The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Ohio with the Highest Crime Rates (2023)

Nestled in the heart of America, Ohio is often considered the epitome of a midwestern state. Despite its charming facade, the Buckeye State is grappling with many issues ranging from rampant drug addiction to economic downturns and violent crime. In this article, we delve into Ohio’s top ten most dangerous cities, shedding light on the prevalent situation in these areas.

Most Dangerous Cities in Ohio

1. Cleveland

Cleveland, Ohio, has been ranked as the most dangerous city in the state. With a total population of 367,991, the city has a significantly high violent crime rate of 5.5 times more than the Ohio state average and 4.3 times more than the national average.

The town is plagued with problems such as mass poverty, a high unemployment, and a drug trade, all contributing to the alarming crime rate. Shockingly, Cleveland also has one of the highest murder rates in the country, with residents having a 1 in 59 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime. As of 2022, this city has recorded 164 murders, 1,505 robberies, and 4,280 assaults, which makes it the worst city in Ohio for violent crimes.

2. Chillicothe

Chillicothe, Ohio, is considered one of the most dangerous cities in the state due to its alarming crime rate, which is 4 times higher than the state average and 3.7 times higher than the national average. Despite having a population of only 22,000, the city experiences numerous violent crimes, particularly a major problem with sexual assault, which is 2.8 times higher than the national average.

In 2020 alone, the city recorded 111 violent crimes and 1,432 property crimes. Chillicothe is plagued with drug-related issues, resulting in a disproportionately high number of overdose deaths. With a poverty rate of 18%, the city faces various problems related to poverty. Sadly, residents of Chillicothe have a 1 in 13 chance of becoming victims of any crime.

3. Athens

Athens is considered one of the most dangerous cities in Ohio due to its high crime rate of 2,279 per 100,000 people. Even though it’s not the most dangerous city in Ohio, it’s still one of the poorest, with a poverty rate of 48.7%, more than three times the national average.

The median household income in Athens is around $32,000, almost 60% lower than the US average. The median home value in this city is $196,000, which is just 10% lower than the national average. As of 2022, Athens has a house price-to-income ratio of almost 6.3, significantly higher than the national ratio of 3.6.

4. Canton

Canton, unfortunately, ranks among the least desirable cities in Ohio due to its alarming crime rate. Despite having a population of 70,000, Canton has a crime rate of 6,293 per 100,000, 168% higher than the national average. Disturbingly, 2022 alone witnessed over 1,000 violent crimes, including 16 murders, 155 robberies, and 729 assaults. Sadly, the chances of becoming a victim of a crime for Canton residents are 1 in 16. Moreover, Canton’s poverty rate, which stands at 30%, and unemployment rate of 10% make it one of Ohio’s poorest cities.

5. Dayton

Dayton, Ohio, is known to be one of the most dangerous cities in the state. With a population of 140,000, Dayton is the sixth-largest city in Ohio. Shockingly, the city’s crime rate is 110% higher than the national average, reaching 4,932 per 100,000 people. This means that the chance of becoming a victim of any crime in Dayton is 1 in 21. The year 2020 witnessed a staggering number of violent crimes in the city, with 1,523 incidents reported. Among these were 46 murders, 300 robberies, and 1,040 assaults.

Unfortunately, Dayton’s connection to the drug trade contributes significantly to its high crime rate. Montgomery County, which Dayton is a part of, has the 8th highest rate of drug overdose deaths in the US. Property crime is also rampant, with 5,391 cases reported in 2020. The city’s poverty rate currently stands at 29.6%, with an unemployment rate of 29.6%.

6. Portsmouth

Portsmouth, situated on the north bank of the Ohio River, is considered one of the most dangerous cities in Ohio. With a population of 20,000, the city has an alarmingly high crime rate of 5,360 per 100,000 residents- making it 128% more dangerous than the national average. The city is also known for its high poverty rate of 35%, which is over 105% higher than the national average, earning it a place among the poorest cities in Ohio.

Additionally, the unemployment rate in Portsmouth is alarmingly high, ranking fifth highest in the state at 10%. The city’s drug overdose rate is the highest in the state, which is a significant concern as it has caused a spike in Hepatitis C cases. The drug-related problems have also increased the number of drug-related deaths, robberies, and murders. Sadly, there is also a higher incidence of children born addicted to prescription drugs. Overall, Portsmouth is undoubtedly one of the worst places to live in Ohio, given the many issues and challenges its residents face.

7. Mansfield

With a population of 46,500, Mansfield has a high crime rate of 4,703 per 100,000, which is 100% more dangerous than the US average. The residents of Mansfield have a 1 in 22 chance of becoming a victim of crime. The city has been severely impacted by the decline of manufacturing and retail jobs, which has led to a staggering unemployment rate of 10.3% and a poverty rate of 24.5%. In 2020, Mansfield reported 199 violent crimes and 1,816 non-violent crimes.

8. Warren

Warren, a city with a population of 39,000, has a high crime rate of 3,240 per 100,000 people. This makes the city 38% more dangerous than the national average and 50% more complex than the Ohio average. Unfortunately, residents of Warren have a 1 in 31 chance of becoming a victim of any crime.

The city’s overall poverty rate is 34.4%, compounded by the loss of manufacturing jobs in the area. One of the main contributors to the high crime rate is the drug and opioid epidemic, a significant problem in the area. Trumbull County, where Warren is located, had the ninth-highest overdose rate in the state in 2021.

9. Springfield

Springfield, a city with a population of 58,736, has a high crime rate of 5,711 per 100,000 people, 143% higher than the national average and 164% higher than the Ohio average. Unfortunately, like many other cities in Ohio, Springfield is also struggling with poverty and limited job opportunities, contributing to increased crime rates.

With an unemployment rate of 8.9% and a poverty rate of 23%, the city faces challenges in ensuring its residents’ safety. In 2020, Springfield recorded 338 violent crimes, including 8 murders, 107 burglaries, and 171 assaults. Sadly, the overall chance of becoming a victim of crime in Springfield is 1 in 18.

10. Whitehall

Whitehall, a city in Ohio, has gained notoriety for its alarming rate of violent crimes. Shockingly, the city’s crime rate is 124% higher than the national average, indicating the severity of the situation. Residents of Whitehall face a 1 in 20 chance of falling prey to any crime. Moreover, despite having a population of under 19,000, Whitehall recorded 157 violent crimes in 2020 alone. These included 2 murders, 50 robberies, and 95 cases of assault. This disproportionate rate of violent crimes in a small city like Whitehall is a cause for concern.

Final Verdict

The opioid epidemic and limited economic prospects have significantly impacted Ohio, particularly the Midwest region, resulting in higher crime rates in many cities. Unfortunately, this trend is only worsening, causing concern for the state’s safety. Ohio’s population declined in 2021, marking the first time in its history. The state faces several challenges, so it has earned its reputation as a Rust Belt state.

Ohio has a lot to offer, but unfortunately, several cities in the state have been severely impacted by issues such as violent crime. If you’re looking for the perfect place to call home, it’s best to steer clear of the cities on this list. These cities have been identified as the worst places to live in Ohio due to their high violent crime rates.

Also Read:

• Top 10 Dangerous Cities in Michigan
• The Top 8 Most Dangerous Cities in Ontario
• Discovering The 10 Most Dangerous Cities In North Carolina 
• The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Massachusetts