Top 20 Most Dangerous Cities in Ohio

Ohio’s most dangerous cities in 2025 include Cleveland, East Cleveland, and Springfield, based on violent crime rates per 100,000 residents. Factors include poverty, drug activity, and unemployment.

Ohio, often referred to as the “Heart of It All,” is known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, like any state, it faces challenges with crime in certain areas. While many cities in Ohio offer a high quality of life, others struggle with higher crime rates. 

Before listing the cities, it is important to understand how crime rates are measured. The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program collects data on violent crimes (such as assault, robbery, rape, and homicide) and property crimes (including burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft). Crime rates are typically expressed per 100,000 residents to allow for fair comparisons between cities of different sizes. Several factors contribute to higher crime rates, including:

• Economic conditions (poverty, unemployment)
• Drug-related activity
• Gang presence
• Law enforcement resources
• Urban density

While crime statistics provide a general overview, they do not necessarily reflect the safety of every neighbourhood within a city. Some areas may be safer than others despite a city’s overall ranking.

Top 20 Most Dangerous Cities in Ohio

1. Cleveland

• Population: 383,331
• Violent Crime Rate: 1,703 per 100,000
• Total Crime Rate: 6,516 per 100,000 

Cleveland has the highest violent crime rate in Ohio, with assaults, robberies, and homicides being significant concerns. The city struggles with economic disparities, gang activity, and drug-related crimes, particularly in neighborhoods like Central, Kinsman, and Broadway–Slavic Village. However, community policing initiatives and economic development projects aim to reduce crime. The city also has a high property crime rate, including burglaries and vehicle thefts. Despite these challenges, downtown Cleveland and areas like Ohio City remain popular for residents and tourists.

2. East Cleveland

• Population: 17,047
• Violent Crime Rate: 1,603
• Total Crime Rate: 4,427 

East Cleveland, a small city bordering Cleveland, has one of the highest violent crime rates in the state. Poverty, unemployment, and abandoned properties contribute to its crime issues. The city has faced financial difficulties, leading to reduced public services, including policing. Efforts to revitalize the area through housing programs and business incentives are ongoing, but crime remains a major concern.

3. Springfield

• Population: 58,957
• Violent Crime Rate: 1,253
• Total Crime Rate: 6,012 

Springfield deals with drug-related crimes, theft, and violent assaults. The city has struggled with economic decline following manufacturing job losses. Certain neighborhoods, particularly near South Yellow Springs Street and East Main Street, report higher crime. Local law enforcement has increased patrols and community outreach programs to improve safety.

4. Toledo

• Population: 275,116
• Violent Crime Rate: 1,145
• Total Crime Rate: 4,139 

Toledo faces robberies, aggravated assaults, and property crimes, especially in areas like the Old South End and Junction neighborhoods. Economic struggles and opioid addiction have contributed to crime rates. The city has implemented gun violence reduction programs and youth mentorship initiatives to curb crime.

5. Dayton

• Population: 140,444
• Violent Crime Rate: 1,105
• Total Crime Rate: 5,813 

Dayton has high rates of violent crime and property offenses, particularly in the Westwood and Riverdale areas. The city has seen some success with community policing and neighborhood revitalization projects. However, poverty and drug trafficking remain persistent issues.

6. Canton

• Population: 70,863
• Violent Crime Rate: 1,005
• Total Crime Rate: 5,259 

Canton struggles with robberies and assaults, particularly near downtown and the Shorb Avenue area. The city has invested in surveillance cameras and neighborhood watch programs to improve safety. Economic challenges and a lack of well-paying jobs contribute to crime rates.

7. Whitehall

• Population: 18,944
• Violent Crime Rate: 989
• Total Crime Rate: 7,459 

Whitehall, a suburb of Columbus, has a high property crime rate, including car break-ins and burglaries. The city has increased police patrols and installed license plate readers to deter theft. Despite crime concerns, Whitehall has affordable housing and is close to major employers.

8. Akron

• Population: 197,375
• Violent Crime Rate: 785
• Total Crime Rate: 3,780 

Akron has seen a rise in gun violence and drug-related crimes, particularly in North Hill and East Akron. The city has launched violence intervention programs and expanded mental health services to address crime. Economic redevelopment in downtown Akron has helped improve safety in some areas.

9. Portsmouth

• Population: 20,094
• Violent Crime Rate: 769
• Total Crime Rate: 5,137 

Portsmouth, located along the Ohio River, struggles with drug trafficking and property crimes. The city has a high poverty rate and limited job opportunities. Law enforcement has partnered with federal agencies to combat opioid-related crimes.

10. Mount Healthy

• Population: 6,845
• Violent Crime Rate: 749
• Total Crime Rate: 4,169 

Despite its small size, Mount Healthy has a disproportionately high crime rate, primarily assaults and thefts. The city has increased police presence and community engagement to improve safety.

11. Van Wert

• Population: 10,531
• Violent Crime Rate: 444 per 100k
• Total Crimes Rate: 2,989

This small city experiences disproportionate crime rates for its size, primarily drug offenses and property crimes. Located near state borders, Van Wert deals with transient criminal activity along highway corridors. The police department has implemented business watch programs and improved lighting in downtown areas. Recent economic development has brought both opportunities and new challenges for law enforcement.

