One big consideration when deciding where to live, work or travel USA in March is safety. Although a number of cities in the United States provide a high quality of living, some have higher crime rates making them unsafe. This blog dives into the crime rates, closest to the hardest hit most dangerous cities in the United States and what measures have been put in place for better safety.

Crime rates fluctuate depending on multiple variables, including poverty, unemployment, and social instability. In some cities, law enforcement is trying with all its might to bring down crime, but those problems run deep. Here we have 15 cities, in no particular order, that consistently rank as the highest crime rate cities in the country.

1. Memphis, Tennessee

Due to its high rates of assaults and homicides, Memphis has historically ranked among the most dangerous cities in the US. The city has experienced an alarming rise in carjackings and property crimes in recent years.

Crime is still rampant despite local anti-crime measures and development efforts, especially by gangs and drug offenses. The Memphis Police Department has launched several initiatives to address violence, such as community policing strategies and heightened surveillance in crime-plagued neighborhoods. But economic hardships, including a high poverty rate, persist as drivers of crime. Memphis is also one of the cities with the Lowest Cost of Living Cities in the USA, so even amid higher crime rates, you can still live relatively affordably.

2. St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis has been known for years as one of most dangerous cities in America, with its notoriously high rate of violent crime. Crime in the city is largely confined to certain neighborhoods where poverty and unemployment are high.

Homicides and aggravated assaults are of special concern in St. Louis, where many residents have fled to safer suburbs regardless of the low Cost of Living in the USA. However, the city has invested in crime prevention programs, hoping to improve law enforcement responses and provide more jobs for at-risk youth.

3. Detroit, Michigan

The city of Detroit has long struggled with crime problems stemming from economic decline and industrial collapse. It used to be an automotive powerhouse, but the city fell on hard times and crime rose.

The Detroit Police Department has focused on enhancing safety by adding patrols and deploying new technology to monitor areas where violent crime is high. Even after all these solutions, Detroit is still among the cities with highest crime rates, with car thefts, burglaries and violent crimes being a common occurrence.

4. Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham is a city with a significant amount of crime affecting its residents, with robbery, violent crime, and assault being some of the top crimes in the area. Some of the factors driving crime in this Southern city include economic strife and a lack of educational opportunities.

A crime awareness community project based in Birmingham has made advances in some areas, although law enforcement agencies continue to struggle with taming gang-related activity. And the city is still a cultural center with a storied past and a booming employment sector despite its issues with crime.

5. Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock regularly makes to the list of the most dangerous cities in US because of its high rate of violent crime. The city’s homicide rate had been worrying to law enforcement, with gang activity responsible for a lot of the bloodshed.

Community leaders are striving for safety improvements by providing programs for young people and tax breaks for businesses. But crime is still a real problem in some neighborhoods.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Though New Orleans is a mecca for music and culture, it has also been ranked among the cities in the country with the highest crime rate cities. There is some level of concern over violent crime such as armed robberies, and homicides.

The city’s tourism economy provides jobs, but income inequality still has a role to play in crime rates.

7. Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland is viewed as one of the most dangerous cities in America with a violent history. In Cleveland, most crimes result from poverty and drug activities.

To tackle the economic malaise, the city has initiated programs to help failing areas, even as many residents remain suspicious, believing that providing more job opportunities will combat crime. However, crime rates are still high, especially in some districts.

8. Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City has its barbecue and jazz culture, but it suffers from high crime rates, as well. The city’s rates of homicide are among the highest in the nation, and gun violence has become a major challenge.

Though there have been a lot of efforts to reduce crime, including increased law enforcement presence and investment in community programs, there haven’t been any lasting results. So, violent crime continues to be a problem, making it among the most dangerous cities in the United States.

9. Stockton, California

For years, Stockton has grappled with crime, particularly gang-related violence. Although safety has been enhanced in the city, violent crimes, including shootings and robberies, are still a big issue.

The local government has implemented crime-reduction programs and economic initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of violence. But Stockton remains one of the most dangerous cities in America.

10. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque has experienced a surge in violent crime, especially carjackings and homicides. The city’s crime issues are connected to poverty and drug addiction.

The Albuquerque Police Department has been attempting new approaches to curb crime, though progress has been slow. People are still calling for improved safety so that the city can be a safer place to reside.

11. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

It has one of the highest rates of violent crime in the Midwest. A lot of crime is associated with gangs and drug trafficking.

And though the city is pouring resources into efforts to stop crime, economic woes continue to stoke the violence. Milwaukee is a dangerous city in the US, a public safety nightmare, with cops on the tail of criminals.

12. Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore has struggled with crime for decades, and violent crime has long been a concern in the city, including shootings and robberies. The city has battled gang violence and a high homicide rate.

However, crime is still a huge problem, despite the attempts to reform policing and community engagement. Baltimore remains one of the most dangerous cities in America.

13. Oakland, California

Oakland has some major crime issues, particularly violent crimes like robbery and assault. City life has a great culture and good business, but certain neighborhoods are unsafe.

Some areas have implemented crime prevention measures, and police presence has increased in abandoned areas.

14. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa has experienced a rise in violent crime over the years, establishing itself among the most dangerous cities in the United States. Homicides and aggravated assaults continue to be a concern.

Law enforcement agencies are developing strategies to curb the violence, but obstacles remain. They are working to reduce crime in neighborhoods known for high crime rates through community engagement efforts.

15. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Crime in Minneapolis has risen especially gun violence and theft. The city has a reputation for a booming economy, but crime is an ongoing problem.

The attempts to make the situation safer have included more policing and community-led initiatives. Yet, many neighbourhoods within Minneapolis remain plagued by crime.

Things to Make Sure When Visiting These Places

If you’re thinking of visiting one of those most dangerous cities in America, a few extra precautions can help keep you safe! Some safety tips that are less commonly discussed include:

1. Stay Away from Lonely Places After Dark – Most crimes happen in deserted streets and poorly lit places. So when walking, don’t be alone and stick to busy and well-lit areas, particularly when night falls.

2. Use Rideshare or Public Transport Wisely – If you’re using Uber, Lyft or taxis, confirm the driver’s information before entering. If you are using public transport, stay alert.

3. Blend In with the Locals – Tourists make easy-bait targets. Cover flash jewelry, expensive gadgets, or anything that makes you stand out like an outsider.

4. Know Emergency Contact Points – Before going out, know the nearest police stations, hospitals, and emergency numbers in the city you’re visiting.

5. Stay In Safe Locations - When booking your otels or Airbnbs, book based on safer neighborhoods, even if it’s a little pricier. And be sure to look at current reviews for any safety issues.

6. ATMs – Use ATMs in areas that are well lit and secure, such as banks. Standalone machines in dark or desolate areas should be avoided.

7. Be Aware of Common Scams – In many high-crime cities there also exist scams targeting travelers, like counterfeit parking attendants, street distractions (pickpockets) or annoying panhandlers.

Conclusion

But these cities are not simply struggling with crime; they are often striving to enhance safety and reduce violence. The combination of economic development, community engagement and law enforcement strategies is critical in making these places safer.

Before traveling, it is important to do research and find out if it is safe to visit the USA in March for anyone who is planning on coming.