The 20 Most Dangerous Cities in the US for 2025: Why Security Matters More Than Ever

At St. Louis Alarm Company, we understand that safety is a top priority for families and businesses, especially in areas where crime rates are high. As a leading provider of security solutions in St. Louis, we’re committed to helping our community stay safe. Based on the latest crime data from sources like the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program and other reliable analyses, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 most dangerous cities in the United States for 2025, with a focus on violent crime rates per 100,000 residents. St. Louis, unfortunately, ranks high on this list, underscoring the importance of robust security measures for our residents and businesses. Below, we explore these cities and offer insights on how to enhance your safety with professional security systems.

The 20 Most Dangerous Cities in the US for 2025

The following list is based on violent crime rates, including homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, and rape, as reported by the FBI and other sources for 2024 and early 2025 projections. These cities face complex challenges like poverty, unemployment, and gang activity, contributing to their high crime rates.

1. Memphis, TN – Violent crime rate: 2,437 per 100,000
   Memphis tops the list with one of the highest violent crime rates in the nation, driven by aggravated assaults and homicides. Despite community policing efforts, economic struggles continue to fuel crime.

2. Detroit, MI – Violent crime rate: 2,005 per 100,000
   Detroit’s high murder rate and ongoing issues with gun violence and drug trafficking keep it among the deadliest cities. Recent revitalization efforts show promise, but challenges remain.

3. Little Rock, AR – Violent crime rate: 1,825 per 100,000
   Little Rock struggles with aggravated assaults, with economic disparities and limited law enforcement resources contributing to its ranking.

4. Anniston, AL – Violent crime rate: 3,434 per 100,000
   Anniston leads in per capita violent crimes, particularly aggravated assaults, making it a significant concern for residents.

5. Baltimore, MD – Violent crime rate: 1,418 per 100,000
   Baltimore’s high homicide rate and drug-related violence make it one of the most dangerous large cities, though recent community efforts have reduced murders slightly.

6. Cleveland, OH – Violent crime rate: 1,585 per 100,000
   Cleveland’s violent crime, including assaults and robberies, is linked to abandoned properties and economic decline.

7. Kansas City, MO – Violent crime rate: 1,424 per 100,000
   Kansas City has seen a rise in homicides in early 2025, with nonfatal shootings also increasing, despite some crime prevention efforts.

8. Pueblo, CO – Violent crime rate: 1,439 per 100,000
   Pueblo’s surge in gang activity and drug trafficking has elevated its violent crime rates, making it a surprising entry on this list.

9. St. Louis, MO – Violent crime rate: 1,407 per 100,000
   Our hometown ranks high due to a high murder rate and aggravated assaults. While Missouri’s gun laws allow for permitless concealed carry, local efforts like the Office of Violence Prevention and community policing are working to address gun violence, with a 52% decrease in murders in targeted neighborhoods from 2023 to 2024. Community policing and security solutions are critical here.

10. Beaumont, TX – Violent crime rate: 1,376 per 100,000
    Beaumont’s violent crime rate is driven by assaults and robberies, with socioeconomic challenges playing a significant role.

11. Birmingham, AL – Violent crime rate: 1,694 per 100,000
    Birmingham faces high aggravated assault rates, worsened by a 33% high school dropout rate and economic disparities.

12. Oakland, CA – Violent crime rate: 3,641 per 100,000
    Oakland’s high rates of homicides, shootings, and gang-related crimes make it one of the most dangerous cities in the West.

13. Albuquerque, NM – Violent crime rate: ~1,300 per 100,000 (estimated)
    Albuquerque has seen rising violent and property crimes, with challenges in policing and community resources.

14. New Orleans, LA – Violent crime rate: ~1,200 per 100,000 (estimated)
    New Orleans struggles with shootings, robberies, and property crimes, impacting its safety despite its cultural vibrancy.

15. Stockton, CA – Violent crime rate: ~1,200 per 100,000 (estimated)
    Stockton faces high rates of robbery and assault, with gang activity contributing to its dangerous environment.

16. Peoria, IL – Violent crime rate: ~1,300 per 100,000 (estimated)
    Peoria’s violent crime rate, particularly assaults, places it among the most dangerous smaller cities.

17. Lansing, MI – Violent crime rate: 1,387 per 100,000
    Lansing’s crime rate is driven by violent offenses like assaults, with economic challenges playing a role.

18. East St. Louis, IL – Violent crime rate: ~3,000 per 100,000 (estimated)
    East St. Louis has one of the highest murder rates in the nation, with limited resources exacerbating crime.

19. Alexandria, LA – Violent crime rate: ~1,200 per 100,000 (estimated)
    Despite its smaller size, Alexandria faces significant violent crime, particularly domestic violence and shootings.

20. Myrtle Beach, SC – Violent crime rate: ~1,200 per 100,000 (estimated)
    Myrtle Beach leads in violent crimes for smaller cities, with tourism areas still facing safety challenges.

Why St. Louis Stands Out

St. Louis, our home, ranks as the 9th most dangerous city in the US, with a violent crime rate of 1,407 per 100,000 residents. The city’s high homicide rate, driven largely by firearm-related incidents, is a pressing concern. Factors like poverty and unemployment contribute to this ranking, but local initiatives are making a difference. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department’s use of technology like ShotSpotter and community programs through the Office of Violence Prevention have led to a 15% overall crime reduction in 2024 and a 52% decrease in murders in targeted neighborhoods. At St. Louis Alarm Company, we see firsthand how these challenges impact our community, which is why we’re dedicated to providing tailored security solutions to protect homes and businesses.

How St. Louis Alarm Company Can Help

Living in or near a high-crime city like St. Louis doesn’t mean you have to live in fear. Here are ways our security solutions can enhance your safety:

• Advanced Alarm Systems: Our state-of-the-art alarm systems detect intrusions in real-time, alerting you and authorities instantly.

• 24/7 Monitoring: Our professional monitoring services ensure rapid response to any security breach, giving you peace of mind.

• Smart Surveillance: AI-powered cameras provide real-time monitoring and intelligent alerts, reducing false alarms and catching threats early.

• Access Control: Secure your business with keycard or biometric systems to prevent unauthorized entry.

• Community Focus: As a local company, we understand St. Louis’s unique challenges and customize solutions to fit your needs.

Steps to Stay Safe in High-Crime Areas

Beyond installing a security system, consider these tips to enhance your safety:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

• Avoid high-risk areas and plan safe routes.

• Engage in community programs to foster local safety initiatives.

• Invest in protective gear like personal alarms or secure locks.

• Report suspicious activity to local authorities promptly.

Conclusion

The 20 cities listed above, including St. Louis, face significant challenges with violent crime, but proactive measures can make a difference. At St. Louis Alarm Company, we’re here to help you protect what matters most with cutting-edge security solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s work together to make St. Louis a safer place to live, work, and thrive.

Sources: FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data, Security.org, getsafeandsound.com, populationu.com, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department