New Mexico, known for its rich culture and history, unfortunately also has a side that’s less celebrated. Certain cities in the state are grappling with high crime rates, making them less desirable places to live.
In this article, we explore the top 10 dangerous cities in New Mexico, analyzing crime statistics and other factors contributing to their rankings. Understanding these aspects is crucial, whether you’re a resident, planning to move, or just passing through.
1. Los Lunas
- Population: 15,929
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,286
- Property Crimes Per 100k: 4,074
Los Lunas tops the list with its high crime rates. Despite being one of the wealthiest cities in New Mexico, it faces significant safety challenges. Residents have a 1 in 24 chance of being a victim of property crime and a 1 in 77 chance of experiencing violent crimes.
2. Roswell
- Population: 47,533
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: 849
- Property Crimes Per 100k: 3,772
Best known for the 1947 UFO incident, Roswell is also notorious for its crime rates. The city has a high probability of property crimes, with larceny rates standing notably high.
3. Clovis
- Population: 38,734
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: 673
- Property Crimes Per 100k: 3,805
Clovis, while diverse and culturally rich, struggles with safety issues, ranking high in violent crimes, especially rapes and murders.
4. Artesia
- Population: 12,366
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: 525
- Property Crimes Per 100k: 3,040
Artesia’s crime rates are alarming considering its small population. The city ranks ninth in both violent and property crime in New Mexico.
5. Las Cruces
- Population: 103,520
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: 496
- Property Crimes Per 100k: 3,580
As the second-largest city in the state, Las Cruces faces a 1 in 201 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 27 chance of property crime.
6. Taos
- Population: 6,000
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: 318
- Property Crimes Per 100k: 6,316
Though known for its artistic community, Taos experiences high property crime rates, 134% above the state average.
7. Socorro
- Population: 9,069
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: N/A
- Property Crimes Per 100k: N/A
Socorro experiences crime rates more than 30% above the state average, with a significant number of both violent and property crimes.
8. Albuquerque
- Population: 553,684
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: N/A
- Property Crimes Per 100k: N/A
Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, faces a high number of crimes due to its size. The odds of being a crime victim here are 1 in 16.
9. Hobbs
- Population: 34,543
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: N/A
- Property Crimes Per 100k: N/A
Hobbs has a crime victim probability of 1 in 19, with both property crime and violent crime rates being significant.
10. Roswell (Alternate Source)
- Population: 48,623
- Violent Crimes Per 100k: N/A
- Property Crimes Per 100k: N/A
Another source places Roswell at the tenth position, citing high rates of both property and violent crimes.
Conclusion
The high crime rates in these cities are a matter of concern for residents and authorities alike. While efforts are being made to improve safety and reduce crime, it’s important for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Understanding the dynamics of these cities can help in making informed decisions about living in or visiting them.
Safety is a shared responsibility, and it’s crucial for communities to work together with law enforcement to create safer environments. Remember, these statistics represent a moment in time and are subject to change as efforts to combat crime evolve.
