Arizona is a beautiful place to live, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's perfect. Is Arizona dangerous, though? Unfortunately, like with any other place, Arizona does have its lesser-safe options. Let's take a look at the most dangerous cities and/or towns in the state, according to the crime statistics - spots you probably don't want to hang out in once it's dark. Here are some of the places to avoid in Arizona after dark (with updates following the release of the 2022 list, linked at the end of the article):
1. Globe
Globe was, ironically, once known for being among the safest wild western mining towns. Nowadays, well, not so much. Globe had 2,142 violent crimes and 7,381 property crimes per 100,000 residents, and it has a 269% higher crime rate than the national average! Update: For 2022, Globe moved slightly to the 2nd for worst places in Arizona with regard to crime statistics, switching places with Tolleson. You may want to consider a quick visit, though, for the best Mexican food in Arizona!
2. Tolleson
Tolleson had just eight murders in 2020, but there were 460 aggravated assaults and 3,492 property crimes reported that year. Update: For 2022, the city of Tolleson took Globe's 1st ranking in the list.
3. Page
Page had 1,043 violent crimes in 2020, and 5,108 property crimes. Though its streets are usually safe, it's still smart to take precautions. Page is still absolutely beautiful, though! You should definitely checkout the gorgeous Hanging Gardens near Page. Update: For 2022, Page moved to the 5th spot in the list.
4. Winslow
Winslow hosts some wonderful quirks and a legendary street corner, and is not a place you'd usually feel unsafe after dark. It had just 10 murders in 2020. However, 85 rapes and 694 aggravated assaults were reported that year.
5. Tucson
Although Tucson has a vibrant music scene, and is a great place for nightlife, according to FBI statistics, it has one of the highest crime rates in the state. In 2020, there were 8 murders in Tucson, and 733 violent crimes as well. Update: For 2022, Tucson moved slightly to the 6th spot on this list. And it made the 2021 Condé Nast Traveler Hot List.
6. Tempe
The college town of Tempe falls in sixth place of the most dangerous towns in which to hang out at night. In 2020, there were 4,138 property crimes and 484 violent crimes. Update: For 2022, Tempe shifted slightly to the 7th spot on this list. Visit Tempe Beach Park for the best waterfront views.
7. Show Low
Show Low is a beautiful place to live and visit, but it's not without its crime. In 2020 there were 529 violent crimes and 3,828 property crimes. Violent crime has risen by about 35% year to year. Yikes! Update: However, Show Low has improved its crime statistics recently and moved almost off the list completely, to the 10th spot for 2022! For blow-your-tastebuds-away pie, don't miss America's Pie Company in Show Low.
8. Phoenix
Arizona's largest city comes in eighth on the list of most dangerous places to be at night. During the year of 2020, eight murders occurred and 733 violent crimes were reported. Phoenix's violent crime rate is around twice the national average. Update: And for 2022, Phoenix moved up the 9th spot on this list. It does have some neat themed restaurants, though, that you may wish to check out.
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9. Glendale
As the sun starts to set in Glendale, you'll enjoy a truly gorgeous setting, but you'll also want to secure your belongings. Though the population is just under 225,000 people, in 2020 4,078 property crimes were reported here. Update: Now for 2022, Glendale's statistics had improved to the point it is no longer included in this top ten list. But it does still have the largest and scariest haunted house in Arizona.
10. Kingman
Kingman is a small town, but in 2020 there were 16 rapes and 326 aggravated assaults reported. In addition, 3,883 property crimes occurred. Update: Kingman shifted up to the 8th spot on this top ten list for 2022. Check out the Alien Museum nearby!
On the bright side, Arizonans are some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. Here are nine reasons why!
Where does your town rank in terms of safety? Is it one of the places to avoid in Arizona after dark?
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