In Missouri, just like anywhere else, finding a safe and secure neighbourhood is crucial when it comes to raising a family or planning a vacation. Comfort and peace of mind go hand in hand, and that’s why it’s important to take the time to research and locate the right neighbourhoods that offer the security you need.
Although Missouri is home to many safe places, there are several cities and towns with high rates of crime that can potentially spoil a vacation or even endanger one’s life.
According to Infoplease and the World Population Review, Missouri has been ranked as the seventh most dangerous state.
When planning a trip to Missouri or considering moving to this state, it is crucial to be aware of the cities that may pose a higher risk to your safety.
Continue reading for further information!
10 Cities in Missouri Where Crime Rates are the Highest
10. Bellefontaine Neighbors
Bellefontaine Neighbors, a suburb of St. Louis and the second smallest town on this list experienced a total of 1,021 crimes in 2020. This translates to 98.59 offences per 1,000 people.
Crimes such as robbery, vehicle theft, property destruction, and aggravated assault were the main offences committed.
In comparison to other bigger cities in the state, Bellefontaine Neighbors was deemed to be more hazardous.
According to recent statistics, property damage has maintained a stable level over the years. However, the incidents of violent crime have seen a significant surge in 2020, primarily due to aggravated assault.
In 2019, the number of aggravated assault cases recorded was the highest ever. However, in 2020, there was an 80-case increase in the number of such cases, marking a significant rise compared to the previous year.
The poverty rate of 20.4% and a murder rate of 0.19 per 1,000 residents are also significant figures to consider.
9. Carthage
Carthage, a small town in Jasper County with a population of just under 15,000 residents, is renowned for its peaceful and safe environment. Despite having a murder rate of 0.0 incidences, Carthage is not only a great place to live in but also an ideal location to raise a family.
Despite its nickname as “America’s Maple Leaf City,” the place has a notorious reputation for having one of the highest crime rates in the state.
According to the statistics, there were 100.78 incidents of crime per 1,000 residents, with drug-related crimes being the most common. However, other types of crimes, including property and violent crimes, were also prevalent.
City history witnessed the third-highest occurrence of violent crime in the year 2020, while property crime remained above average.
Carthage has a poverty rate of 26.6%.
8. St. Joseph
Located in Buchanan County on the western side of the state, St. Joseph is a charming mid-sized city that attracts visitors with its outdoor festivals, stunning architecture, and rich history.
Despite its many merits, it cannot be ignored that the area also struggles with one of the highest crime rates in the state.
St. Joseph, a city with a population of 74,680, has seen a total of 8,002 reported crimes, with a rate of 107.15 crimes per 1000 residents.
Since the mid-1990s, there has been a significant increase in violent crime within the city, although property crime rates have remained relatively stable over time.
With a median household income of $53,000, the community boasts a respectable standard of living. However, the poverty rate of 15.2% indicates that there are still some challenges to be addressed in ensuring economic stability for all members of the community.
7. The Union
Nestled in the centre of Franklin County lies Union, Missouri, a charming town with a population of approximately 12,000 people. The town boasts of a zero percent murder rate and a significantly low poverty rate of 11.3%, making it an ideal place to call home.
Although the numbers might appear attractive at first glance, the overall crime rate stood at 108.32 incidents per 1,000 residents, with theft, property destruction, and assaults being the most common occurrences.
Over the past twenty years, there has been a noticeable rise in both violent and property crimes. Shockingly, violent crime has reached its second-highest peak since the year 2009.
6. Rolla
Rolla, a charming town located near the iconic Route 66, boasts a population of approximately 20,500 residents and is situated in Phelps County.
Rolla, situated in Missouri, is known for its vibrant history and remarkable outdoor experiences, which are made possible by the fascinating caves, waterways, and forests in its vicinity.
Regrettably, Rolla had a report of 110.17 crimes per 1,000 inhabitants, out of which 116 were violent, marking the second-highest number of violent crimes in the city’s history.
