Written by Aaron R. Winston
Last Updated: June 7, 2024 6:13pm CDT
Michigan is a state in the Great Lakes and Midwestern regions of the United States, notable for its diverse landscape and carmaker history.
It is the only state in the US to consist of two peninsulas, the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, which are separated by the Straits of Mackinac (waterways connecting Lake Michigan and Lake Huron).
Michigan’s name is derived from the Ojibwe word “mishigamaa,” meaning “large water” or “large lake.” This name aptly reflects its geography, as the state is bordered by four of the five Great Lakes and contains over 11,000 inland lakes.
The state’s economy has historically been driven by the automotive industry, with Detroit, its largest city, known as the “Motor City” due to the presence of major automobile companies.
Additionally, Michigan has a robust agricultural sector, being a leading producer of fruits such as cherries, apples, and blueberries in the United States. Although smaller, tourism is another vital part of Michigan’s economy.
Unfortunately, like any other state in the region, Michigan has its share of crime and poverty-related challenges even though communities and law enforcement agencies strive earnestly to mitigate them.
This article will focus on the state’s crime trends and review a list of Michigan’s top 10 most dangerous cities, including details about each city’s various crime rate stats and poverty stats to support these claims.
With that said, let’s get started discussing the crime rates in the state of Michigan.
Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan Map and Crime Rate Trends
In this article, we aim to understand Michigan’s crimes, potential causes, and cities with the most crime while appreciating the crime prevention efforts made by local communities and law enforcement to ensure better public safety.
As always, we urge our readers not to focus solely on the recent high crime numbers in Michigan but to explore how various underlying factors contribute to crime being more of a problem in certain areas.
Michigan Crime Rate Ranking and Data Trends
Before we begin discussing the overall crime rate trends and highlighting the safest areas and, of course, the top 10 dangerous places in Michigan (including the Michigan crime rate by city), let’s take a moment to appreciate where the data comes from.
Naturally, collecting crime data in Michigan is no easy task as Michigan is the 11th largest state in the United States by area, spanning approximately 96,716 square miles.
Thus, a lot of credit goes to Michigan State Police (MSP) and other government agencies for their relentless efforts in providing reliable crime stats.
Initiatives such as Michigan’s Incident Crime Reporting (UCR) Program (derived from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s national program) have been successful and serve as the state repository for the collection of crime statistics.
The data they gather and share with the public make our ability to create this top 10 most dangerous city guide possible.
At present, more than 600 law enforcement agencies submit crime data to Michigan, which is then shared with the Federal Bureau of Investigation national program and can be viewed on the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer (CDE).
Our article has been created based on the reports of these various government agencies.
Total Crime by Category in Michigan
According to the latest Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program reports, Michigan Crime Information Center, the following are the breakdowns of the types of violent and property crime incidents.
In Michigan, the overall violent crime decreased when compared to 2021 by 7.3%, but when we look at the most recent five-year period, it has increased 0.8% since 2018. In particular, murder and robbery rates have increased.
Similarly, when we analyze the property crime rate, it has increased by 10.9% from 2021 but decreased by 8.8% since 2018. Of all the property crimes, Motor Vehicle Thefts have seen the maximum increase from 2021, followed by larceny.
What is the crime rate in Michigan?
Michigan’s Violent Crime Rate Is 4.61 and Higher Than National Average
According to the latest FBI CDE reports, the rate of violent crime offenses in Michigan per 1,000 residents is 4.61, while the national average is 3.87.
Although violent crimes like rape have seen a decrease in occurrence over the last 5 years, robbery and murder incidents have risen tremendously.
Michigan’s Property Crime Rate Is 15.37 and Lower Than National Average
According to the most recent FBI CDE reports, the rate of property crime offenses in Michigan per 1,000 residents is 15.37, which is better than the national average of 19.54.
While Michigan has a higher likelihood of violent crime compared to the national average, the probability of experiencing a property crime in the state is lower than the national average.
Before we continue discussing the characteristics of Michigan’s crime rates, let’s clarify what both violent and property crimes mean, as the definitions of the two crime classifications directly impact how each crime incident gets counted.
Violent Crime Vs. Property Crime Definitions
The FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting System (UCR) defines property crimes as those committed with the intent to steal money or property without the force or the threat of force perpetuated against the victims.
The definition of property crime includes the following four offense types:
Property Crime Offenses
- Burglary
- Larceny-theft (i.e., pickpocketing, stealing gas from cars, shoplifting)
- Motor vehicle theft
- Arson
In addition to defining property crime, the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) defines a violent crime offense. These charges can also apply to stealing. However, they all involve force or threat of force. This category consists of four types of offenses:
Violent Crime Offenses
- Murder and non-negligent manslaughter
- Rape
- Robbery
- Aggravated assault
Like many things, the most common characteristics of violent crimes committed in Michigan vary when compared to other states.
