A recent report published by Statista in July 2024 sheds light on the pervasive issue of urban violence in the United States. The study analyzes data from 2022, ranking cities based on their violent crime rates per 100,000 residents. This article enumerates America’s top 10 most dangerous cities, presenting a sobering picture of public safety concerns in these metropolitan areas.
1. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis tops the list as America’s most dangerous city, with a violent crime rate of 2,420.86 per 100,000 residents. This alarming statistic underscores the significant public safety challenges facing the city. Local authorities have implemented various initiatives to address the issue, including increased police presence and community outreach programs.
2. Detroit, Michigan
Detroit comes in second with a violent crime rate that stands at 2,027.9 incidents per 100,000 residents. Michigan’s largest city grapples with this troubling reality of crime that affects its communities. The city’s streets, lined with a mix of abandoned buildings and pockets of revitalization, reflect the complex socioeconomic factors contributing to its safety issues.
3. Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock is in third place with a violent crime rate of 1,833.13 per 100,000 residents. This high rate places Arkansas’s capital city among the most dangerous urban areas in the US, despite its relatively small population compared to larger metropolitan areas. Local law enforcement agencies have implemented various strategies to combat crime, including community policing initiatives and youth outreach programs.
4. Cleveland, Ohio
At fourth place is Cleveland, with a violent crime rate of 1,613.68 per 100,000 residents. The city continues to work on improving public safety across its diverse neighborhoods. Local authorities are implementing various strategies to address crime hotspots and underlying causes. Community policing initiatives and youth programs are among the efforts being pursued to reduce violent crime.
5. Tacoma, Washington
Tacoma, Washington, is in fifth place, with 1,609.85 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. This Pacific Northwest city has seen a rise in gang-related activities and drug crimes in recent years. Local authorities and community organizations are working to address these issues through efforts like youth intervention programs and increased police presence in high-crime areas.
6. Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore’s violent crime rate has reached 1,553.07 per 100,000 people in 2022. This statistic highlights the ongoing safety challenges in Maryland’s largest city. Baltimore struggles with gang activity and drug-related crimes. Despite efforts to improve, the city faces persistent issues in reducing violence.
7. Oakland, California
Oakland’s violent crime rate is at 1,521.1 crimes per 100,000 residents. This California city faces significant public safety challenges. Gang activity and property crimes are major concerns. Local initiatives aim to reduce violence and improve community relations. The city’s diverse neighborhoods struggle with economic disparities, contributing to ongoing safety issues.
8. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee reports a violent crime rate of 1,508.52 incidents per 100,000 residents. This Wisconsin city struggles with high levels of urban violence. Poverty and racial disparities contribute to crime issues. Community programs work to address root causes of violence in the city.
9. Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri, reports 1,481.36 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. This Midwestern city faces significant public safety challenges. Gang activity and drug-related crimes are ongoing issues. Community policing efforts aim to reduce violence in the city and build trust.
10. St. Louis, Missouri
Rounding out the top 10 most dangerous cities, St. Louis reports a violent crime rate of 1,472.45 per 100,000 people. This Missouri city struggles with persistent urban violence. Poverty and segregation contribute to crime issues. Community initiatives work to reduce violence in the area.
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