Arkansas boasts a blend of history, scenic landscapes, and a varied culture. Nonetheless, it holds a grim statistic: it ranks as the third most perilous state in the U.S., as per RoadSnacks.
Compared to the national average, Arkansas contends with a notably elevated crime rate, particularly in severe offenses like homicide, sexual assault, robbery, and assault.
While there are secure areas to reside in the state, there are also cities best avoided. Presented here are the five riskiest cities in Arkansas, determined by the most recent FBI crime statistics.
Pine Bluff
Pine Bluff, Arkansas, holds the unfortunate title of being the state’s most perilous city, and it’s ranked among the most dangerous in the nation. The rate of violent crime is alarmingly high, standing at 25.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, signifying a 1 in 39 chance of experiencing such a crime.
Property crime is also prevalent, with a rate of 47.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. This city has grappled with long-standing issues like poverty, unemployment, and social challenges, all of which play a significant role in its elevated crime levels.
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Helena-West
Helena-West Helena, a small town, faces significant issues with crime. The rate of violent crime in this town is 18.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is over four times the national average. Additionally, the rate of property crime is even higher, standing at 56.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, making it the highest in the state.
Helena-West Helena also grapples with a high poverty rate of 42.5%, affecting nearly half of its population. Furthermore, the public schools and the local economy receive low ratings in this town.
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West Memphis
West Memphis, a suburb of Memphis, Tennessee, experiences a significantly higher crime rate compared to its neighboring areas. The rate of violent crime in West Memphis stands at 19.8 per 1,000 residents, which is over five times the national average.
Additionally, the rate of property crime is also elevated, at 50.1 per 1,000 residents. The city has been grappling with issues such as gang violence, drug trafficking, and corruption for an extended period, rendering it a hazardous place to reside.
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Little Rock
Little Rock, the capital and biggest city of Arkansas, is unfortunately known for being one of the riskier places in the state. The rate of violent crimes here is 16.4 incidents for every 1,000 residents, which is over four times higher than the national average.
Moreover, the rate of property crimes is also quite high, at 49 incidents for every 1,000 residents. Little Rock’s history includes conflicts over race, social disturbances, and political controversies, all of which have played a role in its elevated crime levels.
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El Dorado
El Dorado was once famous for its oil industry and cultural offerings, but now it’s notorious for its elevated crime levels. The violent crime rate is 15 incidents per 1,000 residents, over four times the national average.
Property crimes are also prevalent, with a rate of 46 incidents per 1,000 residents. The city has been grappling with economic decline and a decreasing population, factors contributing to its elevated crime rates.
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Final Words
Here are the five most dangerous cities in Arkansas that it’s best to steer clear of if you prioritize your safety and well-being. On the other hand, there are also some secure communities in Arkansas with minimal crime and excellent living conditions.
As per NeighborhoodScout, some of the most secure cities in Arkansas include Greenbrier, Bentonville, Centerton, Bella Vista, and Maumelle. These cities boast low rates of both violent and property crimes, in addition to providing top-notch education, healthcare, and recreational amenities for their inhabitants.