Most Common Weapons Used for Violent Crime in Michigan
The most common weapons used to perpetuate violent crimes in Michigan are as follows:
Personal weapons (body parts used as weapons or force, such as hands, fists, feet, arms, and teeth) are the most used weapons, accounting for almost 22% of violent crime incidents in Michigan, followed by handguns and Knife/Cutting instruments.
Although rare, drugs/narcotics/sleeping pills, poison, and explosives are used to perpetuate violent crimes each year.
Michigan Violent Crime Rate Demographic Trends
Michigan Violent Crime Rate Demographic Trends
When we analyze the age demographic for all types of violent crime, here’s what the distribution among different age groups looks like.
Most Violent Crimes Are Committed by People Under 40 Years Old
| Violent Crime Offender Age | Percent of Total |
|---|---|
| 20 to 29 | 27% |
| 30 to 39 | 24% |
| 10 to 19 | 16% |
| 40 to 49 | 13% |
| 50 to 59 | 8% |
67.7% of violent crimes are committed by persons under the age of 40. Out of this, the age group with the highest percentage of offenders was 20-29, at 27.26%, followed by 30 to 39, at 23.74%.
Average Age of Victims in Violent Crimes
| Violent Crime Victim Age | Percent of Total |
|---|---|
| 20 to 29 | 26% |
| 30 to 39 | 23% |
| 10 to 19 | 18% |
| 40 to 49 | 14% |
| 50 to 59 | 9% |
The average age of violent crime victims falls in the 20-40 age range. The slight disparity, when compared to offender statistics, can be attributed mainly to the lopsided victim-to-offender ratio among children under the age of 10.
70% of victims of violent crime are under the age of 40 in Michigan, with 25.8% of violent crime victims being between the ages of 20-29, the highest in any age group.
Most Common Location of Violent Crime Incidents Is at Home
The most recent CDE data indicates that the most common location where violent crimes are committed is at the residence of the victim (often domestic incidents)- a whopping 58%.
This is followed by Highway/Alley/Street/Sidewalk and Parking Garage/Lot, with crime percentages at 18% and 5%, respectively.
The Majority of Violent Crimes Victims Know Their Offenders in Michigan
In Michigan, most violent crimes are not committed by offenders who are strangers to their victims. Boyfriend/Girlfriend and acquaintance relationships describe about a fifth of Michigan’s reported violent crime incidents.
Men Are More Likely To Commit Violent Crimes Than Women
There is a massive disparity among the demographic of the offender’s gender for violent crimes in Michigan.
Over 74% of violent crimes in Michigan are committed by males, while only 22% of violent crime offenders are female (the missing percentage points are attributed to some violent crime reports not having offender gender listed).
The Gender of Violent Crime Victims is Closely Split Between Men and Women
In Michigan, the victims of violent crimes are females, who are victims in 52% of the cases and males in 47% of the cases. The remaining fraction of a percent are marked as unknown.
As we delve into the list of Michigan’s top 10 most dangerous cities, let’s first quickly explain why you can feel confident in its integrity.
Why Can You Trust Our List of the Top 10 Most dangerous Cities in Michigan?
This compilation of the most dangerous city in Michigan is reliable for reference, as it is derived from objective facts and data gathered and organized by local and state agencies across Michigan rather than a collective feeling or the mere personal opinions of the author.
Crime Rate Formula
We use a standard system for calculating a city’s crime rate, using publicly available total crime and census statistics we obtained from official federal government websites and sources, which works for both property and violent crime.
The formula to determine what are the most dangerous Michigan cities to live in consists of two steps, which are as follows:
- Divide the total number of reported crimes by the city’s total population size.
- Multiply the result of the first step by 1,000, which produces the final crime rate.
Most Dangerous Michigan Cities Ranking System
We use the total crime rate (violent crime + property crime) to determine a city’s position on our list of the top 10 dangerous cities in Michigan.
Now that you know where we get the Michigan crime rate data from and the inner workings of the system we use to determine the level of a city’s crime, let’s answer the question, “What are the most dangerous cities in Michigan?” with our carefully curated list.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan 2024
Out of the 276 cities, 257 villages, and 1,240 townships in Michigan, Detroit has the highest crime rate and ranks as the most dangerous place to reside in Michigan based on crime statistics. It is also the most densely populated city in the state.
- Detroit
- Benton Harbor
- Kalamazoo
- Battle Creek
- Roseville
- Grand Rapids
- Lansing
- Inkster
- Flint
- Pontiac
Detroit
Detroit is the largest and most populated city in the state of Michigan.
