Tennessee has become renowned for its rich country music heritage and breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains. However, these attractions have contributed to the state’s rapid population growth and transformation, which has also resulted in a rise in criminal activities.
Tennessee is often ranked within the top 10 most dangerous states in the US, which may come as a surprise to many. If you are considering moving to Tennessee, it’s important to be aware of the most dangerous places to live in the state.
10 Most Dangerous Cities in Tennessee
1. Dyersburg
Dyersburg, a city in Tennessee with a population of 16,164, is considered the most dangerous city in the state. The crime rate in Dyersburg is alarmingly high, with a staggering 244% higher crime rate than the national average. Residents in Dyersburg have a 1 in 13 chance of becoming a victim of any type of crime, making it a dangerous place to live. Violent crimes are prevalent in the city, with property crimes occurring at an even higher rate. In 2022, the most commonly reported crimes in Dyersburg were assault, theft, and burglary.
2. Memphis
Memphis, located on the far Western end of Tennessee, has gained notoriety as one of the most violent cities in the state. In fact, it has been recognized as the most dangerous large city in the US. With a population of 633,104, the crime rate in Memphis is a staggering 7,913 per 100,000, which is 237% higher than the national average. This means that residents of Memphis have a 1 in 14 chance of becoming a victim of any type of crime. The city is plagued with violent crimes, with over 300 homicides reported in 2021 alone. Additionally, property crimes such as burglary and vehicle theft occur frequently, with an average of over 5,000 incidents each year.
3. Chattanooga
Located in Hamilton County in the Appalachian foothills, Chattanooga is known for being one of the most dangerous places in Tennessee. With a population of 181,100, the city has a total crime rate of 7,716 per 100,000, which is 229% higher than the national average. Unfortunately, residents of Chattanooga have a 1 in 16 chance of becoming victims of any type of crime. In 2021, there were 33 murders, 193 robberies, and 2,108 assaults reported in the city.
4. Nashville
Despite being the capital of Tennessee, Nashville has been plagued with a high crime rate. Although it is not considered the most dangerous city in the state, it still faces a significant amount of criminal activity. With a population of 689,447 and a steady influx of tourists who come to enjoy the city’s renowned music venues and nightlife, Nashville has a total crime rate of 5,229 per 100,000 residents. This figure is 123% higher than the national average, and the chances of becoming a victim of any crime in the city are 1 in 19. Pickpocketing and theft are common, even in popular tourist areas, while violent crime tends to be concentrated in certain neighborhoods.
5. Kingsport
With a population of 55,442, Kingsport is a city located in Sullivan and Hawkins counties. Unfortunately, the total crime rate in Kingsport is higher than the national average, with a rate of 5,157 per 100,000 people. This means that residents have a 1 in 20 chance of becoming a victim of any type of crime. In 2021 alone, there were 413 violent crimes and 2,102 non-violent crimes reported.
6. Knoxville
With a population of 190,740, Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee. Unfortunately, the city’s total crime rate is 5,038 per 100,000 which is 115% higher than the national average. The numbers are quite alarming as there were 1,595 violent crimes and 7,850 property crimes reported in the city in 2021. Among these crimes, assault, burglary, and vehicle theft were the most common types.
7. Crossville
Crossville, a city situated in Cumberland County with a population of 12,071, has a relatively high crime rate of 4,670 per 100,000. This rate is 99% higher than the national average and 48% higher than the Tennessee average. Unfortunately, residents of Crossville have a 1 in 22 chance of falling victim to any type of crime. In 2022 alone, there were two murders, 31 robberies, and 356 assaults reported in the city.
8. Johnson City
Johnson City, situated in eastern Tennessee, is grappling with the issue of high crime rates and violence. With a population of 71,046, the city has a total crime rate of 4,477 per 100,000, which is 91% higher than the national average. Shockingly, residents of Johnson City have a 1 in 23 chance of becoming victims of any type of crime. In 2021, the city witnessed five murders, 38 robberies, and 179 assaults. Moreover, there were 2,282 property crimes reported in the same year.
9. Murfreesboro
With a population of 152,769, Murfreesboro is considered one of the most dangerous cities in Tennessee. Although the city’s total crime rate of 2,973 per 100,000 is 6% lower than the state average, it is still 27% higher than the national average. Shockingly, there were 633 violent crimes and 3,532 property crimes recorded in the city in 2021. This includes seven murders, 53 robberies, and 453 assaults.
10. Clarksville
Montgomery County’s Clarksville is situated in northwestern Tennessee and is home to approximately 166,722 people. The city’s overall crime rate is 2,853 per 100,000, which is 22% higher than the national average. The likelihood of becoming a victim of any criminal activity in Clarksville is 1 in 36. In 2021, 633 violent crimes and 3,532 property crimes were reported in the city, with assault, theft, and burglary being the most frequent offenses.
