Thinking of visiting the United States? Well, some cities might be better left unchecked on your 2024 US travel list, they’re the most dangerous cities in the US. Some cities are not as welcoming as they seem—danger can lurk around every corner. You might expect lively streets and sunny skies, but instead, you’ll find shadows and hidden risks.

But knowing is always your best defense. In this guide, we’ll deal with the most dangerous cities in the US, share tips for staying safe, and suggest safer travel options for 2024.

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Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in the U.S. for 2024

Here are the ten most dangerous cities in the US for 2024, including some key points for each city.

1. Memphis, Tennessee: Violent crime rates there are a staggering 500% above the national average, with about 1,200 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. There are tremendous socioeconomic problems and gang involvement. The police are trying, but at least partly, budgets can tie their hands.

2. St. Louis, Missouri: This city has a homicide rate of over 650 per 100,000 residents. A big factor is gun violence. The high poverty and issues with housing and education don’t make it any better.

3. Detroit, Michigan: Violent crime rates hover at about 1,000 per 100,000. The homicides and shootings have just been continuous there. Economic recession and unemployment are widespread in the area, though some spots are improving.

4. Birmingham, Alabama: Violent crimes are above the national average, with over 700 violent crimes committed per 100,000 residents. The funding of law enforcement isn’t proper, and while community policing has slightly increased, its results are inconsistent at best.

5. Baltimore, Maryland: It’s infamous for its murder figures, often recording more than 300 per year. Major problems of gun violence and drugs persist here. Because of a combination of street-level economic struggle, drug trafficking, and gang activity, crime is terrifyingly complex.

6. Kansas City, Missouri: Violent crime rates are high, standing at about 1,400 per 100,000. Gun violence has risen during COVID-19 and fallen by less. Both poverty and organized crime play big parts in this worrying picture.

7. Cleveland, Ohio: Crime is three times greater than the national average, and aggravated assaults are also increasing. As might be expected, poverty abounds, and joblessness is common as well. Clearly, community efforts to reduce violence are underway, but many challenges remain.

8. New Orleans, Louisiana: Recently, this city has faced an increased crime rate, almost double the average rate compared with the nation. Some of the major actors adding to it include economic problems and inequality. There are set-up activities like “Violence Reduction Zones,” but their impact has been limited.

9. Little Rock, Arkansas: Violent crime rates are at an estimated 1,400 per 100,000, with aggravated assaults and robberies leading the statistics. There is also widespread economic desperation and drug use. Community programs are being attempted but with limited effectiveness.

10. Stockton, California: Crime rates here are over 1,300 violent incidents per 100,000 people, with many homicides and gang issues. Economic troubles and lack of police funding make it worse, even with community programs in place.
    
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Most Common Crimes in U.S. Cities

Now, here are some of the most common crimes in U.S. cities:

• Larceny-Theft: The unlawful taking of things, which includes pocket-picking and shoplifting.
• Burglary: Breaking and entering into homes and businesses usually to steal.
• Motor Vehicle Theft: This category includes theft or attempted theft of cars.
• Aggravated Assault: This involves various forms of attacks that are meant to badly hurt someone, most of the time with the use of a weapon.
• Robbery: This is taking property through force or intimidation.
• Murder: Intentional killing, though less frequent than other crimes.
• Drug Possession and Trafficking: This consists of the possession of drugs that are illegal to have or the sale of drugs.
• Identity Theft and Fraud: Stealing personal information from a person or hoodwinking a person for financial gain.
• Vandalism: The willful destruction of property, such as graffiti or breaking items.

Why Some Cities Are More Dangerous Than Others?

Some cities in the U.S. face high crime rates due to factors like social and economic issues and scarce police resources.

First, densely populated areas like New York and Chicago, where people live close together, often see higher rates of theft and vandalism. Studies show that increased anonymity in crowded places can lower the fear of being caught and provide more potential targets, adding to the problem.

Also, poverty is a major issue in cities like Detroit, where economic hardship can push people toward crime. Economic instability also affects mental health, which can increase the risk of violence.

Then, unemployment can make people desperate, leading to more burglaries and crimes. Economists have found that a 1% increase in the unemployment rate is associated with an increase in property crimes.

Gangs and drugs also fuel violence and chaos, and easy access to guns worsens the situation.

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How to Protect Yourself Against Common Crimes in the U.S.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe while visiting the most dangerous cities in the US because safety should always be a priority:

• Avoid Sharing Your Routine: Posting travel plans on social media is a really bad idea. Let only close friends or family know.
• Online Safety: Use strong, unique passwords, and don’t reuse them. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.
• Stay Alert While Walking: Distractions like phone use can be dangerous. Trust your gut if something feels off.
• Limit Valuable Items: Keep cash, electronics, and jewelry out of sight. When traveling, just carry the essentials.
• Bring Personal Safety Devices: Personal alarms, whistles, or pepper spray (if legal)? Good idea for high-crime areas.
• Choose Well-Lit, Populated Routes: Stick to busy streets and avoid isolated areas. Don’t be unnecessarily bold about traveling alone at night. Really, it’s not worth it.
• Trust Reliable Transport Options: Licensed taxis and trusted rideshares are best. Verify driver details before hopping in.
• Use Secure Wi-Fi Network: Always connect to a secure Wi-Fi network to protect your personal data. Avoid using public unsecured Wi-Fi, as it leaves you vulnerable to hacking.
• Use a Travel eSIM: For added security, consider using a safer option like a Yoho Mobile eSIM, which provides more protection than traditional SIM cards and Wi-Fi networks.

Stay Safely Connected & Informed with a Yoho Mobile eSIM

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Travel to These Cities Instead: America’s Safest Cities

Some of the safest cities in America owe their low crime rates to strong community involvement and effective crime prevention strategies. Below are a few of the safest U.S. cities to consider if safety is your priority.

Irvine, California: This city stands out for its low violent crime rates, with only 54 violent crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022. It also boasts strong community engagement and active participation in education, making it a great choice to travel with the family.

Naperville, Illinois: Compared to the average in Illinois, Naperville’s rate of crime is almost 90% lower, a haven they would say. Community policing builds trust while programs like the Citizens Police Academy have helped to fill the gap between law enforcement and those it serves.

Frisco, Texas: Even while being one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, Frisco keeps its crime rate at a minimum of about 86 per 100,000 people. They also use technology in the prevention of crime, which is highly innovative and effective for safety.

Cary, North Carolina: Cary has an impressively low 61 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. The community is involved in safety programs, which makes it an attractive town to live in with ample green space.

Madison, Wisconsin: Compared to the national average, crime rates are about 40% lower in Madison. Educational institutions boost community involvement and provide a general contribution to safety, while parks and trails bequeath the city with charisma.

Plano, Texas: The violent crime rate in Plano is only 111 per 100,000, which is quite low. Besides, with the help of programs like “Citizens on Patrol,” residents are very active when it comes to safety, thus it is one of the best options for families.

Virginia Beach, Virginia: Virginia Beach has a violent crime rate of 140 per 100,000, which is clearly lower than many cities of this size. Community-oriented policing helps to prevent too much criminal activity, making the city one of the perfect places for your family. It is considered a top tourist destination.

Photo by Rosemary Ketchum