11 small U.S. towns with high crime rates

It turns out you don’t need skyscrapers or subways to worry about crime anymore; sometimes it’s waiting right on Main Street.

When people think of dangerous places, they often picture sprawling cities like Chicago or Detroit, but the reality is shifting in surprising ways across the country. Small towns, once seen as safe havens from big-city problems, are increasingly dealing with the same violent struggles that plague major metropolitan areas. You might be shocked to learn that per capita crime rates in some rural communities now rival or even exceed those in the largest urban centers.

This trend is reshaping how Americans decide where to raise families, buy homes, or retire, as safety becomes a harder puzzle to solve. Local police departments in these smaller jurisdictions often lack the funding and manpower to handle the surge, leaving residents feeling vulnerable in their own neighborhoods. It is a stark reminder that high crime is no longer just a problem for skyscrapers and subways but has found a foothold on Main Street.

Bessemer, Alabama

Bessemer sits just outside Birmingham and has unfortunately earned a reputation that makes many locals uneasy about walking alone at night. The economic struggles here are visible, and they often fuel a cycle of theft and aggression that law enforcement finds difficult to break. Eufy data from late 2025 indicates a violent crime rate of 23.57 per 1,000 residents, a figure that is startlingly high for a town of its size.

Families here often talk about the need for better community programs to keep young people off the streets and away from trouble. The heavy police presence is noticeable, yet many residents say they still sleep with one eye open. Despite the charm of its historic buildings, the safety concerns are a constant cloud hanging over the daily lives of the people who call this place home.

Lumberton, North Carolina

Travelers passing through on I-95 might know Lumberton as a convenient stop, but those who stay longer see a different side of this diverse community. It has struggled for years with poverty and drug activity, which inevitably spills over into property crime and violent confrontations. The property crime rate here is roughly 119.6 per 1,000 people, meaning theft is a constant worry for business owners and homeowners alike.

Locals often share stories about keeping their doors locked tight and installing cameras just to feel a bit of peace inside their own living rooms. Community leaders are working hard to change the narrative, but turning the tide is a slow and exhausting process. For now, the town remains a place where being cautious is not just a suggestion but a necessary way of life for everyone.

Saginaw, Michigan

Saginaw was once a booming manufacturing hub, but the departure of industry jobs left a void that crime has unfortunately rushed to fill. The streets here tell a story of resilience mixed with hardship, as neighbors band together to watch out for one another amidst rising tension. WCMU Public Radio says a recent FBI report analysis highlighted that the city experiences about 2.2 violent crimes for every 100 people, ranking it among the most dangerous spots in the state.

Residents often reminisce about the glory days of the auto industry while acknowledging the gritty reality of their current situation. Efforts to revitalize the downtown area are promising, yet the shadow of violence keeps many potential investors at bay. It is a community with a lot of heart, but it is currently fighting a very tough battle against the statistics that define it.

Monroe, Louisiana

Located in the northern part of the state, Monroe acts as a regional hub for shopping and healthcare, but it also draws in a significant amount of criminal activity. The mix of transient traffic and local economic disparity creates a perfect storm for both violent offenses and property theft. You have to be aware of your surroundings here, as the city consistently ranks high on lists of dangerous areas due to its struggles with assault and burglary.

People here are friendly and welcoming in that classic Southern way, even as they navigate the challenges of high crime rates. Police officers are a common sight, patrolling neighborhoods that have seen better days but still hold onto hope for a safer future. The community is trying to find its footing, but the road to safety is steep and full of obstacles that require more than just quick fixes.

Gallup, New Mexico

Gallup serves as a commercial center for a vast rural area, bringing in crowds that sometimes overwhelm the local resources designed to keep order. Alcohol-related offenses have historically been a major issue here, often leading to more serious violent encounters on the streets. HomeSnacks data reveal a violent crime rate of 1,503.6 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly higher than both the state and national averages.

