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Crime is a persistent concern across many American cities, shaping how communities live, work, and respond to public safety challenges. While some areas have seen improvements in recent years, others continue to grapple with high crime rates that demand attention from both leaders and residents.
Examining recent data and reports, this article explores 10 cities in the US that currently experience some of the highest crime rates, along with the measures their leadership is implementing to reduce these numbers.
Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore continues to rank high in violent crime, though city officials emphasize reform. The 2025 mid-year police report showed decreases in robberies but highlighted ongoing struggles with shootings and homicides.
The issue has even drawn national attention, becoming a point of political debate. While neighborhoods differ widely in safety, Baltimore’s challenges with drugs, gangs, and systemic poverty continue to keep it among the most crime-affected US cities.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee’s crime statistics reveal an ongoing battle with violent offenses. A state report
released this year showed that while homicides have stabilized, shootings and aggravated assaults remain a concern.
City leaders are working on initiatives to expand youth outreach and community policing, but the high rates of gun violence and property crime place Milwaukee on the list of US cities with the highest crime levels.
Washington, DC
The nation’s capital has seen both progress and setbacks when it comes to crime. According to Metropolitan Police Department data, property crimes like car thefts are still frequent, while violent crime trends have been inconsistent.
Some neighborhoods are significantly safer than others, but citywide concerns about policing, juvenile crime, and high-profile incidents keep Washington, DC, in the spotlight. Despite ongoing reforms, public perception of safety remains fragile.
Houston, Texas
Houston, the fourth-largest city in the US, faces unique challenges tied to its size. According to Fox26 Houston, murders and robberies decreased in 2024, though overall crime rates remain high.
Recently, the mayor introduced new policing initiatives to curb nightlife-related violence, including the closure of problem clubs (Houston Public Media). While Houston has made strides, its size and diversity make consistent crime reduction an ongoing challenge.
Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City continues to struggle with violent crime, particularly shootings. Broader debates over law enforcement oversight have also influenced the city’s crime trends.
A Missouri Independent report highlighted political moves to place St. Louis police under state control, reflecting broader concerns about crime across Missouri.
Meanwhile, FBI investigations in the region underscore the ongoing tension between crime prevention efforts and community trust.
Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis regularly appears on lists of the most dangerous cities in America. Violent crime remains high, with carjackings, robberies, and shootings being major concerns.
Recent reports, including The Hill’s coverage, highlight the city’s ongoing struggle with headline-grabbing cases.
While city leaders continue to push for stronger community policing and intervention programs, Memphis residents still face disproportionate crime risks compared to much of the country.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, though often known for its music and tourism, has also seen troubling crime numbers. However, recent reports show signs of progress. A July 2025 report noted that violent crime is on the decline, thanks to new policing strategies and community efforts.
Still, challenges remain, particularly in areas impacted by gang activity and drug-related offenses. Nashville’s mixed results highlight the complexities of tackling urban crime.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque has consistently recorded high crime rates relative to its population size. The 2024 crime report showed concerning levels of vehicle thefts and burglaries, alongside persistent violent crime. While the city has implemented new community policing efforts, Albuquerque remains one of the most crime-affected metro areas in the Southwest.
Denver, Colorado
Denver, known for its outdoor lifestyle and booming population, also struggles with crime in certain areas. Recent data shows persistent challenges with property crimes, especially car thefts and burglaries.
Violent crime rates have fluctuated as per Denver’s violent crimes report for 2025, keeping the city on watch lists for public safety concerns. With rapid growth and urban development, Denver faces a balancing act between expansion and crime prevention.
Detroit, Michigan
Detroit has long been associated with high crime, but recent reports suggest some improvement. According to the city’s 2024 year-end crime stats, violent crime fell compared to previous years, though rates remain significantly above national averages.
Mayor Mike Duggan recently noted that Detroit has “turned a corner” as federal partnerships and local initiatives target gun violence and carjackings (Freep). Still, with homicide and assault rates that far outpace safer cities, Detroit remains one of the most dangerous in the country.
The Bigger Picture on Crime in America
Crime in the US varies widely by city, with some communities showing steady progress while others continue to face stubborn challenges.
From long-standing issues in cities like Detroit and Baltimore to the fast-changing dynamics of places like Houston and Nashville, crime remains a critical issue shaping public life.
Addressing it requires not only policing but also investments in communities, education, and opportunities that reduce the root causes of violence.