Pennsylvania, known for its rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning natural beauty, has recently been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. According to the latest FBI crime data and reports from reputable sources, four cities in the Keystone State have been named among the most dangerous places to live in the United States. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at these cities, explore the factors contributing to their high crime rates, and discuss what it means for residents and visitors alike.
McKees Rocks: The Most Dangerous City in Pennsylvania
McKees Rocks, a borough in Allegheny County, tops the list as the most dangerous city in Pennsylvania. With a population of just under 6,000, the city’s crime rate is an astounding 173% higher than the national average. In 2022, there were 106 violent crimes and 262 property crimes reported, making residents’ chances of becoming victims of any type of crime a staggering 1 in 22.
Philadelphia: The City of Brotherly Love with a Dark Side
As the largest city in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia has long struggled with crime issues. However, recent data shows that the city’s violent crime rate is nearly 37% higher than the next closest city, Chester. In 2021, Philadelphia reported 1,041 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a total crime rate of 5,363 per 100,000.
Chester: A Dangerous City in Delaware County
Chester, located in Delaware County, is another city that has earned a spot on the list of the most dangerous places in Pennsylvania. With a population of 32,605, the city’s crime rate is 116% higher than the state average. In 2021, the median home price in Chester was just $66,800, highlighting the economic challenges faced by residents.
Darby: A Small City with Big Crime Problems
Darby, a city in Delaware County with a population of 10,667, has a crime rate that is 1 in 22, meaning residents have a high chance of becoming victims of any type of crime. The city’s poverty rate is also a significant concern, with residents earning less than $35,000 on average.
Factors Contributing to High Crime Rates
Several factors contribute to the high crime rates in these Pennsylvania cities. Economic factors, such as poverty and unemployment, play a significant role. Many of the most dangerous cities have high poverty rates and low median household incomes compared to the national average. Educational attainment is another factor, with nine out of the ten most dangerous cities having high school graduation rates below the national average of 86.7%. Low police budgets and fewer officers per capita have also been cited as contributing factors in some cities.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania’s ranking among the most dangerous places in the US is a sobering reality that cannot be ignored. The high crime rates in cities like McKees Rocks, Philadelphia, Chester, and Darby are a call to action for local authorities and communities to work together to address the root causes of crime. By investing in economic development, improving education, and enhancing public safety, these cities can begin to reverse the trend and create safer environments for their residents.
It’s important to note that while these cities face significant challenges, they are not representative of the entire state. Pennsylvania is a diverse state with many vibrant and safe communities. However, the issues faced by these dangerous cities highlight the need for comprehensive strategies to address crime and improve the quality of life for all residents.