Nevada is a state that attracts millions of tourists every year with its dazzling casinos, stunning natural wonders, and vibrant nightlife. However, behind the glitz and glamour, Nevada also has a dark side: it is one of the most dangerous states in the country, with a crime rate that is higher than the national average. According to the FBI, Nevada had 659 violent crimes and 2,727 property crimes per 100,000 people in 2023.
While some cities in Nevada are relatively safe, others are plagued by high levels of crime that make them unsafe for residents and visitors alike. In this article, we will reveal which city in Nevada was just named one of the “crime capital” in the entire country, based on the latest data from the FBI and other sources.
What is the most dangerous city in Nevada?
The most dangerous city in Nevada, according to the FBI, is Carlin, a small town of about 2,300 people located along Interstate 80 in the middle of nowhere. Carlin has a crime rate of 63.45 per 1,000 residents, which is over double the national average of 39.08. Carlin also has the highest violent crime rate in the state, with 15 incidents reported in 2023, of which 14 were aggravated assaults. This means that Carlin residents have a 1 in 153 chance of being a victim of a violent crime, compared to a 1 in 270 chance for the average Nevadan.
Carlin’s high crime rate is partly attributed to its low median household income of $42,000, which is the lowest on this list. Carlin also has a large transient population, as it is a popular stop for truck drivers and travelers passing through the state. Carlin’s proximity to the gold mines in the area also attracts criminals who target the workers and their valuables.
What are the other dangerous cities in Nevada?
Carlin is not the only city in Nevada that has a serious crime problem. Here are some of the other dangerous cities in the state, based on the FBI data and other sources:
Winnemucca: This gold mining town of about 7,800 people has a crime rate of 28.23 per 1,000 residents, which is mostly driven by property crime. Winnemucca had 221 property crimes reported in 2023, of which 175 were larceny-thefts. Winnemucca residents have a 1 in 35 chance of being a victim of a property crime, compared to a 1 in 46 chance for the average Nevadan.
Henderson: Henderson is the second-largest city in the state and a suburb of Las Vegas, with a population of over 300,000 people. Henderson has a crime rate of 21.49 per 1,000 residents, which is lower than the state average but still higher than the national average. Henderson had 6,655 crimes reported in 2023, of which 583 were violent crimes and 6,072 were property crimes. Henderson residents have a 1 in 53 chance of being a victim of a crime, compared to a 1 in 37 chance for the average Nevadan.
Mesquite: Mesquite is a small city of about 19,000 people near the Arizona and Utah borders, which is popular for its casinos and golf courses. Mesquite has a crime rate of 17.32 per 1,000 residents, which is also lower than the state average but higher than the national average. Mesquite had 330 crimes reported in 2023, of which 32 were violent crimes and 298 were property crimes. Mesquite residents have a 1 in 58 chance of being a victim of a crime, compared to a 1 in 37 chance for the average Nevadan.
How to stay safe in Nevada?
Nevada is a state that offers many attractions and opportunities for its residents and visitors, but it also comes with some risks and challenges. If you are planning to live in or visit Nevada, here are some tips to help you stay safe and avoid becoming a victim of crime:
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas. If possible, travel with a group or use public transportation or ridesharing services.
Lock your doors and windows and secure your valuables when you leave your home, car, or hotel room. Do not leave any items visible in your vehicle or unattended in public places. Use a safe or a locker to store your cash, jewelry, electronics, and other important documents.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or flash your money or credit cards in public. Use ATMs that are located in well-lit and busy areas and shield your PIN when entering it. Report any suspicious activity or transactions to your bank or credit card company immediately.
Do not accept drinks or food from strangers or leave your drink unattended in bars or clubs. If you feel sick or dizzy, seek medical attention and report any possible drugging or assault to the police.
Do not gamble more than you can afford to lose or get involved in any illegal or shady activities. If you have a gambling problem, seek help from a professional or a support group.
Do not engage in any arguments or fights with anyone, especially if they are intoxicated or armed. If you witness or are involved in any violent or criminal incidents, call 911 and cooperate with the authorities.
Conclusion
Nevada is a state that has a lot to offer, but it also has a high crime rate that makes some of its cities very dangerous. Carlin, a small town in the middle of nowhere, was just named one of the “crime capital” in the entire country, based on the latest data from the FBI and other sources. Other dangerous cities in Nevada include Winnemucca, Henderson, and Mesquite, which have high levels of property and violent crime. To stay safe in Nevada, it is important to be aware of your surroundings, secure your valuables, and avoid any risky or illegal situations. By following these tips, you can enjoy the best of Nevada without becoming a victim of crime.