Most Dangerous Cities in Tennessee: Check If Yours Is On The List!

Tennessee is generally regarded as a safe state, attributed to a combination of Southern hospitality and lower population density. While it has numerous cities, much of the state is rural. This lower population density tends to result in lower rates of violent crime. However, no state is perfect, tennessee ranks fifth in overall crime (6.72/1000) and third in violent crime (73.47%) in the U.S. The property crime rate is high at 27%, exceeding the national average.

In 2020, crimes against individuals, including homicide and kidnapping, were frequent and property crimes, such as theft and auto theft, surged in various cities.

Here’s a list of the most dangerous cities in Tennessee; 

Berry Hill: One of the Most Dangerous Cities in Tennessee. (Photo: www.berryhilltn.org)

Unexpectedly, Berry Hill, situated south of Music City and renowned for its diverse range of small businesses, recording studios, boutiques, and well-liked restaurants, stands out as one of the most dangerous cities in Tennessee. It scores an alarming 56.2/1000 on the crime index, as reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which is remarkably 1217% higher than the national average.

Pigeon Forge: One of the Most Dangerous Cities in Tennessee. (Photo: Pigeon Forge)

Next on the list is Pigeon Forge. It is located in eastern Tennessee and situated in the Eastern Time Zone, ranks among the most dangerous cities in Tennessee, with a Crime Index of 60/1000. Despite its popularity as a recreational destination, Pigeon Forge experiences rapid growth, nearing 20%, which surpasses both the state’s growth rate of 13.40% and the national average of 11.6%.

However, the median household income in this mountainous region remains around $30,000. To ensure safety, it’s advisable to exercise common sense precautions such as securing valuables, staying aware of your surroundings, and sharing your plans with someone.

Memphis: One of the Most Dangerous Cities in Tennessee. (Photo: Cabins US Catlinburg)

Lastly, Memphis. It isamong the most dangerous cities in Tennessee and earned the unsettling title of the most dangerous U.S. city in 2021. It holds the second-highest homicide rate among major metro areas, and this rate is on an alarming upward trend. In 2019, there were 237 homicides, and by 2020, that grim figure jumped by nearly 100 to reach 327 homicides, with expectations of further increases.

Despite surrounding areas having below-average violent crime rates, Memphis, stands out for its elevated violence, primarily driven by its high murder rate, which is four times the national average which makes it as one of the most dangerous cities in Tennessee. Contributing factors include limited tourism beyond music history and high poverty rates, partly resulting from limitations in the tourism industry.

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