5 US Towns You Should Never Visit

While small towns often evoke images of safety and tranquility, some face significant crime challenges. Here are five of the most dangerous small towns in America based on recent crime data.

1. Glendale, Colorado

Photo by Dbkilo.

Glendale, Colorado, located near the Rockies, might evoke images of dramatic landscapes and natural beauty. However, the reality is far from idyllic, as it has an extremely high crime rate of 175.8 incidents per 1,000 residents. Instead of tranquility, you’re more likely to encounter burglars and vehicle thieves.

2. Emeryville, California

Emeryville, California might seem like the perfect place for a day of sunshine and beach volleyball but be cautious. With a crime rate of 169.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, the town experiences a high level of property crime and assaults, making it less idyllic than it sounds.

3. Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City boardwalk looking north at Worcester Street. Photo by Dough4872.

Ocean City is the top tourist destination on this list, drawing visitors from Maryland and nearby states each year for its beaches, boardwalks, and amusement parks. However, the town has a high crime rate of 145 incidents per 1,000 residents, which might make potential visitors reconsider.

4. Florida City, Florida

Photo by Ebyabe.

Being so close to Miami, you’d expect the small town of Florida City to be a fun and safe place to vacation. However, this area has a different reality. It has a high crime rate of 130.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, and home burglaries and auto thefts are unfortunately common here.

5. Sauk Village, Illinois

Photo by Wiszo8.

Situated in Illinois, this small town has an alarmingly high crime rate of 75.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. With a significant number of burglaries and assaults, it’s definitely not the kind of place you’d feel comfortable letting your children walk home from school alone.

These towns, despite their small size, face substantial crime challenges. Community efforts, enhanced law enforcement, and socio-economic improvements are crucial to creating safer environments for residents.

References: Touring the 18 Most Dangerous Small Towns in America | Most Dangerous Small Towns in the U.S.