When considering a move, vacation, or even a road trip, it’s natural to check the safety of the destination. While every city has its safe neighborhoods and proud residents, crime statistics reveal that some areas face higher risks than others. The most dangerous communities in America often struggle with violent crime, property crime, and long-standing socioeconomic challenges. The cities that consistently rank as the most dangerous are Memphis, St. Louis, Detroit, Baltimore, Birmingham, Cleveland, and Little Rock, and this information is based on recent data from the FBI, U.S. News & World Report, and crime safety experts.
Disclaimer: While these cities are classified among the most dangerous communities in America, it’s important to remember that crime is often concentrated in specific areas. Many residents in these cities live safely within their communities. However, for those considering a move or visit, staying informed and taking precautions is always wise.
1. Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis tops multiple lists as one of the most dangerous communities in America in 2025. With a violent crime rate of 24.37 incidents per 1,000 people, the city battles high rates of aggravated assaults, robberies, and homicides. Despite its rich musical history and vibrant culture, Memphis struggles with poverty and gang activity, which experts cite as key drivers of crime.
2. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis has had issues with high crime rates, particularly homicides and shootings, for a number of years now. According to FBI data, St. Louis has a violent crime rate that far exceeds the national average – 14.70 per 1,000 residents (versus ~3.81 per 1,000 people nationally according to 2022 FBI reports). The city has also consistently reported one of the highest murder rates per capita.
3. Detroit, Michigan
Detroit has made significant strides in revitalizing its downtown and improving city services, but many neighborhoods still experience alarmingly high crime crates. Ranked among the top 5 most dangerous communities in America across several lists, Detroit reports a violent crime rate of 20.59 per 1,000 residents. The city also struggles with property crime, carjackings, and assaults, particularly in the most economically depressed areas.
4. Baltimore, Maryland
Famous for its historic waterfront and blue-collar crit, Baltimore is also infamous for its crime problems. In 2023, Baltimore experienced a surge in homicides and non-fatal shootings. According to MIRA Safety, the city’s violent crime rate is nearly five times the national average. Factors like drug trafficking, economic hardships, and under-resourced public services contribute to Baltimore being on this list of most dangerous communities in America.
5. Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham might not always make national headlines, but it consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous cities in the U.S. The city reportedly has a violent crime rate of around 15.47 incidents per 1,000 people. Like its counterparts on this list, Birmingham faces issues with gang violence, property crimes, and aggravated assaults. Despite community efforts to improve safety, crime remains a major concern for both residents and visitors.
6. Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is another city facing economic challenges on this list. Violent crime, including shootings and robberies, are particularly prevalent. Cleveland has unfortunately struggled with crime rates for years, largely driven by poverty, unemployment, and limited access to community support systems.
7. Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock may surprise some people with its inclusion, but the city has a violent crime rate of around 12.45 incidents per 1,000 people, landing it on this list. Factors such as gang activity and drug-related crimes contribute to its elevated crime statistics. Little Rock continues to invest in community policing and outreach programs, but challenges still remain.
What Can I Do To Stay Safe?
We think the answer is simple – level up your self-defense training. While we hope you never have to put these skills to the test, it’s important to be prepared rather than being stuck in a potentially dangerous situation without a plan.
Concealed Coalition offers firearms training courses across the country that can help you be prepared for anything. Not only will our highly experienced instructors teach you the basics of safe firearm handling, but they will also go over the laws in your area related to firearms and self-defense, so you can be assured that you are acting within your legal rights. Find a class near you today!
Additionally, regardless of whether you are traveling to a city that is considered risky or not, having a strong sense of situational awareness and some useful de-escalation tactics is also helpful.
Not sure where to start with learning (or brushing up on) these skills? Check out Concealed Coalition University – we’ve got an online library full of courses that cover not only these topics, but many others like home and family safety, non-lethal self-defense, and legal recourse after a self-defense incident.
Concealed Coalition University courses are broken up into easily manageable sections so you can learn at your own pace in the comfort of your own home. No matter where life takes you, rest assured you’ll be equipped to protect yourself and those who matter most.
Sources: U.S. News & World Report, Pew Research Center, Safe and Sound Security, MIRA Safety
