Ohio’s cities present a diverse landscape in terms of safety, with some areas experiencing high rates of violent crime while others remain relatively peaceful. Based on the latest FBI violent crime data, this article explores the most dangerous and safest cities in Ohio.
Most Dangerous Cities in Ohio
1. Cleveland
Cleveland is the most dangerous city in Ohio. With a population of 367,991, it has a very high violent crime rate. The crime rate in Cleveland is 5.5 times higher than the average for Ohio and 4.3 times higher than the national average. Not only is it the most dangerous city in Ohio, but Cleveland is also one of the most dangerous cities in the United States.
The city’s crime problems are made worse by widespread poverty, high unemployment, and issues related to the drug trade. Cleveland also has one of the highest murder rates in the country, with residents having a 1 in 58 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime. In 2023, there were 165 murders, 1,491 robberies, and 4,280 assaults.
2. Chillicothe
Chillicothe is another one of Ohio’s most dangerous cities. Despite having a small population of around 22,000, its crime rate is very high—about four times the state average and 3.7 times the national average. The city struggles with a serious problem of violent crimes, including a particularly high rate of sexual assaults, which is 2.8 times the national average.
In 2023, there were 112 violent crimes and 1,432 property crimes in Chillicothe. The city also faces major drug issues, with many drug-related crimes and a high number of overdose deaths each year. Poverty is another big problem, with 18% of the population living below the poverty line. Overall, residents of Chillicothe have a 1 in 13 chance of becoming a victim of any type of crime.
3. Canton
Canton is another of Ohio’s most dangerous cities because of its high crime rate. With a population of 70,000, Canton has a crime rate of 6,293 per 100,000 people, which is 168% higher than the national average. In 2022, the city saw over 1,000 violent crimes, including 16 murders, 155 robberies, and 729 assaults.
Residents of Canton have a 1 in 16 chance of becoming a victim of crime. Canton also struggles with poverty, having one of the highest poverty rates in Ohio at 30%. The city also has an unemployment rate of 10%, which contributes to the high crime rate.
4. Springfield
Springfield, with a population of 58,736, has a crime rate of 5,711 per 100,000 people, making it 143% more dangerous than the national average and 164% more dangerous than the average for Ohio. Like many other Ohio cities, Springfield’s crime rate is influenced by high poverty and limited job opportunities.
The city has an 8.9% unemployment rate and a 23% poverty rate, both of which contribute to the rising crime rates. In 2023, Springfield had 338 violent crimes, including 8 murders, 107 burglaries, and 171 assaults. The chance of becoming a victim of crime in Springfield is 1 in 18.
5. Portsmouth
Portsmouth is another one of Ohio’s most dangerous cities. Located on the north bank of the Ohio River, the city has a population of 20,000 and a crime rate of 5,360 per 100,000 residents, making it 128% more dangerous than the national average.
Portsmouth also struggles with high poverty, with a poverty rate of 35%, which is more than double the national average. The unemployment rate is also very high at 10%, the 5th highest in Ohio. Portsmouth faces serious problems related to drug use. The drug overdose rate in Scioto County, where Portsmouth is located, is the highest in the state.
Drug issues have led to a rise in Hepatitis C cases and an increase in drug-related deaths. There have also been spikes in robberies, murders, and cases of children being born addicted to prescription drugs. These issues make Portsmouth one of the most difficult cities to live in Ohio.
Safest Cities in Ohio
1. Broadview Heights
The safest city in Ohio is Broadview Heights, a suburb of Cleveland with a population of 19,242. The city has an exceptionally low crime rate of just 110 per 100,000 people, which is 95% lower than the Ohio state average.
Broadview Heights is a peaceful community with a top-rated school system and an active local theater scene that residents enjoy. The median home price in Broadview Heights is $317,600, making it a desirable place to live.
2. New Philadelphia
New Philadelphia is another one of Ohio’s safest cities. Located along the Tuscarawas River, this small city has a population of 17,677 and sits between Columbus, Akron, and Pittsburgh. Known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and rural charm, New Philadelphia is a very safe place to live.
The crime rate is just 131 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it 94% safer than the national average. In fact, your chance of becoming a victim of any crime in New Philadelphia is 1 in 762, and the chance of being a victim of a violent crime is even lower at 1 in 4,377.
3. Sagamore Hills
Sagamore Hills is another of Ohio’s safest cities. Located in Summit County near Cleveland, this community is often called a “bedroom community” because it’s primarily residential. The overall crime rate in Sagamore Hills is 91% lower than the national average, making it a very safe place to live.
The area is also right next to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, offering plenty of outdoor activities. With its peaceful atmosphere and access to nature, Sagamore Hills is considered one of the best and safest places to live in Ohio.
4. Olmstead Falls
Olmstead Falls is a small city in Cuyahoga County, with a population of 9,024. As a suburb of Cleveland, it has a very low crime rate of 360 per 100,000 people, which is 83% lower than the Ohio state average.
The city is home to Grand Pacific Junction, a historic district that showcases much of the area’s 19th-century history. Olmstead Falls offers a great combination of livability, close proximity to Cleveland, and affordability, making it a desirable place to live.
5. North Ridgeville
North Ridgeville, located in Lorain County, has a population of 35,380. The city’s total crime rate is just 363 per 100,000 people, which is 83% lower than the Ohio state average. Known as the fastest-growing city in Northern Ohio, North Ridgeville is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in the state.
The city is home to the 350,000-square-foot Riddell production center, where NFL and NCAA equipment is made. North Ridgeville also offers plenty of parks and recreational areas, making it a great place for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Ohio’s cities present stark contrasts in safety levels, with Cleveland leading the state in violence while Broadview Heights stands out as a model of security. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for residents considering relocation or businesses evaluating potential locations.
Reference Article (Most Dangerous Cities in Ohio)
Reference Article (Safest Cities in Ohio)