Massachusetts, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, also faces challenges with crime in certain cities. As of 2024, the landscape of safety in Massachusetts has evolved, with some cities experiencing higher rates of violent and property crimes. This article delves into the top 10 dangerous cities in the state, providing recent statistics and insights into the factors contributing to these crime rates.
1. Springfield
Population: 154,098 (as of 2021)
Violent Crime Rate: Approximately 34.63 per 1,000 residents
Springfield, the most dangerous city in Massachusetts, has seen a gradual increase in crime rates, with the worst neighborhoods being Metro Center, Pine Point, Hungest Hill, Indian Orchard, Forest Park, South End, and Bay.
2. Boston
Population: 704,758 (as of 2021)
Violent Crime Rate: About 20.53 per 1,000 residents
Despite being a major cultural and economic hub, Boston struggles with crime, particularly in neighborhoods like Central and Downtown Boston, Dorchester, Chelsea, and Roxbury.
3. New Bedford
Population: 96,346 (as of 2021)
Violent Crime Rate: Approximately 29.88 per 1,000 residents
Violent Crimes (2021): 2,879 cases, including aggravated assaults and robberies.
New Bedford, with its significant crime rate, ranks third on this list, highlighting the need for effective crime prevention strategies.
4. Worcester
Population: 186,365 (as of 2021)
Violent Crime Rate: Around 17.74 per 1,000 residents
Violent Crimes (2021): 3,307 cases, with notable neighborhoods like Grafton Hill, Vernon Hill, Belmont Hill, and Pleasant Street.
Worcester’s crime rates, particularly in specific neighborhoods, position it as a city of concern regarding public safety.
5. Chicopee
Population: Approximately 55,000
Notable Aspect: Highest homicide rate for a city of its size in the state.
Chicopee, once known for the Westover Air Reserve Base, now faces significant public safety challenges.
6. Chelsea
Population: Around 40,000
Violent Crime Rate (2020): 521 per 100,000 people
Homicides (2020): 2 cases.
Chelsea’s high density and crime rate make it a city where safety is a significant concern, despite being a bustling area.
Fall River stands out for its high rate of criminal activity, with a considerable portion being violent crimes.
8. Brockton
Population: 105,643
Violent Crime Rate (2020): 671 per 100,000 residents
Homicides (2020): 4 cases.
Known as the “City Of Champions,” Brockton’s violent crime rates and history of assault and other serious crimes are a stark contrast to its sporting accolades.
9. Worcester (Revisited)
Population: Just under 200,000
Criminal Events (Recent Year): Nearly 1,800, with over 1,200 being assaults.
Worcester’s crime statistics reinforce its position on this list, with a substantial number of assaults contributing to its high crime rate.
10. New Bedford (Revisited)
Violent Crimes (Recent Year): Well over 1,000, including robbery, rape, aggravated assault, and arson【7†source】.
The statistics of New Bedford emphasize its continued struggle with both violent and property crimes.
Conclusion
Understanding the dynamics of crime in these cities is crucial for residents, authorities, and policymakers. While the statistics provide a snapshot, they also underscore the need for ongoing efforts in crime prevention, community engagement, and socioeconomic development to enhance public safety across Massachusetts.
