Michigan is characterized by a variety of landscapes, cultures, and communities. Nevertheless, there are certain areas grappling with elevated levels of crime and violence.
These localities exhibit the highest rates of violent crime per 1,000 residents, indicating that the likelihood of residents becoming victims of violent crimes is higher compared to the average person in Michigan. The top five most perilous neighborhoods in Michigan are:
Detroit
The city, with a population of 635,000, has a historical association with the US car industry. Regrettably, it faces elevated rates of both violent and property crimes.
Detroit is recognized as one of America’s most perilous large cities, boasting a crime rate of 6,389 per 100,000 people, making it 248% more hazardous than the state average.
The likelihood of falling victim to a violent crime stands at 1 in 44, with recorded figures for 2021 including 330 murders, 1,850 robberies, and 11,565 assaults.
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Jackson
Jackson ranks among the least safe cities in Michigan, primarily attributed to its elevated violent crime rate. With a population of 32,188, the city has a crime rate of 4,179 per 100,000 people, making it 127% more perilous than the Michigan average.
The likelihood of falling victim to a violent crime in Jackson is 1 in 84, as evidenced by seven recorded murders, 33 robberies, and 277 assaults in 2021. Additionally, property crime is a significant concern, with residents facing a 1 in 31 chance of becoming a victim.
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Harper Woods
Harper Woods is one of the most dangerous locations in Michigan, which should come as no surprise given that it located in Wayne County, close to Detroit.
With a population of 15,492, Harper Woods has a crime rate of 4,057 per 100,000 residents, making it 121% riskier than the typical Michigan city. One in 108 people will fall victim to a violent crime.
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Muskegon Heights
With a population of 10,730, Muskegon Heights grapples with a well-known high crime rate. Despite its relatively small size, the city experiences an alarming disparity in both violent and property crimes. In 2022, the overall crime rate surged to 330% above the national average, reaching a staggering 5,390 incidents.
This translates to a troubling statistic, where each resident faces a 1 in 19 chance of falling victim to any type of crime. Notably, incidents involving burglary and property damage are disproportionately prevalent, with home invasions occurring frequently.
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Benton Harbor
Benton Harbor stands out as one of Michigan’s most perilous cities. With a population of 8,892, the city has a crime rate of 6,365 per 100,000 people, making it 246% more hazardous than the state average. The likelihood of falling victim to a violent crime is 1 in 29.
In 2021, Benton Harbor witnessed two homicides, eleven robberies, and 285 assaults. Property crime is also a significant concern, with 69 burglaries reported in the same year.
The city faces economic challenges, characterized by a high poverty rate and an annual resident income of $32,236, coupled with limited employment opportunities.
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To Conclude
Michigan has a wide variety of cities and scenery, yet certain areas have alarmingly high rates of crime. In terms of violent and property crime, Detroit, Jackson, Harper Woods, Muskegon Heights, and Benton Harbor stand out due to concerning numbers.
These difficulties frequently combine with historical circumstances, economic hardships, and scarce possibilities.
Recall that figures only depict a portion of the story. Every community has potential and strengths that are specific to it. Together, citizens, legislators, and neighborhood associations can build a more secure and promising future for every Michigander.
