We all seek a sense of security, be it while relocating, voyaging, or residing in a particular region. Feeling safe is a fundamental human need, and it is something that everyone desires.
According to 2023 statistics, Ohio has a population of 11.76 million, placing it 30th in the country in terms of crime rates. This means that Ohio is in the lower 59 per cent when compared to other states and the District of Columbia, ranking 30 out of 51 (the 50 states plus DC).
While crime rates are a crucial aspect of measuring safety, they do not provide a complete picture. Physical safety and perceived safety are equally important factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of security. Therefore, it is essential to consider both these factors when assessing the safety of a particular area or community.
The Top 10 Most Hazardous Cities in Ohio
10. Springfield
Springfield, Ohio should not be confused with the city of the same name in Missouri. According to recent statistics, Springfield, Ohio is ranked as the tenth-most dangerous city in Ohio with a crime rate of 32.56 per thousand in 2021.
While crime maps are helpful in providing information about the occurrences of crime in a particular area, they may not accurately reflect the level of danger that residents face. It’s important to keep in mind that not all crimes are reported, and some areas with low reported crime rates may still pose a significant risk to the safety of the community. Therefore, it’s crucial to use crime maps as a tool to help inform safety measures, but not rely solely on them to determine the level of danger in a neighborhood.
In Springfield, the majority of criminal activity takes place in busy public areas such as parks, shopping centers, and airports, which tend to attract more tourists.
The downtown center of Springfield, Ohio has a higher crime rate compared to the northeast section. This is why residents of the area opt to live in the northeast section where the crime rates are significantly lower. You can check out the crime rate statistics at crimegrade.org.
9. Akron
Akron, despite being ranked as the 35th most dangerous city in America in 2019, has improved its safety measures significantly. In the latest report of 2021, it has managed to secure the ninth position in Ohio.
Akron has faced several challenges in terms of its water quality, resulting in boil orders being issued frequently. Furthermore, the city has also grappled with a high crime rate.
Since 2020, Akron’s water has consistently met or even exceeded the quality standards set by the US EPA and Ohio EPA. This means that residents can trust that their water is safe and healthy to drink. In fact, Akron is committed to ensuring that its water quality remains at a high level for the well-being of its citizens. The city is constantly striving to improve its water treatment processes and facilities to maintain this standard of excellence.
8. Napoleon
Napoleon has been ranked as the eighth-most dangerous city in Ohio for the year 2021, with a violent crime rate of 35.98 per 1000.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that Napoleon is the proud host of the largest Campbell’s Soup Company plant globally and one of the significant Elastomer plants of Tenneco.
The city has an interesting aspect that sets it apart from others – the Napoleon Outdoor Refreshment Area, commonly known as NORA. It’s a specific part of the downtown area where you can purchase and enjoy an alcoholic beverage that you’ve bought from a participating establishment in a NORA cup without breaking any Ohio Open Container laws. This is a great way to enjoy a drink while exploring the city without worrying about legal repercussions.
Regrettably, as a result, individuals residing in the vicinity may come across inebriated individuals who have recently left the NORA.
7. Warren
Warren, Ohio is ranked as the seventh-most dangerous city in the state with a crime rate of 38.25 per 1000.
According to the locals, the east side of town is considered to be the safest area.
According to statistics, the majority of criminal activities usually take place in the southwestern part of Warren, Ohio. Nonetheless, there are certain areas in the city that are considered safe and secure. For further information, you can refer to the link provided by CrimeGrade.org on the safest places in Warren.
If you live in Warren, Ohio, it’s advised not to leave your car running and unattended while you warm it up.
Drivers are often warned about the possibility of encountering black ice on the roads. This type of ice can be tricky to detect as it blends in with the road surface and often appears as if the road is merely wet. It poses a significant risk to drivers as it can cause their vehicles to lose traction and skid, which can result in serious accidents. It is essential to exercise caution when driving in cold weather conditions to avoid encountering black ice.
According to Warren, it is recommended that homeowners utilize pick-resistant deadbolts or drop-bolt locks that come with guard plates.
When you’re on the road, it’s important to keep your gas tank filled to avoid getting stranded. Additionally, parking under street lights can provide extra security and deter theft. Always remember to lock your car doors as an added precaution. These small steps can help ensure a safer and more stress-free travel experience.