Founded as a fort in 1701 by French and Italian explorers Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac and Alphonse de Tonty, Detroit grew into a major industrial hub, earning the nickname “The Motor City” due to its pivotal role in the American automotive industry (and where stop signs got invented).
The city’s name, “Detroit,” is French for “the strait,” referring to its location on the strait connecting Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie.
Detroit’s influence extended beyond manufacturing; it became a cultural beacon, notably through its contributions to music with the Motown sound that reshaped American music.
Pioneered by Berry Gordy Jr. in the 1960s, iconic artists such as Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye started their careers at Motown Records.
In the early 20th century, Detroit experienced significant racial tensions, discrimination, and a revival of urban Ku Klux Klan membership due to swift demographic changes as the city attracted hundreds of thousands of new workers.
Many rural African Americans from the South arrived in the city as part of the Great Migration.
Additionally, immigrants from southern and eastern European countries, including those of Catholic and Jewish faiths, moved to Detroit, competing with the native-born white population for employment and housing in the rapidly growing city.
In the decades to follow, exclusionary and discrimination practices became a significant issue afflicting African Americans in Detroit.
Restrictive covenants were included in the majority of Detroit’s property deeds, preventing African Americans from purchasing homes within their financial means and forcing many to reside in primarily Black neighborhoods like Black Bottom and Paradise Valley.
All the while, there were instances of white residents vandalizing and attacking Black-owned homes.
In addition to its racial injustice woes, the city recently faced significant economic and social difficulties, culminating in Detroit filing the largest municipal bankruptcy filing in U.S. history in 2013.
This financial crisis underscored the city’s struggle with declining population, urban decay, and high crime rates.
According to the United States Census Bureau, 31.5% of the population lives below the poverty line, significantly above the state average of 13.4%.
Despite these hurdles, Detroit has been on a path of recovery, focusing on revitalization efforts in its downtown and midtown areas, attracting new businesses and residents.
What is the crime rate in Detroit, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate in Detroit Is 65.93
For every 1,000 people living in Detroit, Michigan, 65.93 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Detroit’s Violent Crime Rate Is 20.22
For every 1,000 people living in Detroit, 20.22 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year. Detroit’s violent crime rate is one of the highest in the nation.
Detroit’s Property Crime Rate Is 45.71
The property crime rate in Detroit is 45.71; for every 1,000 people living in Detroit, 45.71 property crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Why is Detroit so dangerous?
Many people consider Detroit to be a dangerous city because of its high murder rate, the prevalence of gang activity, and drug-related violence in the city.
As of March 2024, Detroit’s unemployment rate was 7.5%, which is more than double the national average in the United States, further contributing to the area’s socio-economic challenges.
Detroit Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 639,111
- Total Violent Crimes: 12,921
- Total Property Crimes: 29,215
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 20.22
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 45.71
Most Dangerous Areas In Detroit
- Rouge Park
- Belmont
- Brush Park
- Petosky-Otsego
- Fishkorn
- Franklin Park
- Corktown
- Von Steuben
- Condon East
- St. Jean
- Chandler Park East
- Core City
Safest Neighborhoods In Detroit
- Indian Village
- Sherwood Forest
- Palmer Woods
- Rosedale
- Joseph Berry Sub
- North Rosedale Park
- Freud St & Navahoe St
- Davison West
- Boston Edison
- Chadsey West
- University North
Benton Harbor
The city of Benton Harbor, a Michigan beach town, is located in Berrien County 46 miles southwest of Kalamazoo. The city is part of the larger Niles-Benton Harbor Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Founded by Henry C. Morton, Sterne Brunson, and Charles Hull in 1837 as a village and incorporated as a city in 1891, Benton Harbor operates under a council-manager form of local government and is the 127th largest community in Michigan.
Benton Harbor is situated along the Paw Paw River and is closely associated with its twin city, St. Joseph, which is located across the river. The two cities are often referred to as the “Twin Cities” of Southwest Michigan.
Benton Harbor’s geographical location near Lake Michigan contributes to its humid continental climate and having moderately warm summers with high temperatures generally averaging between 77 and 83 °F and less cold winters.
Due to what is known as a lake-effect snow the area has very large amount of snowfall relative to total precipitation during the winter.
Residents of Benton Harbor, which is more than 87% Black, live with significant socio-economic challenges.
More than 44% of people living in Benton Harbor are considered in poverty, according to the US Census Bureau, which is nearly four times higher than the national average of 11.5%.
