Ohio is a state with a diverse landscape, from beautiful state parks to vibrant urban centers and vast agricultural expanses. However, there are also certain places that you may want to avoid as a newcomer or a visitor, due to their high crime rates and other safety issues. In this article, we will list the 7 most dangerous areas to avoid in Ohio in 2024, based on the latest FBI crime data and other factors.
1. Canton
Canton is the most dangerous city in Ohio, according to the most recent FBI crime data. It has a violent crime rate of 1,472 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 5,117 incidents per 100,000 people. Most of the crime in Canton occurs in high-traffic areas like parks, shopping centers, and airports, where more tourists congregate. Canton is also known for its poor water quality, leading to frequent boil orders.
2. Cleveland
Cleveland is the second-most dangerous city in Ohio, and the 39th most dangerous city in America, tied with Vallejo, California. It has a violent crime rate of 1,334 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 4,411 incidents per 100,000 people. Cleveland also has a high rate of natural disasters, such as flooding, tornadoes, ice, and snow. Moreover, Cleveland is one of the epicenters of the opioid epidemic, which has contributed to the rise of drug-related crimes and deaths.
3. Springfield
Springfield is the third-most dangerous city in Ohio, and the 35th most dangerous city in America. It has a violent crime rate of 1,217 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 5,536 incidents per 100,000 people. Springfield is also home to the world’s largest Campbell’s Soup Company plant and one of Tenneco’s largest Elastomer plants, which pose environmental and health hazards to the residents.
4. Portsmouth
Portsmouth is the fourth-most dangerous city in Ohio, and the 47th most dangerous city in America. It has a violent crime rate of 1,109 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 5,214 incidents per 100,000 people. Portsmouth is also located along the Ohio River, which is the second-dirtiest body of water in the United States, only behind the Mississippi River. The poor water quality affects the health and well-being of the residents, as well as the wildlife and the ecosystem.
5. Dayton
Dayton is the fifth-most dangerous city in Ohio, and the 49th most dangerous city in America. It has a violent crime rate of 1,072 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 4,937 incidents per 100,000 people. Dayton also has a high rate of vehicle accidents, with 28% of all fatal accidents in Ohio resulting from speeding, and 42% resulting from impaired driving. Additionally, Dayton has been affected by the decline of the manufacturing industry, which has led to unemployment, poverty, and social problems.
6. Cincinnati
Cincinnati is the sixth-most dangerous city in Ohio, and the 65th most dangerous city in America. It has a violent crime rate of 1,007 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 4,178 incidents per 100,000 people. Cincinnati also has a low ranking for health outcomes, which include length and quality of life. Furthermore, Cincinnati has a high rate of gambling sponsorships, which have been linked to increased sports betting and addiction.
7. Napoleon
Napoleon is the seventh-most dangerous city in Ohio, and the 75th most dangerous city in America. It has a violent crime rate of 996 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 4,063 incidents per 100,000 people. Napoleon also has a high risk of geological hazards, such as karst, mine collapses, earthquakes, landslides, and shore erosion. These hazards can cause damage to property, infrastructure, and human lives.
Conclusion
Ohio is a state with many attractions and opportunities, but it also has some areas that are best avoided due to their high crime rates and other safety issues. Based on the latest FBI crime data and other factors, we have listed the 7 most dangerous areas to avoid in Ohio in 2024. These are Canton, Cleveland, Springfield, Portsmouth, Dayton, Cincinnati, and Napoleon. We hope that this article has provided you with some useful information and guidance for your travel or relocation plans.