New York is one of the most recognizable states in America, known for its world-famous landmarks, diverse communities, thriving economy, and rich cultural heritage. From the fast-paced streets of New York City to the scenic landscapes of Upstate New York, the state offers residents a wide variety of lifestyles and opportunities.
Despite its many strengths, some communities continue to face challenges related to public safety. Crime rates can vary significantly from one city to another, and understanding these differences can help residents, visitors, and policymakers make informed decisions.
Quick Guide
- State: New York
- Ranking Based On: Violent crimes per 100,000 residents
- Key Factors: Assault, robbery, rape, and homicide rates
- Safest Practice: Stay aware of local conditions and follow community safety recommendations
- Important Note: Crime rates can vary significantly between neighborhoods within the same city
- Source: Areavibes
The following ranking is based on reported violent crime rates per 100,000 residents. While crime statistics provide valuable insight, they do not tell the full story of any community. Many of these cities are actively investing in neighborhood revitalization, law enforcement initiatives, youth programs, and economic development efforts designed to improve safety and quality of life.
10. Rochester
- Population: 211,665
- 582 violent crimes per 100k
- violent crimes per day: 1.60
- chance of being a victim: 1 in 172
- Total Crimes / 100k: 3,872
Rounding out our list at #10 is Rochester, NY. With a population of 211,665 and a violent crime rate of 582 per 100,000 people (53% higher than the New York average), some parts of Rochester are incredible unsafe.
The violent crime rate consists of 397 counts of assault, 153 counts of robbery, 18 counts of rape and 13 counts of homicide. Residents can expect to have a 1 in 172 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime.
9. Watertown
- Population: 26,084
- 599 violent crimes per 100k
- violent crimes per day: 1.64
- chance of being a victim: 1 in 167
- Total Crimes / 100k: 4,528
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, Watertown, NY comes in as the 9th most dangerous city in New York with a violent crime rate of 599 per 100,000 people.
If we break that down, the city sees 1.64 violent crimes per day and residents have a 1 in 167 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime.
8. Jamestown
- Population: 30,127
- 620 violent crimes per 100k
- violent crimes per day: 1.70
- chance of being a victim: 1 in 161
- Total Crimes / 100k: 2,935
Jamestown, NY is another one of the most dangerous cities in New York and tops the list at #8. The city has a population of 30,127 and a violent crime rate of 620 per 100,000 people. Of those crimes, there were 436 counts of assault, 87 counts of robbery, 79 counts of rape and 18 counts of homicide. All told, the Jamestown violent crime rate is 63% higher than the New York average………..Read full article
