Lisa O
If you are thinking of settling or traveling to any city in the US, you need to know that there are places that you should avoid at all costs. Although each city has its own downsides, there are those that stand out for being considered the most dangerous or unhealthy for living. Let’s explore 15 cities in the US that you’d better stay far away from.
Detroit, Michigan
Imagine a place where there are more abandoned factories and homes than functioning businesses and jobs. Now, imagine gunshots ringing through the streets at night. This is the day-to-day life for many of the remaining Detroit residents who have suffered from the effects of the declining auto industry. With a violent crime rate 85% higher than the national average, Detroit is a place that you might like to visit but definitely not a place you should live.
Baltimore, Maryland
The harbor views and crab cakes are legendary in Baltimore, but this blue-collar town has a lot of problems hiding underneath its surface. The homicide rate is higher than in most war-torn countries, and the drug abuse problems show no sign of abating. Unless you enjoyed the TV show, “The Wire,” you should probably avoid this city.
Memphis, Tennessee
If you like the blues, Memphis is the place to be! The city is known as the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock and roll. However, these days, the only music you’ll hear is the wail of police sirens as they rush to the latest crime scene. The violent crime rate is over three times the national average, and the poverty level is greater than the Empire State Building’s height.
Oakland, California
The birthplace of the Black Panther Party and home to many legendary activists, Oakland was one of America’s most culturally diverse cities. However, the crime rate is over two times the national average, and gentrification has pushed the poverty-stricken and working class out of the city limits. Unless you’re a tech bro with a trust fund, California has plenty of other places to “dream” about.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
The breathtaking desert scenery of Albuquerque may invite tourists and thrill-seekers alike to explore the great outdoors, but at a crime rate of 1.36%, this town is not for the cautious. Property crime, auto theft, and aggravated assault light up the statistics of this beautiful city, with 14 out of every 1,000 residents being exposed to crime on average. There are hot air balloons everywhere but try to keep both of your feet on the ground.
Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but these days, the only thing that rocks in Cleveland is the crime rate. The poverty level is greater than the height of most classic rock bands’ hair, and the unemployment rate is higher than most sad ballads. Unless you’re a big Browns fan, this place hasn’t rocked in decades.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Imagine walking through Milwaukee, taking in the beautiful architecture and rich atmosphere. As you round the corner, though, you notice something just isn’t right. The fact is, Milwaukee gets pretty dark, and there’s no ignoring it. The violent crime rate is above most other cities in the country, so be sure you stay guarded and take appropriate precautions while checking out this Midwestern hub.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is filled with deep-dish pizza and architectural marvels, but it also has a crime rate that will keep you on your toes. From gang-related violence to random gun violence and theft, there are a number of things that could go wrong in this bustling metropolis. There are some great places to visit in Chicago, but you’ll need to keep your wits if you decide to take a trip to the Windy City.
Tucson, Arizona
Tucson is a desert hotspot for never-ending adventure and scenic beauty. But in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, there’s a city struggling with a crime epidemic. Petty to armed theft, Tucson is no safe paradise for nature lovers, as there is no escape from the looming threat of being a victim of crime. It’s a reality that many must accept before their desert vacation.
Rockford, Illinois
Rockford was once a booming center for manufacturing, but these days, its citizens are suffering from the consequences of the hard times. The crime rate is higher than in most factory whistles, and the job opportunities are colder than in a Midwest winter. This city is a huge example of the troubles the heart of America is facing, and until a change comes, Rockford should be avoided.
St. Louis, Missouri
While St. Louis has the famous Gateway Arch, it also has one of the highest rates of violent crime in the nation. The murder rate is over ten times the national average, and the poverty level is around 15%. The city has not been named the same since the days of Westward Expansion, and unless you’re a big Cardinals fan, it’s a place you shouldn’t get caught up in.
San Bernardino, California
San Bernardino may be only an hour east of Los Angeles, but this inland city is worlds away from the Hollywood glam. The crime rate is higher than most red-carpet wardrobe malfunctions, and the economy is lower than most box office openings. San Bernardino is definitely a city to appreciate from a distance.
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City is a metropolitan area that beats to the rhythm of jazz music and the smell of world-famous barbecue. But there’s a dark rhythm happening on the streets of this Missouri city. A high crime rate is always on the menu, ready to spoil anyone’s day. It’s a reality that even in the heart of a friendly and welcoming city, precautions must be taken at all times.
New Orleans, Louisiana
There’s a lot of color in the Big Easy. The streets are filled with jazz music and the aroma of delicious gumbo. But be careful because in between the festive Mardi Gras Mardi Gras and rich culture, there is crime on every corner. Armed robbery, assault, and even homicide are commonplace in this city, putting a dark cloud over the otherwise magical atmosphere.
Houston, Texas
Houston is a city that always aims for the stars, with its huge space center and innovative atmosphere. But despite pushing the limits of human knowledge and exploration, crime is something Houston just can’t seem to leave behind. The diverse community and spread-out nature of this metropolitan area create a unique landscape for criminals to operate in and for ordinary people to be victimized.