The “Great Lakes State,” Michigan, is known for its breathtaking scenery, extensive automotive heritage, and energetic cities. But different crime rates are a fact that hides beneath the surface of picturesque towns and busy streets.
It’s important to identify high-crime regions for both curious tourists and inhabitants who are concerned about their safety. We’ll examine recent crime data, paying particular attention to per-capita rates of violent crime.
We hope that by examining this data, you will be better equipped to choose the locations in Michigan that you reside in, visit, or explore.
So come along as we reveal the top 5 cities in Michigan with the greatest rates of violent crime, but remember that numbers are only one part of the picture.
Benton HarborÂ
Another of Michigan’s dangerous cities is Benton Harbor. With 8,892 residents, Benton Harbor has a crime rate of 6,365 per 100,000, making it 169% riskier than the average city in the country.
There is a 1 in 29 probability of falling victim to a violent crime. The city saw 285 assaults, 11 robberies, and two homicides in 2021. Property crime is also a problem; in 2023, there were 67 recorded burglaries.
Due to its low work options and $32,236 annual resident income, Benton Harbor has a high poverty rate.
Detroit
Detroit is the most deadly city in Michigan. With 635,000 residents, the city has long been recognized as a hub for the US auto industry. Regretfully, there are also a lot of violent and property crimes committed there.
Detroit, which has a crime rate of 6,389 per 100,000 residents, is 170% more dangerous than the national average and is regarded as one of the most dangerous big cities in the country.
There is a 1 in 44 risk of falling victim to a violent crime in 2023, with 1,392 robberies, 11,096 assaults, and 252 murders reported.
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Muskegon Heights
With 10,730 residents, the city is known for having a high crime rate. Despite Muskegon Heights’ tiny population, there is a glaring disparity between the quantity of violent and property crime committed there and its size.
With 5,390 crimes per 100,000 people, the overall crime rate in 2022 was 130% higher than the national average. Accordingly, there is a 1 in 19 probability that any resident will fall victim to a crime of any kind.
Kalamazoo
With a population of 75,834, Kalamazoo has a crime rate of 6,018 per 100,000 people, which is 164% higher than the average for the country. The likelihood of a resident becoming a victim of any crime is 1 in 17. There were 873 assaults, 137 robberies, and 14 homicides in 2023.
As a result, there is a 1 in 67 probability of becoming a victim of violent crime. Over 700 house invasions and burglaries occurred in the same year.
The city has a 6.7% unemployment rate, and a high crime rate is a result of high poverty rates.
Read Also: Where to Settle Down: Michigan’s 5 Best Family Cities
Albion
With a population of 7,700, Albion is renowned for its Midwestern charm and small-town atmosphere. Albion is bigger, yet it still has more rugged terrain. At 4,671 incidents per 100,000 population, it has a total crime rate that is 105% greater than the national average.
Additionally, Albion has a violent crime rate that is 196% higher than the national average, with a 1 in 22 chance of becoming a victim of a crime there.
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To Conclude
Though Michigan has a stunning scenery and a fascinating past, it’s crucial to examine the state’s crime statistics when deciding where to live or go. Five cities with higher rates of violent crime are highlighted in this list.
Keep in mind that these figures are only the beginning and that crime rates can change.
It is advisable to investigate individual neighborhoods and proceed with caution when in an unfamiliar location. You may safely tour Michigan and take advantage of everything it has to offer by being knowledgeable and exercising caution.
