The most dangerous U.S. cities in 2025, based on various crime metrics including violent crime rates, are led by Memphis, Tennessee, followed by cities like St. Louis, Missouri; Detroit, Michigan; Baltimore, Maryland; and others. Memphis has the highest violent crime rate with about 2,501 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than the national average. These cities experience high levels of aggravated assaults, homicides, robberies, and other violent crimes.
Top Dangerous US Cities by Violent Crime Rate in 2025
- Memphis, Tennessee: Highest violent crime rate (~2,501/100,000), aggravated assault is predominant.
- St. Louis, Missouri: Also very high violent crime rate with aggravated assault being most common.
- Detroit, Michigan: High violent crime, second after Memphis.
- Baltimore, Maryland: Among the top for violent crimes.
- Other cities with significant violent crime include Houston, Nashville, Denver, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.
Crime Statistics Highlights
- Memphis has about 9,400 total crimes per 100,000 people, three times the U.S. average.
- Other cities follow with rates between 5,000 to 6,000 crimes per 100,000 people.
- Violent crime in Memphis is nearly six times the national average.
- Juvenile crime and firearm-related homicides are major contributors in cities like St. Louis.
Additional Context
- Some cities like Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Tucson, Arizona rank as dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists because of high fatality rates.
- Nationally, states like Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas are considered among the most dangerous overall.
This data provides a comprehensive view of the most dangerous U.S. cities in 2025 based on crime rates mainly focusing on violent crimes like assault, homicide, and robbery.