List of the Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Connecticut in 2023

Connecticut is popular for those looking for more affordable housing and spacious living arrangements, especially for families. However, the state’s crime rate often receives criticism. To assist you in determining which areas to steer clear of, we have compiled a list of the top ten worst places to reside in Connecticut.

10 Most Dangerous Cities in Connecticut

New Haven

New Haven, a university city located along the New Haven Harbor and part of the New York City metropolitan area, is considered the most dangerous city in Connecticut. Its population of 135,081 experiences a crime rate 65% higher than the national average. The most prevalent crimes in New Haven are assaults, robberies, thefts, and vehicle theft, with 25 murders reported in 2020. Despite this, New Haven is home to Yale University and is a crucial economic hub in Connecticut.

Waterbury

Waterbury, a city located along the Naugatuck River and a short drive from New York City, is considered one of Connecticut’s most dangerous cities. The city has a population of 110,403, and its crime rate is 47% higher than the national average. Since the 1970s, Waterbury has been plagued by economic issues and has consistently ranked low in terms of quality of life. Despite its proximity to major cities like New York City and Boston, Waterbury offers few job opportunities.

New London

New London, situated at the mouth of the Thames River in southeastern Connecticut, is a bustling port city. However, with a population of 27,367, the total crime rate of this city is 46% higher than the national average, making it one of the most dangerous cities in Connecticut. The most prevalent types of crime in New London are thefts, assaults, and robberies. Shockingly, nine murders have already been reported in 2022. Nevertheless, despite the lack of a robust economy, New London continues to thrive as a close-knit community with a lively arts scene.

Bridgeport

As Connecticut’s largest city and an important economic centre, Bridgeport is a bustling metropolis, but it also has a reputation for being one of the state’s most dangerous cities. With a population of nearly 150,000, Bridgeport’s violent crime rate is 44% higher than the national average, making robberies, assaults, thefts, and vehicle thefts the most prevalent types of crime in the area. Unfortunately, much of the crime in Bridgeport is linked to drug trafficking and addiction, which only exacerbates the situation.

New Britain

Located in Hartford County, New Britain is a city that is home to Central Connecticut State University. With a population of 74,135, the city has a higher total crime rate than the national average, making it a dangerous place to live. Property crime is the most prevalent in New Britain, with theft, burglary, and vehicle theft being the most frequent crimes reported. Poverty and drug activity are the leading causes of corruption in the area.

Hartford

Hartford, Connecticut is the capital and the fourth largest city in the state. With a population of 121,054, it unfortunately has a crime rate that is 14% higher than the national average. The most prevalent crimes in Hartford are burglary, theft, and assault. The violent crime rate is also of great concern, at 23% above the national average. Such high levels of violent crime deem Hartford one of Connecticut’s most unsafe cities.

Norwalk

Located just outside of Long Island, Norwalk is a city in western Connecticut with a population of 91,184. While the city’s violent crime rate is 9% above the national average, Norwalk remains safe. The most common types of crime include assault, robbery, theft, and vehicle theft. In addition to its safety, Norwalk boasts an active arts scene with many festivals held annually. For those looking to settle down in Norwalk, the median home price is $551,968.

Meriden

Located between New Haven and Hartford, Meriden is a historic city with a population of 60,850. While the total crime rate is 8% above the national average, the violent crime rate is slightly below it. Assaults are the most common type of violent crime. However, property crime, including theft, vehicle theft, and burglary, is a major concern for residents. Despite these concerns, the surrounding area of Meriden is renowned for its scenic natural views and rich colonial history.

Norwich

Located in New London County near the Long Island Sound, Norwich has 40,125 people. While the city’s crime rate is slightly higher than the state average, it’s still considered one of the most dangerous cities in Connecticut. Property crimes are the most common type in Norwich, with theft and burglary being the top offences. Despite a stagnant economy, Norwich is generally a safe place to live. The median home price in the city is $240,656.

Hamden

Hamden, located near the renowned Sleeping Giant Mountain in New Haven County, has a population of 61,169. While the property crime rate in this city is 7% higher than the national average, the most common types of crimes reported are burglaries, thefts, and vehicle thefts. Despite this, crime isn’t a significant concern in Hamden, as the violent crime rate is much lower than the national average.

Also Read:

• List of the Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Iowa With Highest Crime Rate (2023)
• List of Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Charlotte With Highest Crime Rate (2023)
• List of Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in New Jersey With Highest Crime Rate (2023)
• List Of Top 9 Most Dangerous Cities in Virginia With Highest Crime Rate(2023)
• The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Georgia With Highest Crime Rate (2023 )