7 Most Dangerous Cities in Florida 2024: High Crime Rates Highlighted!

High Crime Alert: Most Dangerous Cities in Florida 2024 Revealed

Top Most Dangerous Cities in Florida for Violent Crime Identified

According to Southwest Journal, several locations have been highlighted as posing significant risks due to the high levels of violent crime in Florida. These areas underscore the importance of caution for both residents and visitors alike despite Florida’s reputation for sunshine and beaches. Understanding these safety dynamics is crucial whether you’re considering a move or simply interested in the state’s diverse offerings. Stay informed to make the best decisions about where to live or explore in the Sunshine State.

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(PHOTO: Travel + Leisure)

Most Dangerous Cities in Florida

7. Deerfield Beach

One of the major issues with living in an urban environment has been Deerfield Beach which is a part of the Miami metropolitan area. The Office of Justice Programs (OJP) reports that the city’s rates of violent crime which stand at 9.19 per 1,000 population and property crime which stands at 44.67 per 1,000, are much higher than the national norms. The city’s poverty rate is lower than the national average indicating that many citizens may be secure in their employment despite these difficulties. Deerfield Beach’s unemployment rate is in line with the state average suggesting a respectable degree of economic activity.

6. Orlando

According to Florida Daily, Orlando is the state’s most populated city and has seen a violent crime rate that is 2.2 times greater than the state average. There has been a marginal uptick since 2020 in Orlando despite a consistent downward trend in crime rates since 2002. Orlando has worked hard to make the city safer for its citizens by reducing violent crime. Actions have demonstrated some success but problems still exist.

5. Pompano Beach

Pompano Beach is a city that is a component of the Miami metropolitan area and has higher than average rates of property and violent crime. The urban setting and dense population of the city could affect these rates. Pompano Beach’s poverty rate is lower than the national average but it still indicates that a sizable portion of the community faces financial difficulties. The unemployment rate in the region is slightly greater than the state average suggesting that there may be some economic volatility.

4. Lauderhill

In the past few years, Lauderhill is a city in Florida that has seen an increase in crime. The 72,000-person city saw 632 violent crimes in 2022 and a 20% increase from the year before. According to Property Club, Lauderhill has an overall violent crime rate of 878 per 100,000 residents which is 2.3 times more than the average Florida victimhood rate. Lauderhill’s community’s ongoing efforts to increase safety are demonstrated by programs like neighborhood watch signs and proactive policing.

3. Daytona Beach

Thousands of Americans visit Daytona Beach every year which is well-known for its racetrack and spring break activities. It is among the most dangerous areas of Florida to reside in. According to Spectrum News, there are almost three times as many violent crimes committed in the city as there are in the state as there are residents with a violent crime rate of 1,006 per 100,000 Americans. Daytona Beach is one of the most dangerous places to be with property crime rates that are approximately 2.5 times higher than the state average.

2. Homestead

The city of Homestead was severely damaged by Hurricane Andrew in 1992 which also destroyed over 90% of the area’s mobile homes. The community still faces high rates of violent crimes and property destruction. Despite its advantages Homestead is one of the most hazardous cities in Florida. The northwest is frequently suggested by locals as a safer option. When seeing Homestead the allure of its small-town charm and agricultural bounty captivated me. Talking to residents usually veers into discussions about safety particularly in certain neighborhoods exposing the intricate social dynamics of the city.

1. Riviera Beach

Riviera Beach is home to 35,000 Americans and is the most violently dangerous city in Florida because of its startlingly high murder rate which is seven times higher than the state average. There are areas of the city that are outside the Miami metropolitan area where traveling is frequently discouraged owing to safety concerns. Riviera Beach has a violent crime rate of 16.72 per 1,000 residents which has a substantial impact on general safety in the area, according to the area Journal. Although several parts of Riviera Beach rank among the most dangerous in Florida, Singer Island is thought to be the safest location. Although the city has a beautiful coastline its reputation for criminality stands in stark contrast to its natural surroundings.

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