Ohio is home to several bustling cities that are famous for their stunning skyline, rich cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. While many of these cities are fantastic places to live and work in, some areas pose a significant risk to public safety. From high crime rates to rampant gang violence, several Ohio cities have earned a reputation as the most dangerous in the state.
To determine the most dangerous cities in Ohio, we used crime statistics from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program and data from local law enforcement agencies. This article will delve into the cities with the highest rates of crime in Ohio and examine the factors that contribute to their high levels of criminal activity.
With a population of nearly 380,000 people, Cleveland is one of Ohio’s largest cities and a significant economic hub. However, despite its status as a vital metropolitan center, Cleveland has one of the highest crime rates in the state.
According to FBI statistics, Cleveland has a violent crime rate of 1,329.4 incidents per 100,000 people, well above the national average. In 2020 alone, Cleveland saw 195 murders, a 30% increase from the previous year, and 596 reported rapes. The city also saw more than 2,300 reported robberies, over 3,600 aggravated assaults, and 5,300 burglaries.
The factors contributing to Cleveland’s high crime rates are many, but some of the most significant include high unemployment rates, widespread poverty, and gang violence. The city has long struggled with a reputation for drug trafficking and organized crime, leading to the proliferation of gangs in the area.
Another city on the list of Ohio’s most dangerous places is Dayton, a city with a population of over 140,000 residents. In 2020, Dayton had a violent crime rate of 828 incidents per 100,000 people, making it one of the riskiest cities in the state.
The FBI reported 45 murders in Dayton in 2020, and the city had a reported 422 rapes, over 900 robberies, 845 aggravated assaults, and more than 2,600 burglaries. Much like Cleveland, poverty and gang activity are contributing factors to the high levels of crime in Dayton. In recent years, the city has seen a rise in gun violence, making it even more perilous for residents.
Cincinnati is another major Ohio city known for its lively downtown district, thriving arts scene, and stunning skyline. However, the city’s idyllic exterior masks an unsettling reality, as Cincinnati is one of the most dangerous places in Ohio.
In 2020, Cincinnati had a violent crime rate of 808.7 incidents per 100,000 people, which included 83 murders, 308 reported rapes, more than 1,000 robberies, 976 aggravated assaults, and 2,324 burglaries.
Toledo, a city located in northwest Ohio, is another city that has struggled with a high crime rate in recent years. The city has a higher crime rate than the national average, and its violent crime rate is nearly four times higher than the national average. Toledo has been listed as one of the most dangerous cities in Ohio, and residents and visitors have been warned to stay away from certain areas.
Located in Northeast Ohio, Youngstown is a small city with a population of about 65,000 people. Unfortunately, Youngstown has struggled with a high crime rate for several years. According to Area Vibes, Youngstown has a crime rate that is about 91% higher than the national average. Youngstown residents have cited gang activity and drug-related violence as some of the main causes of the city’s high crime rate.
In conclusion, Ohio, like any other state in the United States, has areas that struggle with a high crime rate. The cities mentioned in this article have been listed as some of the most dangerous cities to avoid in Ohio according to statistics. However, it’s important to note that not all areas of these cities are dangerous, and visitors and residents can still enjoy a safe experience by avoiding certain areas and taking necessary precautions.