According to PropertyClub, in Virginia while many are drawn by its attractions like D.C., beaches, and mountains some areas face high crime rates. Recent data identifies twelve cities struggling with violent and property crime. Places like Richmond, Norfolk and Newport News are among those noted for their challenges. Authorities stress the need for community support and effective policing to tackle these issues. As potential residents weigh their options understanding local crime trends remains crucial for making informed decisions about relocation.
12 Most Dangerous Cities in Virginia
- Portsmouth
- Roanoke
- Emporia
- Galax
- South Boston
- Norfolk
- Richmond
- Fredericksburg
- Danville
- Petersburg
- Ashland
- Newport News
1. Portsmouth
Portsmouth is the most deadly city in Virginia. This 97,915-person city is situated across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk and has an especially high violent crime rate. Portsmouth has a 1 in 19 risk of becoming the victim of any kind of crime, which is 228% more than the Virginia State average. A total of 4,429 crimes were committed in 2023, comprising 3,007 theft incidents, 36 murders, 138 robberies, and 529 assaults.
2. Roanoke
With a higher crime rate than the rest of the state, Roanoke is another of Virginiaβs most hazardous cities. Nestled in southwest Virginiaβs Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke is renowned for its art museums and seventy parks that span more than 14,000 acres and offer more than 100 miles of hiking and bicycling routes. Nevertheless, Roanoke has a crime rate that is 111% greater than the national average, in spite of its picturesque surroundings. In addition, the rate of violent crime in Virginia is 88% greater than that of the state and 64% higher than that of the entire US. In comparison to 92% other US cities, Roanoke has a higher crime rate, with a 1 in 21 probability of becoming a victim.
3. Emporia
Because of its high rate of crime, Emporia is also among Virginiaβs worst cities. The population of Emporia, which is in Greensville County, is 5,766. Emporia has a total crime rate of 4,203 per 100,000 people, which is 61% greater than the national average. There were 166 crimes committed in 2022, of which 22 were violent crimes and 144 were property crimes. The most frequent crimes are stealing, burglary, and assault.
4. Galax
Situated close to the Appalachian Foothills in the southwest of the state, Galax is a perilous town in Virginia. With 6,720 residents, it has a remarkably high crime rate of 3,768 per 100,000. The likelihood of any kind of crime striking a Galax citizen is one in twenty-seven. There were 22 car thefts, 187 thefts, 25 burglaries, and nine assaults in 2023.
5. South Boston
South Bostonβs extraordinarily high crime rate makes it one of Virginiaβs worst cities as well. situated in Halifax County and is home to 7,588 people. South Boston has had a declining population for the past 20 years due to a poor economy and poverty. With 3,587 crimes committed for every 100,000 residents, South Boston has a 1 in 28 probability of becoming a victim of any crime.
6. Norfolk
One of the riskiest places to live in Virginia is Norfolk. The largest naval facility in the world, Naval Station Norfolk, is located in Norfolk, one of the biggest cities in Virginia. At 3,354 per 100,000, Norfolkβs overall crime rate is 43% higher than the national average. Norfolk has high rates of property and violent crime outside of the military installation. 9,850 offenses were reported in the past year alone, with 1,364 instances of assault and 63 murders.
7. Richmond
Virginiaβs capital, Richmond, is also one of the stateβs most violent cities. With 204,214 residents, it has a crime rate of 3,270 per 100,000, which is 39% greater than the national average. Richmond saw 7,703 property and violent crimes in total in 2022. This number comprised 267 robberies, 534 assaults, 90 homicides, and 711 burglaries.
8. Fredericksburg
Virginiaβs capital, Richmond, is also one of the stateβs most violent cities. With 204,214 residents, it has a crime rate of 3,270 per 100,000, which is 39% greater than the national average. Richmond saw 7,703 property and violent crimes in total in 2022. This number comprised 267 robberies, 534 assaults, 90 homicides, and 711 burglaries.
9. Danville
Because of its high percentage of violent crime, Danville is also among Virginiaβs worst cities. With 42,590 residents, Danville is a city rich in Civil War history. Danville has a total crime rate of 3,118 per 100,000 residents, which is 37% worse than the national average. There were 1,406 recorded crimes in 2022, including 30 robberies, 107 assaults, and 6 murders. By far the most prevalent kind of crime is property crime, with burglaries being a widespread occurrence.
Matt Pinner is a dedicated journalist for WVPrepBB.com, specializing in USA and crime news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for uncovering the truth, Matt brings timely and insightful reporting to his readers. His work on WVPrepBB.com keeps the community informed and engaged with the latest developments in national news and criminal justice.
