Missouri not only contends with baseball rivalries and rural idiosyncrasies but also harbors several perilous locales, earning it the distinction of being the fifth most dangerous state in the nation. Beyond disputes among St. Louis Cardinal fans and ostentatious displays of firearms, residents face pressing concerns that transcend trivial matters. This comprehensive list, born out of a commitment to informing those considering a move or currently residing in Missouri, sheds light on the state’s most precarious areas for 2023.
Unveiling Missouri’s Most Hazardous Places
Missouri residents confront the stark reality of residing in the nation’s fifth most dangerous state, transcending surface-level concerns like fan conflicts and rural displays. Escalating rates of violent and property crimes, exceeding national averages, particularly impact major cities such as Kansas City and Springfield, fostering a palpable unease.
This compiled list, grounded in pragmatic insights from meticulously analyzed data covering 110 cities and the latest FBI crime report, serves as a vital resource. It aims to inform individuals contemplating a move, offering a factual narrative rooted in statistical evidence.
As Missouri grapples with persistent crime challenges, the initiative prioritizes empowering residents with data for informed decision-making, highlighting the imperative of securing safer living environments.
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Top 5 Risky Places to Live
1. St. Louis – Missouri’s Most Dangerous City: St. Louis, famed for the Gateway Arch, holds the dubious distinction of being Missouri’s most perilous city. With a staggering 6,017 reported incidents of violent crimes in 2020, including rape, murder, robbery, and assault, it stands as the state’s epicenter of criminal activity. Notorious for its high murder rate and a myriad of property crimes, including a haunting historical exorcism case, St. Louis remains a city where personal safety is a significant concern.
2. Springfield – Persistent Peril in Missouri’s Third-Largest City: For the third consecutive year, Springfield maintains its position as Missouri’s second most dangerous city. Despite not topping the charts in either violent or property crimes, its fifth-place rankings in both categories collectively propel it to the top of the list. Notable for a high rate of rape cases and burglaries, Springfield’s unsolved mysteries, such as “The Springfield Three” disappearance, add to the city’s aura of danger.
3. Nevada – Unexpected Crime Woes in a Missouri Town: Contrary to expectations, we’re not heading to the bustling Las Vegas, but rather to Nevada, Missouri. Despite its modest population of 8,246, this town faces a significant crime problem, particularly concerning violent crime. With 149 aggravated assaults and 9 sexual assaults, this small community raises concerns about personal safety despite its seemingly tranquil setting.
4. Kennett – Sheryl Crow’s Hometown Grapples with Crime: Nestled near the Arkansas border, Kennett, birthplace of singer Sheryl Crow, faces a disproportionate crime challenge. Despite its rural location, the town grapples with the highest rate of burglaries in the state and alarming rates of violent crimes, including sexual assaults. Crime, particularly theft, remains a notable concern for Kennett’s 10,005 residents.
5. Branson – Tourist Hub with a High Crime Price: Branson, hailed as the Live Entertainment Capital of the World and a popular tourist destination, contends with a dark side: it has the highest property crime rate in Missouri. With an overall crime rate more than four times the national average, visitors and residents alike face significant risks of theft and damage. Despite its entertainment allure, Branson remains a city where caution is warranted, especially after enjoying one of its many shows.