Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Ohio
Ohio, with its stunning state parks and bustling urban centers, offers a diverse landscape. However, alongside its beauty, the state faces challenges in certain areas. As of 2023, Ohio, with a population of 11.76 million, ranks 30th in crime among U.S. states and the District of Columbia, placing it in the lower 59 percent. Unfortunately, Ohio has had a presence on the list of the 50 most dangerous cities in the United States, according to the FBI. Here are the ten most dangerous cities in Ohio that you should be aware of:
1. Canton, Ohio
Population: 70,124
Canton kicks off our list as the most dangerous city in Ohio for 2023. It's located about 20 miles south of Akron. Canton faces challenges with the third-highest burglary rate in the state. In 2020, residents had a 1 in 20 chance of falling victim to a property crime. Additionally, Canton experienced the third-highest rate of rape cases in the state, contributing to its overall high violent crime rate.
2. Moraine, Ohio
Population: 6,478
Part of the Dayton Metro Area, Moraine is the second most unsafe place to live in Ohio. It had the second-highest overall crime rate in Ohio in 2020, primarily due to the second-highest rate of property crime. Moraine also faced challenges with the 14th highest murder rate in the state.
3. Cleveland, Ohio
Population: 379,121
Cleveland, Ohio's second most populous city, is known for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame but also ranks among the riskiest places to live. In 2020, Cleveland had the highest violent crime rate in Ohio, including the highest murder rate and the ninth-highest rate of rape cases. Property crime rates in Cleveland are also a concern, though the city still has many safe neighborhoods.
4. Springfield, Ohio
Population: 58,696
Springfield, located northeast of Dayton, is the fourth most dangerous city in Ohio. It faced approximately two burglaries per day in 2020, resulting in the second-highest burglary rate in the state. Overall, Springfield residents had a 1 in 19 chance of experiencing theft or property damage.
5. Portsmouth, Ohio
Population: 20,151
Portsmouth, situated in the south-central part of Ohio, across the river from Kentucky, has faced economic challenges leading to a rise in crime. Notably, burglaries are a concern, with 177 incidents reported in a year.
6. Dayton, Ohio
Population: 140,193
Dayton, Ohio's sixth-largest city, struggled with a high burglary rate in 2020, averaging about two car thefts per day. Violent crime, including murder and rape, is also prevalent in Dayton, contributing to its overall crime rate.
7. Whitehall, Ohio
Population: 19,014
Whitehall, a Columbus suburb, faces challenges with high violent crime rates and property crime rates. Notably, the city ranks 24th in murder rate, which equates to a murder every other month for its population.
8. Mount Healthy, Ohio
Population: 6,729
Mount Healthy, another Cincinnati suburb, experiences significant property crime rates, ranking as the 15th highest in Ohio. In 2020, residents had a 1 in 26 chance of experiencing theft or property damage.
9. Cincinnati, Ohio
Population: 304,724
Cincinnati, despite its famous zoo, faces challenges with high violent crime rates. It had the third-highest murder rate in Ohio in 2020, averaging over one murder per week. Residents had a 1 in 112 chance of being assaulted over the year.
10. Akron, Ohio
Population: 197,433
Akron, known for producing celebrities like LeBron James and Stephen Curry, faces issues like high poverty rates and crime. It ranks as the tenth most dangerous place in Ohio, with high rates of arson, car thefts, and violent crimes.
While Ohio has vibrant cities and natural beauty, it's crucial to be aware of these high-crime areas when planning your next move or visit.