Ohio is home to vibrant cities, scenic state parks, rich history, and some of the Midwest’s most recognizable attractions. From the revitalized waterfront in Cleveland to the natural beauty of Hocking Hills, the Buckeye State offers plenty of reasons to visit and call it home.
However, like many states across the country, Ohio also faces public safety challenges in certain communities. While many neighborhoods remain safe and welcoming, some cities continue to report higher-than-average rates of violent crime compared to state and national averages.
Quick Guide
- State: Ohio
- Population: Approximately 11.8 million
- Largest City: Cleveland
- Ranking Method: Violent crimes per 100,000 residents
- Crimes Included: Assault, robbery, rape, and homicide
- Safest Approach for Visitors: Stay informed, research neighborhoods, and follow local safety recommendations
- Source: areavibes
This ranking highlights the 10 most dangerous cities in Ohio based on violent crime rates per 100,000 residents. The data provides a closer look at where crime remains a concern while also recognizing that local leaders, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations continue working to improve safety and quality of life.
10. Akron
- Population: 203,042
- 820 violent crimes per 100k
- violent crimes per day: 2.25
- chance of being a victim: 1 in 122
- Total Crimes / 100k: 3,775
Rounding out our list at #10 is Akron, OH. With a population of 203,042 and a violent crime rate of 820 per 100,000 people (179% higher than the Ohio average), some parts of Akron are incredible unsafe. The violent crime rate consists of 612 counts of assault, 82 counts of robbery, 113 counts of rape and 13 counts of homicide. Residents can expect to have a 1 in 122 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime.
9. Cincinnati
- Population: 309,429
- 846 violent crimes per 100k
- violent crimes per day: 2.32
- chance of being a victim: 1 in 118
- Total Crimes / 100k: 4,675
Economic conditions, education, social environment, law enforcement and urbanization can all have an impact on crime rates. Feeling the effects of most of those issues, Cincinnati, OH comes in as the 9th most dangerous city in Ohio with a violent crime rate of 846 per 100,000 people. If we break that down, the city sees 2.32 violent crimes per day and residents have a 1 in 118 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime.
8. North College Hill
- Population: 9,523
- 915 violent crimes per 100k
- violent crimes per day: 2.51
- chance of being a victim: 1 in 109
- Total Crimes / 100k: 4,085
North College Hill, OH is another one of the most dangerous cities in Ohio and tops the list at #8. The city has a population of 9,523 and a violent crime rate of 915 per 100,000 people…