What is the crime rate in Benton Harbor, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Benton Harbor Is 64.81
For every 1,000 people living in Benton Harbor, Michigan 64.81 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Benton Harbor’s Violent Crime Rate Is 26.69
The violent crime rate in Benton Harbor is 26.69; for every 1,000 people living in Benton Harbor, 26.69 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Benton Harbor’s Property Crime Rate Is 38.12
The property crime rate in Benton Harbor is 38.12; for every 1,000 people living in Benton Harbor, 38.12 property crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Benton Harbor Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 9,103
- Total Violent Crimes: 243
- Total Property Crimes: 347
- Violent Crimes per 1,000 persons: 26.69
- Property Crimes per 1,000 persons: 38.12
Most Dangerous Areas In Benton Harbor
- Benton Heights South
- Fair Plain Northeast
- Fair Plain East
- Benton Harbor Southeast
- Benton Harbor South
Safest Neighborhoods In Benton Harbor
- Bainbridge Center / Napier
- Fair Plain
- Millburg
- City Center
- Benton Harbor East
- Higman Park
- Twelve Corners
- Benton Heights
Kalamazoo
The city of Kalamazoo is the county seat for Kalamazoo County, located in the bottom left quadrant of the state of Michigan. First settled in 1829, it is geographically notable for its location on the southwest bank of the Kalamazoo River.
The Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO) is located on the southern side of the city.
Kalamazoo was once nicknamed the “Paper City” because the Allied Paper Corporation paper mills operated in the city.
The mills employed 1,300 people in Kalamazoo during the late 1960s. However, as the forests of West Michigan were all cut down, the paper mills closed, costing many workers their jobs.
Kalamazoo experiences a significant amount of crime, especially in inner neighborhoods like Edison, the Northside, and Vine. The downtown district in Kalamazoo and the majority of its southwest region are notably safer.
The city has an interactive crime mapping and alert system.
26.2% of people residing in Kalamazoo are considered as living below the federal poverty line.
What is the crime rate in Kalamazoo, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Kalamazoo, MI Is 64.66
For every 1,000 people living in Kalamazoo, Michigan, 64.66 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Kalamazoo’s Violent Crime Rate Is 40.12
The violent crime rate in Kalamazoo is 40.12; for every 1,000 people living in Kalamazoo, 40.12 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year. The violent crime rate in Kalamazoo is almost ten times higher than Michigan’s state average.
Kalamazoo’s Property Crime Rate Is 24.54
The property crime rate in Kalamazoo is 24.54; for every 1,000 people living in Kalamazoo, 24.54 property crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Kalamazoo Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 73,598
- Total Violent Crimes: 2,953
- Total Property Crimes: 1,806
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 40.12
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 24.54
Most Dangerous Areas In Kalamazoo
- Milwood
- Stockbridge
- Big Bend apartments
- Cooper’s Landing
- Edison Southwest
- Vine neighborhood
- Southside
- Northside
- Knollwood
- Verburg Park
- Eastside
Safest Neighborhoods In Kalamazoo Area
- W O Ave / S 4th St
- Schoolcraft
- Richland
- Ostego
- Texas Corners
- Western Michigan University/KRPH
- Oshtemo Township Park
- Northwood
- Doughertys Corners
Battle Creek
First settled in 1831, the city of Battle Creek, located in Calhoun County, is the 28th largest community in Michigan and is part of the Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Metropolitan Statistical Area.
The city is home to WK Kellog Co. founded in (split from Kellogg’s in 2023) and the founding location of Post Consumer Brands (make Grape-Nuts and Golden Crisp, among others).
The city’s history is deeply intertwined with the Seventh-day Adventist Church and Dr. John Harvey Kellogg’s establishment of the Battle Creek Sanitarium.
This institution not only played a crucial role in the development of health and wellness practices but also contributed to the city’s economic and cultural landscape.
The sanitarium’s influence and religious focus led to the creation of the breakfast cereal industry, with Battle Creek becoming the headquarters for major companies like Kellogg’s and Post Consumer Brands.
Despite its significant contributions to the food industry and its historical importance, Battle Creek has encountered economic challenges that stem from the broader deindustrialization trends that have affected many parts of the United States.
The per capita income in Battle Creek is significantly lower than the average income in Michigan, while the poverty rate of 19.20% is significantly higher than the state average.
Both of these are indicative of Battle Creek’s economic challenges and contribute to crime.
What is the crime rate in Battle Creek, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Battle Creek, MI Is 43.74
For every 1,000 people living in Battle Creek, Michigan, 43.74 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Battle Creek’s Violent Crime Rate Is 13.28
The violent crime rate in Battle Creek is 13.28; for every 1,000 people living in Battle Creek, 13.28 violent crimes are reported to the city’s police department each year.
Battle Creek’s Property Crime Rate Is 30.46
The property crime rate in Battle Creek is 30.46; for every 1,000 people living in Battle Creek, 30.46 property crimes are reported to the city’s police department each year.
