Lancaster County, situated in the south-central region of Pennsylvania, is home to approximately 545,000 residents. The county’s administrative center and largest urban area is Lancaster, which holds the distinction of being the oldest inland city in the United States.
Renowned for its Amish culture, agricultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene, notable attractions include the Lancaster Central Market, the Amish Farm and House, and the Fulton Theatre. Nonetheless, it’s important to note that not all areas within the county offer the same level of safety and tranquility.
According to data provided by CrimeGrade.org, certain neighborhoods within Lancaster County exhibit higher rates of both violent and property-related crimes compared to the national average. The following are five of the county’s neighborhoods that have been identified as having relatively higher levels of criminal activity, as indicated by the per capita crime map:
Columbia:
Columbia stands as a borough within Lancaster County, positioned along the banks of the Susquehanna River. This region boasts a rich historical significance, adorned with numerous notable sites and alluring destinations.
Among these are the Wright’s Ferry Mansion, the National Watch and Clock Museum, and the Turkey Hill Experience. However, it’s important to note that Columbia contends with a crime rate of 64.9 per 1,000 residents, surpassing the county average of 28.8 by more than twofold.
The borough grapples with notably elevated occurrences of robbery, assault, burglary, and theft. Additionally, Columbia has gained notoriety for its challenges related to substance abuse and gang involvement.
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Lancaster City:
Lancaster City stands within Lancaster County, positioned at the county’s heart. With a populace of around 59,000, it constitutes an urban zone. The city exhibits a crime rate of 56.9 for every 1,000 residents, a figure nearly two times greater than the county’s typical rate.
Notably, the city contends with elevated occurrences of homicide, rape, robbery, assault, and arson. Moreover, Lancaster City confronts environmental challenges encompassing air pollution and soil contamination.
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Ephrata:
Ephrata stands as a borough within Lancaster County, positioned to the northeast of Lancaster City. This suburban region accommodates roughly 13,000 inhabitants. The crime rate in Ephrata tallies at 51.9 per 1,000 residents, surpassing the county’s average.
The borough experiences elevated incidences of burglary, theft, auto theft, and vandalism. Additionally, Ephrata is susceptible to natural calamities like floods and storms.
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Elizabethtown:
Elizabethtown, situated southeast of Lancaster City in Lancaster County, is a borough with a modest population of around 11,000 residents. However, its crime rate stands at 46.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, surpassing the county’s average.
This area experiences elevated occurrences of robbery, assault, burglary, theft, and drug offenses. Additionally, Elizabethtown is notable for its traffic congestion and the noise pollution stemming from the adjacent highway.
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Lititz:
Lititz stands as an additional borough within Lancaster County, positioned to the north of Lancaster City. This rural region accommodates around 9,000 inhabitants. Notably, Lititz exhibits a crime rate of 41 for every 1,000 residents, surpassing the average for the county.
The borough experiences elevated incidents of assault, burglary, theft, and vandalism. Adding to its character, Lititz has gained renown for its eerie historical background and occurrences of paranormal phenomena.
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Conclusion
Here are the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Although there might be some positive features and room for enhancement, they also come with notable dangers and difficulties for both inhabitants and those who come to visit. Hence, it’s recommended to be cautious and attentive when journeying through or residing in these regions.