12. Cincinnati

• Population: 302,687
• Violent Crime Rate: 728
• Total Crime Rate: 4,957 

Cincinnati’s crime is concentrated in neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine and West End, where poverty and gang activity contribute to higher rates of armed robberies and aggravated assaults. The city has implemented innovative solutions like the Cincinnati Initiative to Reduce Violence (CIRV), a partnership between law enforcement and community organizations that has shown success in reducing gang-related homicides. Downtown and suburban areas like Hyde Park remain relatively safe, with vibrant business districts and lower crime rates. The police department’s focus on community policing has helped rebuild trust in high-crime areas.

13. Martins Ferry

• Population: 6,589
• Violent Crime Rate: 443 per 100k
• Total Crimes Rate: 919

Martins Ferry’s crime issues are primarily drug-related, stemming from its location along the Ohio River near major transportation routes. The small police force focuses on community policing strategies and works closely with neighboring jurisdictions. Economic struggles in this former industrial town contribute to property crimes, but tight-knit neighborhood networks help deter more serious offenses.

14. Lima

• Population: 36,908
• Violent Crime Rate: 709
• Total Crime Rate: 4,175 

Lima faces significant challenges with drug-related crimes, particularly in areas surrounding North Union Street and South Central Avenue. The decline of manufacturing jobs has contributed to economic struggles that fuel property crimes. Local law enforcement has partnered with the Allen County METRICH Enforcement Unit to combat opioid trafficking. Despite these issues, Lima’s historic downtown area has seen revitalization efforts that are improving safety and attracting new businesses.

15. Youngstown

• Population: 64,152
• Violent Crime Rate: 677
• Total Crime Rate: 3,828 

Youngstown’s crime issues stem largely from its economic decline following the collapse of steel industries, with abandoned properties creating hotspots for criminal activity. The South Side and East Side neighborhoods experience higher rates of violent crime. The city has responded with blight removal programs and youth employment initiatives. Youngstown State University’s police force collaborates with city officers to patrol surrounding areas, creating safer zones near campus.

16. Trotwood

• Population: 24,410
• Violent Crime Rate: 607
• Total Crime Rate: 4,000 

This Dayton suburb struggles with property crimes and occasional violent incidents, particularly along Salem Avenue corridor. Trotwood has invested in automated license plate readers and increased police visibility in shopping districts. The city’s location near major highways makes it vulnerable to transient criminal activity. Community programs like neighborhood watch groups have shown success in reducing burglary rates in residential areas.

17. North College Hill

• Population: 9,310
• Violent Crime Rate: 553
• Total Crime Rate: 3,627

Despite its small size, North College Hill faces disproportionate crime rates, particularly vehicle break-ins and domestic violence incidents. The police department has implemented direct patrol strategies focusing on high-crime apartment complexes. Recent economic development along Hamilton Avenue has brought new businesses but also created new challenges with retail theft. The city benefits from strong community-police partnerships that help identify crime patterns early.

18. Garfield Heights

• Population: 27,673
• Violent Crime Rate: 516
• Total Crime Rate: 2,400

This Cleveland suburb experiences higher-than-average property crime, particularly in areas near transportation hubs. The city has installed surveillance cameras in business districts and implemented a real-time crime center to monitor high-risk areas. Garfield Heights’ location between major highways makes it susceptible to criminal activity spilling over from neighboring communities. Recent investments in park security have reduced incidents in public spaces.

19. Maple Heights

• Population: 22,178
• Violent Crime Rate: 505
• Total Crime Rate: 1,262

Maple Heights deals primarily with property crimes and occasional violent incidents, concentrated in specific apartment complexes. The city has launched a rental property inspection program to improve living conditions and reduce crime magnets. Police have focused on traffic enforcement as a strategy to intercept criminal activity. Community events and youth programs aim to address root causes of crime.

20. Lorain

• Population: 63,832
• Violent Crime Rate: 480
• Total Crime Rate: 2,291

Lorain’s crime is concentrated in the central and southside neighborhoods, with challenges including drug trafficking and domestic violence. The city’s waterfront redevelopment has improved safety in downtown areas while displacing some criminal activity to adjacent neighborhoods. Lorain’s police department has emphasized foot patrols and community engagement to build trust. The Hispanic community’s strong neighborhood networks have helped reduce crime in some areas.

Contributing factors to crime

Crime levels in these cities are shaped by several interlinked factors:

• Economic hardship: High poverty and unemployment contribute significantly to both violent and property crimes.
• Urban density: Higher population density often correlates with increased crime.
• Drug trafficking: Areas with elevated drug activity often report more violent offences.
• Gang presence: Gang-related activity significantly impacts robbery, assault, and firearm offences.
• Education and services: Limited access to education, mental health services, and job opportunities can fuel crime cycles.

Final thoughts

Ohio is a diverse state with many safe and thriving communities. However, certain cities face higher crime rates, often linked to economic and social challenges. While statistics provide an overview, crime can vary greatly within a city, and many neighbourhoods remain secure. By staying informed and taking precautions, residents and visitors can navigate Ohio safely.

For those considering relocation, researching specific areas and consulting local crime maps can provide a clearer picture of safety in different parts of the state.