Battle Creek Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 52,721
- Total Violent Crimes: 700
- Total Property Crimes: 1,606
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 13.28
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 30.46
Most Dangerous Areas In Battle Creek
- Beadle Lake
- Post Flint
- Sunrise Heights
- Downtown Business District
- Verona Park
- North Central Battle Creek
- Morgan Corners
- Irving Park
- Urbandale East
Safest Neighborhoods In Battle Creek Area
- Westlake Prarieview South
- Minges Brook – Riverside
- Old Mill Gardens
- East Leroy
- Greenfield Park
- Level Park Oak Park
- Minges Brook Riverside North
- Lakeview
- Maplehurst
- Urbandale
- R Dr N / Bedford Rd N
Roseville
The city of Roseville is a suburb 13 miles northeast of downtown Detroit, located in Macomb County, and the 34th largest community in Michigan.
Originally a farming community in the early 19th century, Roseville was first incorporated as a village in 1926 and experienced growth with the development of the automobile industry in Detroit.
Today, Roseville is primarily a residential area, with a mix of homes, parks, and local businesses catering to the needs of its residents.
Roseville’s convenient location along major roadways such as Interstate 94 and Gratiot Avenue facilitates easy access to downtown Detroit, making it an attractive place for those who work in the city but prefer suburban living.
The per capita income in Roseville is the lower end of what is considered a middle-class income relative to the rest of the nation. Its poverty rate is 13.4%, which is on par with the state of Michigan’s average.
What is the crime rate in Roseville, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Roseville, MI Is 41.92
For every 1,000 people living in Roseville, Michigan, 41.92 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Roseville’s Violent Crime Rate Is 5.37
The violent crime rate in Roseville is 5.37; for every 1,000 people living in Roseville, 5.37 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Roseville’s Property Crime Rate Is 36.55
The property crime rate in Roseville is 36.55; for every 1,000 people living in Roseville, 36.55 property crimes are reported to the city’s police department each year.
Roseville Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 47,710
- Total Violent Crimes: 256
- Total Property Crimes: 1,744
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 5.37
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 36.55
Most Dangerous Areas In Roseville
- Northview St & Waverly St
- Roseville West
- Roseville East
- Roseville South
- Roseville Southwest
Safest Neighborhoods In Roseville
- Roseville Northwest
- Roseville Southeast
- Curtis St & Dodge St
- E 11 Mile Rd & Oakland St
- S Gratiot Ave & Florence St
- Roseville Northeast
- Rotary Park
- Huron Park
Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is the second largest city in Michigan by population size after Detroit and the county seat of Kent County encompassing approximately 45 square miles.
Situated on the shores of the Grand River, approximately 25 miles east of Lake Michigan, the city is the business and cultural hub of West Michigan.
Founded in 1826 as a fur trading post, Grand Rapids quickly grew into a major lumbering center and, later, in the early 20th century, became the largest furniture manufacturing hub in the United States at the time.
Interestingly, on January 25, 1945, Grand Rapids added fluoride to its public water supply to prevent tooth decay, making it the first city in the United States to do so.
Despite its cultural and economic contributions, Grand Rapids has faced economic challenges, primarily due to the decline in manufacturing and retail store jobs.
The city of Grand Rapids utilizes a crime mapping and alert system.
19% of the city’s population lives below the poverty line, exceeding the state average of 13.4% by more than a third.
What is the crime rate in Grand Rapids, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Grand Rapids, MI Is 40.36
For every 1,000 people living in Grand Rapids, Michigan, 40.36 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Grand Rapids’s Violent Crime Rate Is 9.80
The violent crime rate in Grand Rapids is 9.80; for every 1,000 people living in Grand Rapids, 9.8 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year. The violent crime rate here is more than twice the state average.
Grand Rapids’s Property Crime Rate Is 30.56
The property crime rate in Grand Rapids is 30.56; for every 1,000 people living in Grand Rapids, 30.56 property crimes are reported to law enforcement each year.
Grand Rapids Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 198,917
- Total Violent Crimes: 1,949
- Total Property Crimes: 6,078
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 9.80
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 30.56
Most Dangerous Areas In Grand Rapids
- Roosevelt Park
- Downtown
- West Grand
- Creston Heights
- Heritage Hill
- Madison Area
Safest Neighborhoods In Grand Rapids Area
- Heritage Hill
- Cascade Township
- Shawnee Park
- Cornerstone University
- Provin Trails Park
- Creston East
- Cherry Run
Lansing
The city of Lansing is the capital of Michigan and is primarily located in Ingham County with portions extending into Eaton and Clinton counties.
Settled in 1835 and named after Lansing, New York, the city became Michigan’s capital in 1847.
The Lansing metropolitan area, commonly referred to as “Mid-Michigan,” is a crucial hub for educational, governmental, commercial, and industrial functions.
As the state capital, the state government is unsurprisingly the largest employer of Lansing area residents, followed by Michigan State University as second.
