Virginia draws numerous visitors and residents due to its historical, cultural, and natural charms. Nonetheless, safety and tranquility vary across the state. Certain Virginia cities exhibit elevated levels of violent and property crimes, earning them a spot among the most perilous in the nation.
Here, we will unveil the top 5 most dangerous cities in Virginia, utilizing the latest FBI crime data and other reliable sources.
| City | Population | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate |
| Portsmouth | 97,840 (2021) | 7.49 per 1,000 residents | 37.78 per 1,000 residents |
| Norfolk | 235,089 (2021) | 7.81 per 1,000 residents | 34.09 per 1,000 residents |
| Newport News | 184,587 (2021) | 6.38 per 1,000 residents | 19.48 per 1,000 residents |
| Roanoke | 98,865 (2021) | 4.90 per 1,000 residents | 38.77 per 1,000 residents |
| Richmond | 206,600 (2020) | 6.67 per 1,000 residents | 32. 64 per 1, 000 residents |
Portsmouth
Portsmouth, situated on the Elizabeth River across from Norfolk, is a city with a diverse population. It is home to approximately 97,840 people and experiences a violent crime rate of 7.49 per 1,000 residents. This rate is more than three times the state average and nearly five times the national average.
Additionally, Portsmouth faces a significant property crime rate of 37.78 per 1,000 residents, which is almost twice the state average and four times the national average.
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Norfolk
Norfolk, Virginia, ranks as the state’s third-largest city, boasting a population of approximately 235,089 residents. Positioned along extensive waterfront areas, including the Chesapeake Bay and the Elizabeth River, Norfolk is home to the world’s largest naval base.
In terms of safety, Norfolk faces challenges with a violent crime rate of 7.81 incidents per 1,000 residents—more than three times the state average and nearly four times the national average. The city also contends with a high property crime rate of 34.09 incidents per 1,000 residents, nearly double the state average and triple the national average.
The city’s crimes per square mile metric is nearly ten times higher than the state average.
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Newport News
Newport News, situated in southeastern Virginia along the Virginia Peninsula and James River near its mouth, is a sizable coastal city. With a population of approximately 184,587 people, it bears a violent crime rate of 6.38 per 1,000 residents—nearly three times the state average but below the national median of 4 per 1,000 residents.
The city also grapples with a notable property crime rate of 19.48 per 1,000 residents, exceeding the state average by more than double but remaining beneath the national median of 19 per 1,000 residents.
Although Newport News’ crimes per square mile surpass the state average slightly, they still fall below it. Noteworthy for its naval station, aerospace industry, and recreational opportunities, Newport News remains a distinctive locale.
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Roanoke
Roanoke, situated in southwest Virginia amidst the Roanoke Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains, boasts a population of approximately 98,865 people. The city has a relatively low violent crime rate of 4.90 per 1,000 residents, which falls below both the state average and the national median. However, it remains higher than some other cities in Virginia.
Additionally, Roanoke exhibits a notable property crime rate of 1.77 per 1,000 residents, more than double the state average but still beneath the national median.
Although the city’s crimes per square mile statistic slightly exceeds the state average, it remains below the national median. Renowned for its picturesque location, diverse economy, and cultural attractions, Roanoke offers a unique blend of features to its residents.
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Richmond
Richmond, Virginia, serves as the state capital and stands as the second-largest city within the state, boasting a population of approximately 206,600 residents. The city exhibits a violent crime rate of 6.67 incidents per 1,000 residents, slightly surpassing the state average yet remaining below the national median.
Additionally, Richmond experiences a notable property crime rate of 32.64 incidents per 1,000 residents, surpassing the state average by more than twofold but still falling below the national median.
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Final Words
These cities in Virginia are considered among the most perilous according to multiple sources. However, various factors can influence the safety levels for different individuals or circumstances. Hence, it’s crucial to exercise caution and use common sense whether you’re visiting or residing in any city in Virginia or elsewhere.
