activity, and limited economic opportunities.
Q5. Which state has the most high-crime cities?
A5. States like Missouri, Louisiana, and Michigan each have multiple cities on the list of highest crime rate cities in US.
Final Thoughts: While these highest crime cities in the United States face serious challenges, it’s important to remember that not every neighborhood within them is dangerous. These rankings serve as a guide, not a judgment. Awareness, education, and community support are key to making all American cities safer. If you’re researching the cities with highest crime rates in the US, let this guide be your starting point for deeper insight and understanding.
Explore more rankings and safety guides at USATop-10.
Want to compare cities for crime vs. cost of living? Use tools at CalculationClub for in-depth analysis and planning.
