11 Most Dangerous Cities in New York
- Watertown
- Albany
- Binghamton
- Rochester
- Schenectady
- Utica
- Syracuse
- Buffalo
- Niagara Falls
- Newburgh
- Johnson City
1. Watertown
Watertown is the most dangerous city in New York. This city, located just 30 miles south of the Canadian border, thrives in part due to shopping from Canadian visitors. However, Watertown's crime rates are a major concern, sitting at a staggering 104% higher than the national average. In fact, statistics show a 1 in 22 chance of becoming a victim of crime here. Larceny-theft is the most common offense, with a reported 743 cases in 2019 alone.
2. Albany
Albany, the historic capital of New York state with a population of around 100,826, also grapples with crime. Despite its rich history, Albany has crime rates that are 103% higher than the national average, making it one of the worst places to live in New York. That means you have a 1 in 22 chance of becoming a victim of crime there. Notably, Albany's violent crime rate was 837 per 100,000 residents in 2018, even exceeding New York City's rate of 541 during that same year.
3. Binghamton
Binghamton, New York, with a population of around 47,115, boasts a colorful history of producing cigars, shoes, and even computers. However, despite its interesting past, the city currently faces challenges. Crime rates in Binghamton are significantly higher than the national average, with a 1 in 23 chance of residents becoming a victim. This is concerning as the crime rate sits at a staggering 88% above the national benchmark.
4. Rochester
Rochester, a city of 211,328 residents, is nicknamed "the Flour City" and "the Flower City" reflecting its rich history in both flour production and floriculture. However, it's important to be aware of crime rates when considering a place to live. In Rochester, you have a 1 in 24 chance of becoming a victim of crime, with crime rates 86% higher than the national average. This means Rochester ranks among the 4% least safe cities in the U.S.
5. Schenectady
Schenectady, a city in Schenectady County, New York, carries a historical name derived from the Mohawk word "skahnéhtati," meaning "beyond the pines." Its population sits around 68,809, but it's important to consider the city's public safety challenges. Schenectady's crime rates are concerning, with statistics showing they are 80% higher than the national average. This translates to a 1 in 24 chance of becoming a victim of crime, and the violent crime rate is double the US average.
6. Utica
Utica is also one of the worst cities in New York due to its high crime rates, which are 74% higher than the US average. This city of 64,081 residents, sits nestled at the base of the Adirondack Mountains along the Mohawk River. It's become a haven for refugees seeking a new life due to its low cost of living, fostering a rich cultural tapestry. However, it's important to be aware that Utica's crime rates are significantly higher than the national average, with a 1 in 25 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
7. Syracuse
Established in 1820 and named after the ancient Greek city of the same name, Syracuse is the economic and educational hub of Central New York, boasting a population of 148,620. It's important to note, however, that Syracuse also has a high crime rate. In fact, it's 70% higher than the national average, and there's a 1 in 26 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
8. Buffalo
Buffalo, the largest city in Western New York with a population of 278,349, has a complex reputation. While it offers a unique cultural experience, it's important to be aware of its crime rates. Buffalo's crime rates are 70% higher than the national average, placing you at a 1 in 26 chance of becoming a victim of crime. Despite its revitalization efforts, Buffalo statistically ranks safer than only 5% of U.S. cities.
9. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, with a population of 48,671, is located adjacent to the Niagara River, directly across from Niagara Falls, Ontario. While the natural wonder itself is a marvel, it's important to be aware of the area's crime rates. Niagara Falls struggles with violent and property crime, particularly gun violence, and has a crime rate 58% higher than the national average. This means you have a 1 in 28 chance of becoming a victim of crime. If you're visiting New York, you may want to consider enjoying the view of the falls from the Canadian side.
10. Newburgh
Newburgh, a city in Orange County with a population of 28,501, faces challenges with crime. Newburgh is more dangerous than 95% of U.S. cities, and statistics show you have a 1 in 28 chance of becoming a victim of crime there. This rate is 54% higher than the national average, with gang activity being a significant contributor.
11. Johnson City
Johnson City, a village of 15,080 residents in Broome County, is part of the "Triple Cities" alongside Endicott and Binghamton. While the community offers a village atmosphere, it's important to be aware of its crime rates. Johnson City has a crime index of 317, which is 34% higher than the national average. This means you have a 1 in 33 chance of becoming a victim of crime here.