6. Moraine
Moraine, despite being ranked as the sixth-most dangerous city in Ohio, has an area that stands out for its safety. According to residents, the southeast side of town is considered to be the safest. This information is based on a study conducted by CrimeGrade, which ranks cities in the United States based on their level of crime. Despite its overall ranking, Moraine’s residents have found a relatively safer area within the city limits.
According to statistics, the crime rate in Moraine is 41.27 per 1000.
As a result, the city has updated its laws on nuisance abatement, now incorporating chronic criminal activity into the definition.
5. Lima
Lima, being ranked as the fifth most dangerous city in Ohio, has a crime rate of 47.86 per 1000.
According to local residents, the safest area in Lima is the northeast section of town.
According to statistics, the regions with the highest crime rates are located in the southeast and inner northwest. This information was obtained from a reputable source, which revealed that these areas experience a greater incidence of criminal activity compared to other parts of the region. It is important to stay vigilant and take precautions when traveling or residing in these areas to avoid becoming a victim of crime.
As part of its commitment to supporting its residents, the city has joined the Bike Guard registry program that is offered free of charge. This program serves as a useful tool in helping both the police and residents to locate and return lost or stolen bicycles to their rightful owners.
4. Mansfield
Mansfield, Ohio is not a hitchhiker-friendly place as it houses four prisons and a juvenile detention center within close proximity to each other. As per the Google search, these facilities are located within a few minutes of each other, making the entire area less safe for hitchhikers.
With a crime rate of 48.01 crimes per thousand persons, it is ranked as the fourth most dangerous city in Ohio.
According to local residents, the southwest section of Mansfield is deemed the safest area, whereas the southeast, center-north, and center-west areas are reported to have higher crime rates. This information is based on the crime statistics of the city and the perception of the people who reside there. The website, Crimegrade, provides further insights into the safety of the different neighborhoods in Mansfield, Ohio.
While the city’s water meets federal quality guidelines for drinking, the Environmental Working Group discovered ten contaminants that exceeded health guidelines by five times from April 2019 through March 2021.
3. Toledo
According to recent reports, Toledo was ranked as the 30th most dangerous city in the United States in 2019.
As of 2021, Toledo ranks third place among the most dangerous cities in Ohio.
According to the latest statistics of 2021, the crime rate stands at 56.42 per 1000.
According to locals, the northwest part of the town is perceived as the most secure, whereas the central region has been reported to have the highest crime rates. As per statistics, the central area has a higher incidence of criminal activity compared to other parts of town.
To prevent burglaries, the Toledo Police Department suggests the use of motion detectors, automatic timers, and deadbolts. You can install these security measures in your home to ensure enhanced safety and security. Consider taking these measures to protect your property from potential intruders and stay stress-free. For more information and tips on burglary prevention, visit the Toledo Police Department’s website.
It is advisable to inform the Toledo Police Department if you plan on going for a vacation.
2. Canton
While Canton didn’t make it to the national list of dangerous cities in 2019, it still holds the position of being the second-most dangerous city in Ohio.
According to the latest statistics, there were a total of 3,944 violent crimes committed in the year 2021, resulting in a crime rate of 56.65 per thousand.
According to the latest data, the most secure neighbourhood among residents is the northwest section. On the other hand, the downtown and northeast areas that lead to Louisville have reported the highest crime rates.
According to recent studies, nearly thirteen per cent of properties located in Canton, Ohio, are at risk of flooding within the next thirty years. Shockingly, the risk of flooding in these areas is estimated to be as high as twenty-six per cent. This information is based on a reliable source that has assessed the potential risks and hazards posed by natural calamities in Canton, Ohio. It is crucial for the residents of this area to be aware of these risks and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
According to a news report, Canton has encountered tornadoes that were categorized as F2 or lower, which have caused significant destruction in the area.
1. Cleveland
According to recent statistics, Cleveland was ranked as the sixth most unsafe city in the US in 2019, on par with Little Rock, Arkansas.
In February 2022, its ranking fell to 7th place compared to its previous position.
According to recent statistics, medium-sized US cities with populations between 250,000 and 499,999 people have reported the third-highest rate of murder and aggravated assault as of 2022.
As of 2021, the city has been identified as the most perilous place in Ohio.
