Maryland is a state known for its rich history, diverse communities, and scenic landscapes. From the waterfront neighborhoods along the Chesapeake Bay to the vibrant streets of Baltimore and the state’s many historic towns, Maryland offers residents a unique blend of culture, education, and economic opportunity.
Like every state, however, Maryland experiences varying crime rates from one community to another. While many cities and towns remain safe places to live, work, and visit, some municipalities report higher-than-average violent crime rates based on annual law enforcement data.
Quick Guide
- State: Maryland
- Region: Mid-Atlantic, United States
- Ranking Based On: Violent crimes per 100,000 residents
- Includes: Assault, robbery, rape, and homicide
- Best For: Residents researching relocation, travelers, and safety-conscious visitors
- Important Note: Crime rates can vary significantly between neighborhoods, and many parts of these cities remain safe and vibrant.
- Source: areavibes
This ranking highlights the 10 cities in Maryland with the highest reported violent crime rates per 100,000 residents. The figures are intended to provide context rather than define an entire community. Crime levels can differ significantly between neighborhoods, and many of these cities continue investing in public safety initiatives, community policing, and crime prevention programs.
10. Hagerstown
- Population: 40,940
- 714 violent crimes per 100k
- violent crimes per day: 1.96
- chance of being a victim: 1 in 140
- Total Crimes / 100k: 3,177
Rounding out our list at #10 is Hagerstown, MD. With a population of 40,940 and a violent crime rate of 714 per 100,000 people (70% higher than the Maryland average), some parts of Hagerstown are incredible unsafe.
The violent crime rate consists of 409 counts of assault, 223 counts of robbery, 73 counts of rape and 9 counts of homicide. Residents can expect to have a 1 in 140 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime.
9. District Heights
- Population: 6,150
- 780 violent crimes per 100k
- violent crimes per day: 2.14
- chance of being a victim: 1 in 128
- Total Crimes / 100k: 2,461
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, District Heights, MD comes in as the 9th most dangerous city in Maryland with a violent crime rate of 780 per 100,000 people.…