Since the 1980s, there has been a surge in violent crime, primarily due to aggravated assault. While there have been decreases or steady rates in other types of incidents, the number of violent crimes has continued to rise.
In addition, there has been an increase in property crime, where the number of cases has reached 867, which marks the highest count since 2010.
5. Kansas City
Kansas City, with a population of almost 500,000, is renowned for its barbecue, growing art culture, and rich jazz heritage.
Kansas City is a lively and vibrant community renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population. This bustling city in the heart of the state is home to people from all walks of life, making it a true melting pot of cultures and traditions.
However, even with its positive qualities, the city has managed to secure the fifth spot on the list of most dangerous places in Missouri.
In 2020, the crime rate soared to 94.54 per 1,000 individuals, marking a significant increase in criminal activity. Shockingly, there were 176 reported murders, which is the highest number of homicides since 1985.
North Kansas City alone has a shocking crime rate of 246.37 incidences per 1,000 people. This figure primarily consists of vehicle theft, arson, robbery, and burglary.
4. Kennett
This small town, with a population of only 10,000 inhabitants, is often overlooked by Americans, and even residents of Missouri may not be familiar with it.
Kennett, situated in Missouri’s bootheel area, boasts a family-friendly vibe and a top-notch school system. However, the community still grapples with the issue of crime, which serves as a significant concern.
Despite the small town population, the crime rate in the area is high, with 125.14 incidences per 1,000 individuals. Though there may not be a large number of crimes, the rate at which they occur is concerning.
According to recent data, property crime rates have hit their lowest point since 2012. However, the same cannot be said for violent crime, which has unfortunately risen to the third-highest level since 2003. Shockingly, there have been 90 reported incidents of violent crime.
There was a significant rise in aggravated assaults, which was the primary contributor to the overall increase.
3. Joplin
Joplin, situated in the southwestern region of Missouri, holds the position of the fifth-largest metropolitan area in the state. The city has a crime rate of 137.33 crimes per 1,000 residents, making it essential to take precautions to ensure safety.
According to recent statistics, this town of 51,000 people experienced a total of 3,276 incidents, which included theft, robbery, burglary, and arson. It is worth noting that this figure represents the second-lowest rate since 2010.
While Joplin has witnessed a decline in property crimes, it has unfortunately seen a surge in violent crimes, reaching their peak since the year 2010.
Over the past decade, the maximum murder rate per year was three. However, it has now increased to nine, indicating a significant rise in violent crime.
2. St. Louis
St. Louis is renowned as the Gateway to the West, and it’s easily recognizable by the iconic Gateway Arch. This makes it one of the top destinations in the United States.
Regrettably, a portion of the recognition obtained by the place is attributed to its elevated incidence of criminal activities.
The city has a relatively high crime rate, with a 1-in-50 chance of becoming a victim of a crime, whether you are a visitor or a resident.
According to recent statistics, Missouri has the highest murder rate with 0.87 per 1,000 residents. Shockingly, there were 6,017 violent crimes reported in a city with a population slightly over 300,000 residents. These numbers are alarming and call for immediate action to ensure the safety of the people living in Missouri.
Over the past decade, violent crime rates have been consistent. However, the number of murders in 2020 has surged to 263, marking a significant 36% rise from the previous year.
1. Springfield
Taking the top spot on the list is Springfield, a dynamic mid-sized city renowned for its vibrant cultural landscape and consistent employment opportunities. This makes it a highly sought-after location for young college graduates seeking to establish themselves in a thriving community.
Regrettably, the city known as Queen City o the Ozarks is also infamous for having the highest crime rate in the state and one of the worst in the entire United States.
In the United States, Springfield has been designated as the fifth most dangerous city for the year 2021.
According to statistics, the general rate of crime in the area stands at 144.56 incidences per 1,000 individuals, which is quite alarming. This means that residents have a rather high probability of becoming a victim, with a chance of 1 in 8. It is essential to take necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of oneself and their loved ones in such an environment.
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