Based on violent and property crimes, it seems no corner of The Natural State is completely free of danger. Here are the top ten most dangerous cities in Arkansas. Thanks to the fine folks over at RoadSnacks, we know that each year the FBI releases statewide crime data that the site then uses to compile lists of the country’s most dangerous destinations. If you were curious what cities made the list, then look no further (we've updated for each city after the most recent data for 2022):
1. Little Rock
Unfortunately Little Rock is still the number one city for crime in Arkansas. According to the FBI, residents of the capitol have a 1 in 16 chance of being a victim of a property crime. Little Rock's high crime rate is one of the reasons Arkansas is rated as the 4th most dangerous state in the nation following Alaska, New Mexico, and Louisiana. Update: Little Rock actually moved to the 3rd spot on the list for 2022! Be sure to check out the largest flea market in Arkansas there for some great deals.
2. Helena-West Helena
Helena-West Helena does have the Arkansas Community of Excellence award for economic growth but unfortunately the city's crime has grown as well. In 2019, this area saw 11 murders and 187 violent crimes. That's why it's listed as one of the most dangerous places to avoid in Arkansas. Update: Unfortunately, crime rates in Helena-West Helena have worsened, moving it to the #1 spot on the list for 2022. Check out this strange phenomenon in the area.
3. West Memphis
Thankfully this city has not seen another gut-wrenching spree since the West Memphis Three but it has moved up to the 3rd most dangerous city in the state. In addition to the 1 in 50 chance of being a victim of a violent crime, residents also face a high chance of becoming a victim of theft or arson. Update: West Memphis shifted to the 5th spot on the list for 2022!
4. El Dorado
Not all that glitters is gold in El Dorado. The city had quite the jump in ranking in recent years. Violent crime has stayed about the same, but theft and arson are up. Residents have a 1 in 74 chance of being victims of a violent crime and a 1 and 17 chance of falling prey to a property crime. Update: El Dorado moved to the 7th spot on the list for 2022 of most dangerous towns in Arkansas! And it has one of the best cultural scenes in Arkansas, too.
5. Osceola
Osceola has made improvements since the city had been ranked 2nd for 2019 but there's still some pretty concerning statistics. Citizens have a 1 in 38 chance of being a victim of rape, murder or aggravated assault as well as a 1 in 21 chance for property crime. Update: For 2022, the city of Osceola has continued its improvements with crime rates, slightly shifting to the 6th spot on the list.
6. Blytheville
Although Blytheville has one of the largest drive-thru Christmas displays, it seems the holiday cheer doesn't last the whole year. Folks have a 1 in 16.5 chance to become of victim of property crime but that's not the worst part. The city's population has continue to decline but crime has continued to increase each year. Update: Blytheville has made significant improvements in its crime statistics, moving out of the top ten list for 2022.
7. Fort Smith
From its multi-tiered waterfall to its magical trolley ride, Fort Smith has a lot to offer. Unfortunately, this charming city is also home to some violent crime. If you live in this lovely town, you have a 1 in 17 chance of being the victim of a property crime. You also have a 1 in 102 chance of falling prey to a violent crime. So when you're exploring the area's stunning scenery, make sure to keep your eye on your valuables! Update: Fort Smith also has made significant improvements in its crime statistics, moving down to the 10th spot for 2022.
8. Jacksonville
Jacksonville's crime rate has continued to climb. This Little Rock suburb has the 14th highest crime rate in the state! Stay safe out there, readers! Update: Jacksonville has made improvements in its crime statistics, also moving out of the top ten list for 2022. And you can enjoy some of the best catfish in Arkansas in Jacksonville!
9. Paragould
Locals call this the "friendly city," but that doesn't mean it's without some crime. Paragould residents have a 1 in 21 chance of being the victim of a property crime.
10. Hot Springs
Most people know Hot Springs for its upscale flea market and its historical national park, but its also harboring a dangerous secret. When it comes to property crime, this picturesque city ranks number one. However, Hot Springs has a lower violent crime rate, which brings its overall ranking down to 10. Update: And in 2022, Hot Springs moved off the list of the 10 most dangerous cities in Arkansas!
Did you guess the top ten most dangerous cities in Arkansas correctly? Does any particular city on the list surprise you? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
As we already know, Arkansas isn't all bad! Here are a few reasons why we're thankful for living in the Natural State.
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