The stark beauty of the surrounding high desert contrasts sharply with the gritty issues facing the town center after the sun goes down. Many locals have deep roots here and refuse to leave, choosing instead to fight for a better environment for their children. It is a place of rich culture and history, yet it is currently burdened by a crime problem that demands immediate and sustained attention.

Muskegon Heights, Michigan

This small community often gets overshadowed by its larger neighbor, but its crime statistics are impossible to ignore for anyone looking at the data. The economic downturns have hit hard here, leaving behind empty storefronts and a lack of opportunity that often leads to desperation. Residents face a crime rate that is 114.61 percent higher than the national average, making everyday tasks like grocery shopping feel riskier than they should be.

Community groups are active and vocal, pushing for more youth engagement and job training to break the cycle of violence. There is a palpable sense of frustration among the people who remember safer times and want to see their town thrive again. The spirit of the town is strong, but the weight of the crime numbers is a heavy burden for such a small population to carry.

Darlington, South Carolina

Famous for its raceway and NASCAR heritage, Darlington attracts thousands of visitors, but the quiet days between races hide a troubling reality. The town battles with a level of assault and theft that seems out of proportion to its small population and charming appearance. NeighborhoodScout analysis suggests that your chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in this area is roughly 1 in 65.

This statistic is alarming for a town that feels like a close-knit community where everyone knows everyone else’s name. Residents often discuss the need for more neighborhood watch programs to deter criminals who take advantage of the quiet streets. It is a place where the roar of the engines is occasionally drowned out by the sirens of police cars responding to yet another call.

Alexandria, Louisiana

Alexandria sits at the crossroads of Louisiana, serving as a vital link for the state, but this position also brings a steady flow of crime. The city has faced persistent issues with gang activity and drug distribution networks that use the location to their advantage. The city recently received a crime and safety grade of D- 403 from data analysts, reflecting the severity of the violent and property crimes reported.

Despite these challenges, there are pockets of the city that remain peaceful and family-oriented, trying to hold the line against the encroaching disorder. Local officials are constantly trying new strategies, from community policing to stricter sentencing, to curb the violence. It remains a city with potential, but it is currently held back by a crime rate that scares away new businesses and families.

Globe, Arizona

Globe is a historic mining town with a rugged past, and today it faces a modern struggle with high rates of property crime. The isolation of the town can sometimes mean fewer resources for addiction treatment, which feeds into the cycle of theft and break-ins. SafeHome.org shows a property crime rate of 3,997 per 100,000 people, which is the second highest in Arizona and a major concern for residents.

The stunning desert backdrop hides the daily frustrations of people who are tired of losing their belongings to opportunistic thieves. Neighbors look out for each other, often posting warnings on social media to keep the community alert and safe. It is a tough town filled with tough people, but the relentless property crime is wearing down the patience of even the most dedicated locals.

Anniston, Alabama

Anniston is known for its beautiful mountains and history, but it is also known for having one of the highest crime rates in the state. The town has seen a decline in heavy industry, and the resulting economic gap has contributed to a rise in both assaults and robberies. You have to be vigilant here, as the violent crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, putting a strain on the local police force.

Community meetings are frequent, with passionate debates on how to solve the issues of gun violence and theft that plague specific neighborhoods. There is a strong desire to turn things around, especially to protect the younger generation growing up in the area. The people here are resilient and proud, but they are tired of seeing their hometown appear on lists that highlight danger rather than progress.

Prichard, Alabama

Prichard has faced difficult financial times for decades, and the lack of funds has directly impacted the ability to fight crime effectively. The town has struggled with high homicide rates and violent assaults that have left many residents feeling abandoned by the system. Neighbourhood Scout statistics indicate a violent crime rate of roughly 12.38 per 1,000 residents, a number that reflects the intense daily challenges the community faces.

Despite the grim numbers, there are church groups and nonprofits working tirelessly on the ground to provide safe spaces for kids. The sense of community is surprisingly tight, born out of a shared necessity to survive and look out for one another. It is a heartbreaking example of how economic hardship can devastate safety, yet the hope for a better tomorrow remains alive in the people.

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