Iowa is known for its stunning landscapes, friendly neighborhoods, and rich cultural legacy, yet some cities have higher crime rates. While the state is generally a safe place to live, some places have higher crime rates than others, which is largely attributable to socioeconomic differences. Understanding which cities have higher crime rates is critical for people considering migrating to Iowa or who want to stay up to date on the state’s safety landscape.
We look at the seven most dangerous cities in Iowa based on current crime statistics. These cities have been identified as having higher rates of violent and property crimes, highlighting areas where extra caution may be required. From major centers to smaller settlements, these cities show that, while Iowa is a wonderful place to live, certain locations require increased awareness and safety precautions. Join us as we explore the specifics of Iowa’s most deadly cities.
1. Ottumwa
The most deadly city in Iowa is Ottumwa. Ottumwa has the highest crime rate in Iowa, with 4,671 per 100,000 inhabitants. Ottumwa is also the county seat of Wapello County and is located along the Des Moines River. Ottumwa’s violent crime rate is 124% more than the national average, despite having a population of 25,529. Ottumwa has a disproportionately high rate of violent crime, including murder, robbery, and assault. Drug trafficking is an issue in the neighborhood and contributes to much of the local property crime.
2. Davenport
Davenport is one of Iowa’s most dangerous cities. Davenport is one of Iowa’s largest cities and is located along the famed Mississippi River. Davenport has a population of 101,724 with a total crime rate that is 81% greater than the national average. The majority of events in Davenport involve property crime, with burglary and personal or property theft being the most common forms. There were 10 murders and 98 robberies in 2022. Much of Davenport is impoverished, and drug addiction is a public health concern.
Discover the Top Seven Cheapest Places to Live in Florida With Rich Historical Sites
3. Des Moines
Des Moines is Iowa’s capitol and the state’s most populated city, with about 214,100 citizens. The city’s total crime rate is 62% higher than the national average, making it one of the worst places to live in Iowa if you’re concerned about crime. Both violent and property crime are prevalent in Des Moines, with assaults, thefts, vehicle thefts, and burglaries being big issues.
In 2022, the city registered two murders and 165 robberies. Des Moines is also one of Iowa’s worst drug cities, with a high number of drug-related felonies and hundreds of overdoses per year. Des Moines also has significant poverty rates in many of its neighborhoods and adjacent areas.
4. Council Bluffs
Council Bluffs is a hazardous city located in Pottawattamie County, Nebraska, just outside of Omaha. The city has a population of 62,800 and a total crime rate that is 61% higher than the national average. Property crime is the most common, with violent crime being lower than the national average. The most common sorts of crimes include burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. There were no murders and 28 robberies registered in 2023.
5. Sioux City
Sioux City is Iowa’s fourth largest city, located on the Missouri River. It has a population of 85,797. The city also has a total crime rate that is 54% higher than the national average, ranking as one of Iowa’s most dangerous communities. Assaults, robberies, and theft are the most common forms of crimes in Sioux City. Sioux City’s economy is low, and its population has stagnated or declined for decades.
6. Fort Madison
Fort Madison is one of Iowa’s most dangerous cities. Fort Madison, located along the Mississippi River, is the county seat of Lee County. The city has a population of 10,270 and a total crime rate that is 46% higher than the national average. Fort Madison has a high violent crime rate compared to its population, with 71 events, including two murders, documented in 2022. Burglary, theft, and vehicle theft were also common crimes.
Explore These 20 Hidden Iowa Facts That Only Locals Understand
7. Fort Dodge
Fort Dodge is also among the most deadly cities in Iowa. It is the state’s primary manufacturing center and the county seat of Webster. The city’s population is 24,871, and the overall crime rate is 28% higher than the national average. Dodge City has a high rate of property crime, including personal theft and burglary. Other crimes, such as robbery and assault, are fairly common. There were no murders reported in Fort Dodge in 2022.
Summary
In summary, while Iowa has beautiful scenery and pleasant populations, some cities have higher crime rates, which are mostly determined by socioeconomic reasons. Understanding these relationships enables residents and newcomers to manage safety concerns more effectively, enabling informed decisions and proactive community efforts to improve security throughout the state.
