Pennsylvania, known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, also faces the stark reality of urban crime. This article delves into the top 10 most dangerous cities in the Keystone State, examining the latest crime statistics and societal factors influencing these rankings.
1. McKees Rocks
- Population: ~6,000
- Crime Rate: 64.09 incidents per 1,000 people
- Violent Crimes: 100 in 2018; 60 aggravated assaults, 27 robberies, 8 rapes, 5 murders
- Property Crimes: 280 in 2018; majority being larceny/thefts
McKees Rocks, despite its small size, emerges as Pennsylvania’s most dangerous city. The crime rate here is 173% higher than the national average, presenting a stark contrast to its small population.
2. Darby
- Population: 10,600
- Crime Rate: 46.25 per 1,000 people
- Murders: 152 in 2021
- Property Crime Rate: High
Darby, a Philadelphia suburb, records a high number of murders relative to its population. The combined rate of violent and property crimes in Darby gives residents a 1 in 22 chance of being a victim.
3. Chester
- Population: 32,600
- Crime Rate: 43.89 per 1,000 individuals
- Economic Status: High unemployment and poverty
- Median Home Price: $66,800
Chester’s crime rate is 115% higher than Pennsylvania’s average, exacerbated by socio-economic challenges. The city’s struggle with unemployment and poverty is a significant contributing factor to its high crime rate.
4. McKeesport
- Population: 17,700
- Crime Rate: 42.91 incidents per 1,000 individuals
- Violent Crimes: 332 in 2021
- Property Crimes: 542 in 2021
McKeesport, located near Pittsburgh, has a noteworthy crime rate with a significant number of both violent and property crimes, reflecting broader societal issues in the suburb.
5. Yeadon
- Population: 11,512 (2018)
- Crime Rate: 40.83 per 1,000 residents
- Violent Crimes: 747 in 2021
- Property Crimes: 3,336 in 2021
Yeadon, another suburb of Philadelphia, has a crime rate considerably higher than the national average. The high numbers of both violent and property crimes contribute to its ranking.
6. Ambridge
- Population: 7,000
- Crime Rate: 40.57 incidences per 1,000 people
- Victim Probability: 1 in 39 chance
Located in Beaver County, western Pennsylvania, Ambridge’s crime rate is 73% higher than the U.S. average. Despite its small population, the town faces significant safety challenges.
7. Philadelphia
- Population: 1.6 million
- Crime Rate: 97% higher than the state average
- Victim Probability: 1 in 25 chance
- Notable Areas: Higher crime rates in North and West Philadelphia neighborhoods
Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania, exhibits a varied crime landscape with certain neighborhoods significantly more affected by crime.
8. Pottstown
- Population: 23,400
- Crime Rate: 88% higher than the state average
- Crimes in 2021: 3,823 reported
Pottstown’s crime rate is significantly higher than the state average, reflecting a broader issue of urban crime in Pennsylvania.
9. Reading
- Population: 95,000
- Crime Rate: 81% higher than the state average
- Violent Crimes in 2022: 690
- Property Crimes in 2022: 2,742
Reading, located in Berks County, faces substantial crime issues, with its crime rate substantially higher than the state’s average.
10. Johnstown
- Population: 18,400
- Crime Rate: 68% higher than the state average
- Violent and Property Crimes: Approximately 808 in 2021
Johnstown, with its relatively high crime rate, concludes the list of Pennsylvania’s most dangerous cities. The city faces ongoing challenges with both violent and property crimes.
Statewide Crime Dynamics in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s crime landscape is complex, with a notable decline in property crime by 42% in 2022 but an increase in violent crime by 27%, from 3.1 to 3.9 occurrences per 1,000 people. Violent crime accounted for 19% of all crimes in the state, slightly higher than the national average of 17%.
Concluding Thoughts
The crime statistics and trends in these cities highlight the urgent need for focused crime prevention and community resilience efforts. While Pennsylvania boasts many safe and thriving communities, these ten cities face significant challenges that require comprehensive strategies to enhance safety and quality of life for their residents.