Still, poverty and crime are significant issues in Lansing, as 20% of the city’s residents are living below the poverty line.
What is the crime rate in Lansing, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Lansing, MI Is 40.48
For every 1,000 people living in Lansing, Michigan, 40.48 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Lansing’s Violent Crime Rate Is 12.87
The violent crime rate in Lansing is 12.87; for every 1,000 people living in Lansing, 12.87 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year. The violent crime rate here is almost three times the state average.
Lansing’s Property Crime Rate Is 27.61
The property crime rate in Lansing is 27.61; for every 1,000 people living in Lansing, 27.61 property crimes are reported to the city’s police department each year.
Lansing Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 112,644
- Total Violent Crimes: 1,450
- Total Property Crimes: 3,110
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 12.87
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 27.61
Most Dangerous Areas In Lansing
- Grand River Park
- Downtown
- Genesee
- Stadium District
- Lady Hill
- Northtown
- Eastfield Rd / Shepard St
- Fairview
- Potter-Walsh
- REO Town
Safest Neighborhoods In Lansing Area
- Waverly North
- Delta Mills
- Capital Region International Airport
- Waverly West
- River Forest South
- Delta Center
- Averill Woods
- Clinton Village
- Gunnisonville
- Aurelius Rd & Dell Rd
- Edgewood Blvd & Richard Rd
Inkster
Located in Wayne County, 14 miles west of Detroit, the city of Inkster is part of the Metro Detroit area and is named after Robert Inkster, a Scottish immigrant (born in 1828) who operated a steam-powered sawmill in the 1860s.
Before being settled in 1835, Inkster was initially inhabited by Native Americans.
In the 1920s and 1930s, African-Americans employed at Henry Ford’s Dearborn factories opted to reside in Inkster due to its proximity to their jobs, as they were not allowed to live in the city of Dearborn.
Jeralean Talley, who was the world’s oldest person before dying at the age of 116 years and 25 days old in 2015, died in Inkster.
Inkster’s economy is historically centered around the automotive industry, which has suffered.
In recent years, efforts have been made to diversify its economic base through retail, healthcare, and small business development.
The median household income in Inkster is considered lower than the national average. This is evident in the Inkster’s poverty rate, which stands at 35.10%, significantly higher than the state average.
What is the crime rate in Inkster, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Inkster Is 30.05
For every 1,000 people living in Inkster, Michigan, 30.05 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Inkster’s Violent Crime Rate Is 10.85
The violent crime rate in Inkster is 10.85; for every 1,000 people living in Inkster, 10.85 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year. The violent crime here is more than twice the state average.
Inkster’s Property Crime Rate Is 19.2
The property crime rate in Inkster is 19.2; for every 1,000 people living in Inkster, 19.2 property crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Inkster Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 26,088
- Total Violent Crimes: 283
- Total Property Crimes: 501
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 10.85
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 19.20
Most Dangerous Areas In Inkster
- City Center
- Inkster Southeast
- Colonial Park
- Inkster South
Safest Neighborhoods In Inkster
- Inkster East
- Inkster Southwest
- Inkster West
- Beech St & Hickory St
Flint
The city of Flint is the county seat of Genesee County, located in the eastern part of Michigan, approximately 66 miles northwest of Detroit.
The area was originally home to several Ojibwe tribes (indigenous peoples whose homeland covers a significant portion of the Great Lakes and northern plains regions)
Founded in 1819 by a fur trader named Jacob Smith, Flint was a major lumbering area in the 1800s.
Flint is historically known for its major role in the automobile industry and experienced significant growth and prosperity in the early to mid-20th century, largely due to the booming auto industry.
General Motors (GM) was established in Flint in 1908, leading the city to become a key hub for automobile production for GM’s Buick and Chevrolet brands, particularly post-World War II.
However, the latter part of the century saw a decline in the industry, leading to economic difficulties, population loss, and urban decay, resulting in higher levels of crime, unemployment, and poverty.
Like other car manufacturer cities in Michigan, Flint’s significance in the automotive sector intensified these socio-economic issues, particularly during the 1973 oil crisis.
Soaring oil prices led to a decline in market share for the U.S. auto industry as the Japanese automakers were able to gain an edge through their production of more fuel-efficient vehicles.
The city has also faced significant challenges in recent years, most notably the Flint water crisis.
This public health emergency arose from cost-cutting decisions to switch the city’s water source away from Lake Huron to the Flint River without adequate treatment, leading to lead contamination and other issues.
The crisis, which includes an estimated 6,000-12,000 children being exposed to lead, has had lasting impacts on the community’s health and well-being, necessitating dozens of lawsuits to be filed.
The percentage of people living below the poverty level in Flint is 33.3%, almost triple the national average.
