Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Maryland
Maryland, a state with diverse communities and landscapes, faces varying crime challenges across its cities. While it's challenging to pinpoint the exact causes of high crime rates, factors like job scarcity, low wages, criminal populations from nearby prisons, drug issues, gang activities, and proximity to larger cities can contribute. Let's delve into the data and discover Maryland's 10 most dangerous cities for 2023:
1. Ocean City
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Population: 6,905
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 1,317
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Property Crimes per 100k: 10,427
Surprisingly, Ocean City, a popular tourist destination, ranks as Maryland's most dangerous city. While the influx of eight million annual tourists inflates the "crime per capita" statistics, the city has the highest rate of property crime in Maryland. Residents have a 1 in 9 chance of experiencing theft or property damage.
2. Elkton
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Population: 15,662
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 964
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Property Crimes per 100k: 6,633
Elkton, known as "The Elopement Capital of the East Coast," faces high crime rates. In 2020, the city reported 877 cases of larceny and approximately one car theft per week on average. Elkton also ranks fourth in the state for violent crimes.
3. Cambridge
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Population: 12,264
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 970
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Property Crimes per 100k: 5,373
Cambridge, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, is Maryland's third most dangerous city. In 2020, it reported the highest rate of rape cases in the state, nearly one per month. Additionally, the city reported two murders and ranks third for overall violent crime. Despite its mile-long boardwalk, caution is advised due to its fourth-highest property crime rate.
4. Baltimore
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Population: 597,239
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 1,858
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Property Crimes per 100k: 4,311
Baltimore, nicknamed "Bodymore, Murderland," has a reputation for violent crime. In 2020, it reported 348 murders, earning it the highest murder rate in Maryland. However, Baltimore is a large city with safe neighborhoods, but vigilance is essential, as it reported 25,748 property crimes in 2020.
5. Cumberland
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Population: 19,321
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 781
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Property Crimes per 100k: 4,497
Cumberland, known for the Great Allegheny Passage, faces challenges. Residents had a 1 in 22 chance of being victims of property crime in 2020, marking the state's third-highest burglary rate. Its metro area also struggles with low per capita income, potentially contributing to high crime rates.
6. Salisbury
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Population: 32,988
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 735
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Property Crimes per 100k: 4,296
Salisbury, located on Maryland's Eastern Shore, presents a deceptive exterior. In 2020, it ranked seventh for violent crime, with residents having a 1 in 136 chance of experiencing a violent act. Property crime also poses concerns, constituting a significant portion of the city's total crime.
7. Bladensburg
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Population: 9,371
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 930
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Property Crimes per 100k: 4,235
Bladensburg, just outside the capital, faces high violent crime rates. Residents have a 1 in 107 chance of being victims, and property crime rates are also troubling, with a 1 in 24 chance of falling victim. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., adds allure but comes with crime challenges.
8. Hyattsville
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Population: 18,242
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 680
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Property Crimes per 100k: 3,840
Hyattsville, on the outskirts of Washington D.C., grapples with significant property crime rates. Residents have a 1 in 26 chance of becoming victims. While violent crime rates are lower than in other cities on this list, property crime remains a concern.
9. Hagerstown
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Population: 40,152
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 652
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Property Crimes per 100k: 4,165
Hagerstown, situated in Washington County, offers an arts scene and picturesque parks. However, high property crime rates are a concern, with a 1 in 24 chance of being a victim. Residents have good reason to invest in home security systems.
10. Aberdeen
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Population: 16,053
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Violent Crimes per 100k: 618
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Property Crimes per 100k: 3,487
Aberdeen, known for the Aberdeen Proving Ground, faces high crime rates. While its violent crime rate is comparatively lower, property crime remains a concern, with residents having a 1 in 29 chance of falling victim.
These cities grapple with varying crime challenges, and community efforts remain crucial in addressing these issues and fostering safer environments in Maryland.