Tennessee has long been associated with its rich country music heritage and breathtaking Appalachian vistas. However, this has resulted in a surge of population growth and transformation in the state, consequently leading to a rise in criminal activities.
You may be taken aback to discover that Tennessee frequently appears in the top 10 list of America’s most perilous states. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the areas in Tennessee that are considered the most hazardous to live in.
10 Most Dangerous Cities in Tennessee
1. Dyersburg
Dyersburg, a city in Tennessee, has gained a notorious reputation for being the most dangerous city in the state. With a population of 16,164, the city’s crime rate is an alarming 244% higher than the national average. Dyersburg has a total crime rate of 8,073 per 100,000, and residents have a 1 in 13 chance of falling victim to any type of crime. Shockingly, violent crimes are prevalent in the city, and property crimes occur at an even higher rate. In 2022, assault, theft, and burglary remained the most common types of crimes reported in Dyersburg.
2. Memphis
According to statistics, Memphis is renowned for being one of the most hazardous cities in Tennessee. It has the unenviable distinction of being the most perilous large city in the United States. With a population of over 633,104 residents, Memphis has a crime rate of 7,913 per 100,000 people, which is a staggering 237% higher than the national average. Shockingly, Memphis residents have a 1 in 14 chance of falling prey to any type of crime. Violent crime is a significant problem in Memphis, with over 300 murders reported in 2021. Property crimes, such as burglary and vehicle theft, remain a persistent problem, with an average of over 5,000 cases reported each year.
3. Chattanooga
Located in Hamilton County within the Appalachian foothills, Chattanooga is considered one of the most perilous places in Tennessee. With a population of 181,100, the city has a total crime rate of 7,716 per 100,000, which is significantly higher than the national average by 229%. This means that residents in this area have a 1 in 16 chance of becoming a victim of any type of crime. Shockingly, there were 33 murders, 193 robberies, and 2,108 assaults reported in 2021 alone.
4. Nashville
Despite being the capital of Tennessee, Nashville is not immune to crime. Although it may not be the most dangerous city in the state, it still faces high crime rates. With a population of 689,447 and a steady influx of visitors who come to enjoy the city’s renowned music venues and nightlife, Nashville has a total crime rate of 5,229 per 100,000. This figure is 123% higher than the national average, and residents have a 1 in 19 chance of falling victim to any type of crime. Tourists should remain vigilant, as pickpocketing and theft can occur even in popular areas, while violent crime is more prevalent in specific neighborhoods.
5. Kingsport
With a population of 55,442, Kingsport is a city located in Sullivan and Hawkins counties. However, the city’s crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, with a total of 5,157 crimes per 100,000 residents. This means that the chances of becoming a victim of any type of crime in Kingsport are 1 in 20. Shockingly, in 2021 alone, there were 413 reported cases of violent crimes and 2,102 cases of non-violent crimes in the city.
6. Knoxville
Knoxville, with a population of 190,740, is the third-largest city in Tennessee. Unfortunately, the total crime rate in this city is 5,038 per 100,000, which is 115% higher than the national average. In 2021 alone, the city reported 1,595 violent crimes and 7,850 property crimes. The most common types of crime reported were assault, burglary, and vehicle theft.
7. Crossville
Crossville, situated within the boundaries of Cumberland County, is home to approximately 12,071 residents. In terms of crime statistics, Crossville exhibits a notable rate of 4,670 incidents per 100,000 people, surpassing the national average by a significant 99% and the state of Tennessee’s average by 48%. This data implies that individuals residing in Crossville face a 1 in 22 probability of falling victim to various types of criminal activities. To provide a snapshot of recent crime figures, 2022 witnessed two homicides, 31 reported robberies, and 356 reported assaults within the city.
8. Johnson City
Situated in the eastern region of Tennessee, Johnson City grapples with elevated levels of criminal activity and violence. With a population of 71,046, the city experiences a total crime rate of 4,477 incidents per 100,000 residents, a figure that surpasses the national average by 91%. This means that residents of Johnson City face a 1 in 23 probability of falling victim to various forms of criminal acts. In the year 2021, Johnson City documented five homicides, 38 cases of robbery, and 179 instances of assault. Additionally, the city reported 2,282 property crimes during the same period.
9. Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro, situated in the heart of Rutherford County, Tennessee, is notable for its elevated crime rates. This city, with a population of 152,769, serves as the county seat. While Murfreesboro’s total crime rate of 2,973 incidents per 100,000 residents is 6% below the state’s average, it surpasses the national average by 27%. In the year 2021, the city witnessed a concerning number of criminal incidents, including 633 violent crimes and 3,532 property crimes. Notably, this tally included seven homicides, 53 robberies, and 453 assaults within the same timeframe.
10. Clarksville
Situated in the northwestern region of Tennessee within Montgomery County, Clarksville is home to a population of 166,722 residents. The city exhibits a total crime rate of 2,853 incidents per 100,000 people, marking a 22% increase compared to the national average in the United States. This means that individuals living in Clarksville face a 1 in 36 likelihood of falling victim to various criminal activities. Notably, in the year 2021, the city reported a total of 633 violent crimes and 3,532 property crimes, with offenses such as assault, theft, and burglary ranking as the most frequently occurring incidents.
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