Despite these challenges, Flint has seen an increase in revitalization efforts over the past 20 years, focusing on improving infrastructure, public health, and economic opportunities for its residents.
What is the crime rate in Flint, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Flint, MI Is 28.99
For every 1,000 people living in Flint, Michigan, 28.99 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Flint’s Violent Crime Rate Is 13.83
The violent crime rate in Flint is 13.83; for every 1,000 people living in Flint, 13.83 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year. The violent crime here is almost thrice the state average.
Flint’s Property Crime Rate Is 15.16
The property crime rate in Flint is 15.16; for every 1,000 people living in Flint, 15.16 property crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Flint Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 81,252
- Total Violent Crimes: 1,124
- Total Property Crimes: 1,232
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 13.83
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 15.16
Most Dangerous Areas In Flint
- Van Slyke Rd & W Bristol Rd
- N Jennings Rd & W Pierson Rd
- Beecher Rd & River Forest Dr
- Beecher South
- Beecher East
- Northeast Village
- Atherton East
- Evergreen Regency Townhomes
Safest Neighborhoods In Flint Area
- Eastdale Dr & Richfield Rd
- University Avenue Neighborhood
- Flint West Village
- N Belsay Rd & E Stanley Rd
- Circle Neighborhood
- Woodcroft Estates
- Mills Acres St & Richfield Rd
- N Dye Rd & Beecher Rd
- E Coldwater Rd & Genesee County Parks Rd
- Kearsley Park
Pontiac
The city of Pontiac is located about 26 miles northwest of downtown Detroit in the southeast part of Michigan.
Founded by European-American settlers in 1818, who named it after the famous Odawa Tribe war chief, Chief Pontiac (as is the former car brand Pontiac).
Throughout the 20th century, Pontiac became a significant hub for the automotive industry, with General Motors establishing a strong presence through its automobile manufacturing plants in the city.
This led to economic prosperity and population growth during the early and mid-20th century.
However, the latter part of the 20th and early 21st centuries have been challenging for Pontiac.
Since 1980, the city has seen a shrink in population resulting from industrial changes and the reduction of employment opportunities, particularly in the automotive sector.
These economic challenges have contributed to social issues, including Pontiac’s higher-than-average crime rates.
The per capita income in Pontiac is considered low compared to Michigan and the nation. These economic challenges are further evident by Pontiac’s poverty rate of 26.70%, nearly double the state average.
What is the crime rate in Pontiac, Michigan?
The Total Crime Rate In Pontiac, MI Is 28.53
For every 1,000 people living in Pontiac, Michigan, 28.53 crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement annually.
Pontiac’s Violent Crime Rate Is 10.31
The violent crime rate in Pontiac is 10.31; for every 1,000 people living in Pontiac, 10.31 violent crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Pontiac’s Property Crime Rate Is 18.52
The property crime rate in Pontiac is 18.52; for every 1,000 people living in Pontiac, 18.52 property crimes are reported to the city’s law enforcement each year.
Pontiac Crime Rate Stats
- Population: 61,606
- Total Violent Crimes: 635
- Total Property Crimes: 1,141
- Violent Crimes per 1000 persons: 10.31
- Property Crimes per 1000 persons: 18.52
Most Dangerous Areas In Pontiac
- Pontiac Southeast
- South Kiwanis Park
- Pontiac Southeast
- Downtown Pontiac
- Downtown Pontiac North
- Cesar E Chavez Ave & Baldwin Ave
- Pontiac Northwest
Safest Neighborhoods In Pontiac
- Rotary Park
- Hawthorne Park
- Pontiac North
- Pontiac Northeast
- Franklin Boulevard
- Pontiac West
- Pontiac Southwest
Now that we have completed our list of the most dangerous cities in Michigan, let’s name the ten cities in Michigan that are the safest to live in.
Safest Cities in Michigan
According to Michigan UCR’s crime reports, the Michigan cities with the lowest crime rates are:
- Limestone Township
- Wellington Township
- Torch Lake Township
- Sterling
- Turner
- Arvon Township
- Midland
- Platte Township
- Shoreham
- Marcellus
- Peaine Township
Cause of High Crime Rates In Michigan
The reason Michigan has a high rate of crime, particularly those violent in nature, is a combination of factors.
The high poverty rates and historical racial inequalities in various regions of the state contribute to elevated crime rates. Similarly, high unemployment rates lead to a higher frequency of criminal acts.
Michigan Governer’s Stance On Crime:
On February 15, 2024, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the significant strides of Operation Safe Neighborhoods, a comprehensive initiative aimed at curbing gun violence and enhancing public safety.
The operation has successfully removed over 550 illegal firearms from circulation, a result of meticulous efforts involving 5,331 check-ins with felony offenders.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy under the MI Safe Communities program, launched in 2021, which focuses on supporting local law enforcement, removing illegal firearms, and investing in community development through education, jobs, and the justice system.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer said,
As a former prosecutor, protecting public safety is a top priority. By getting more than 550 illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals before they can be used in the commission of a crime, we are taking action to keep families and communities safe.
Last year, I signed four commonsense gun violence prevention laws establishing protections for domestic violence survivors, universal background checks, safe storage requirements, and extreme risk protection orders.
We will keep working together to reduce gun violence and save lives.
Governor Whitmer, leveraging her experience as a former prosecutor, has prioritized the safety of Michigan’s communities by implementing several gun violence prevention laws.
These laws include measures for domestic violence survivors, universal background checks, safe storage requirements, and extreme risk protection orders.
Her administration’s efforts are underscored by record-breaking public safety investments, including five balanced, bipartisan budgets that have significantly funded local law enforcement and first responder recruitment.
The governor’s legislative actions, particularly in 2023, have established a robust framework for gun violence prevention.
This includes universal background checks, safe storage mandates, and the introduction of extreme risk protection orders, which allow for the temporary confiscation of firearms from individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others.
Additionally, legislation has been enacted to prevent convicted domestic abusers from owning firearms, further emphasizing the administration’s commitment to reducing gun violence and ensuring community safety.
In Conclusion About the 10 Most Dangerous Places In Michigan
Our team at Express Legal Funding hopes you found this a valuable top-ten list article about the crime rate in Michigan and its most dangerous cities and areas to live in.
We want to leave you with these last thoughts:
Understanding the crime rates and demographics of Michigan cities is crucial for making informed decisions about personal safety and well-being.
Ultimately, the goal should be for individuals, community leaders, law enforcement, and state policymakers to work together to improve living conditions and make Michigan’s many neighborhoods safer for all residents.
Those in power should acknowledge the high crime rate and be willing to work with others who see things differently to solve the underlying issues in the most affected communities.
Although it’s easier said than done, we should not lose hope.
The Express Legal Funding team, including Author and Strategy Director Aaron R Winston, has personal experience over the past 20-plus years traveling across Michigan, including spending time in locations like Detroit and on the lakes of Traverse City.
Not to mention that Express Legal Funding has a strong history as a company providing its pre-settlement funding service to many Michiganders, represented by top Michigan law firms and lawyers in many of the cities and towns, big and small, across “The Great Lake State.”
If you are a plaintiff in the middle of a lawsuit in Michigan and need money now to help with bills and the cost of daily living, please call us toll-free or apply online for legal funding. We are here to help, 24/7.
About the Author
Aaron Winston is the Strategy Director of Express Legal Funding. As "The Legal Funding Expert," Aaron has more than ten years of experience in the consumer finance industry. Most of which was as a consultant to a top financial advisory firm, managing 400+ million USD in client wealth. He is recognized as an expert author and researcher across multiple SEO industries.
Aaron Winston earned his title "The Legal Funding Expert" through authoritative articles and blog posts about legal funding. He specializes in expert content writing for pre-settlement funding and law firm blogs.
Each month, tens of thousands of web visitors read his articles and posts. Aaron's thoroughly researched guides are among the most-read lawsuit funding articles over the past year.
As Strategy Director of Express Legal Funding, Aaron has devoted thousands of hours to advocating for the consumer. His "it factor" is that he is a tireless and inventive thought leader who has made great strides by conveying his legal knowledge and diverse expertise to the public. More clients and lawyers understand the facts about pre-settlement funding because of Aaron's legal and financial service SEO mastery.
Aaron Winston is the author of A Word For The Wise. A Warning For The Stupid. Canons of Conduct, which is a book in poetry format. It consists of 35 unique canons. The book was published in 2023.
He keeps an academic approach to business that improves the consumer's well-being. In early 2022, Aaron gained the Search Engine Optimization and the Google Ads LinkedIn skills assessment badges. He placed in the top 5% of those who took the SEO skills test assessment.
Aaron's company slogans and lawsuit funding company name are registered trademarks of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. He has gained positive notoriety via interviews and case studies, which are a byproduct of his successes. Aaron R. Winston was featured in a smith.ai interview (2021) and a company growth case study (2022).
In 2023, Aaron and Express Legal Funding received accolades in a leading SEO author case study performed by the leading professionals at WordLift. The in-depth data presented in the pre-settlement funding SEO case study demonstrate why Aaron Winston maintains a high-author E-E-A-T. His original writing and helpful content continue to achieve unprecedented success and stand in their own class.
Aaron was born in Lubbock, TX, where he spent the first eight years of his life. Aaron attended Akiba Academy of Dallas, TX.
