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Discover the top 10 most dangerous cities in Utah, based on detailed crime data and analysis. Learn which areas to avoid and which ones are considered the safest, so you can make an informed decision when moving or visiting within the state.

Utah's Crime Landscape: Property vs. Violent Crimes

Understanding the crime landscape in Utah involves distinguishing between property and violent crimes. Both types of crimes impact the safety and security of residents.

Property Crimes

Property crimes in Utah occur at a rate of 7,615 per 100,000 residents. These crimes include:

  • Burglary
  • Larceny theft
  • Vehicle theft
  • Arson

These offenses involve the unlawful taking of money or property without force against individuals.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes are less frequent but more severe. Utah's violent crime rate is 1,26 per 100,000 residents. The FBI categorizes violent crimes into four main types:

  • Murder and non-negligent manslaughter
  • Rape
  • Robbery
  • Aggravated assault

These crimes involve force or the threat of force, making them particularly concerning for residents and law enforcement.

Crime Rate Considerations

When evaluating the safety of a city, both property and violent crime rates are taken into account. While property crimes are more common, violent crimes are prioritized in safety assessments due to their potential for harm.

The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Utah

Utah, known for its stunning landscapes and friendly communities, also has cities with higher-than-average crime rates. Here's a look at the ten most dangerous cities in the state.

1. South Salt Lake

South Salt Lake tops the list as the most dangerous city in Utah. This area faces significant challenges with crime.

  • 243 violent crimes annually
  • 1,634 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 72.1 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 1
  • Violent crime rate: 9.35

2. Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, the state capital, ranks second due to its high crime rates despite efforts to revitalize parts of the city.

  • 2,004 violent crimes annually
  • 13,573 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 76.6 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 1
  • Violent crime rate: 9.79

3. Moab

Moab, known for its unique landscapes, faces crime issues largely due to its tourist influx.

  • 39 violent crimes annually
  • 106 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 27.25 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 13
  • Violent crime rate: 7.33

4. Ogden

Ogden, once a peaceful city, now contends with significant crime rates.

  • 487 violent crimes annually
  • 2,242 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 31.43 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 10
  • Violent crime rate: 5.61

5. West Valley City

West Valley City is considered dangerous by many residents, despite some positive aspects.

  • 615 violent crimes annually
  • 4,133 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 34.75 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 7
  • Violent crime rate: 4.5

6. Park City

Park City, known for its ski resorts and festivals, has a crime rate influenced by its party culture.

  • 42 violent crimes annually
  • 204 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 29.3 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 11
  • Violent crime rate: 5.02

7. Tooele

Tooele, a farming community, has seen an increase in crime rates.

  • 177 violent crimes annually
  • 692 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 22.52 per 1,000 residents

8. Murray

Murray, close to Salt Lake City, has one of the highest crime rates in the state.

  • 178 violent crimes annually
  • 2,532 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 54.79 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 2
  • Violent crime rate: 3.6

9. Riverdale

Riverdale, a metro border city, deals with a high total crime rate.

  • 30 violent crimes annually
  • 443 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 50.94 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 2
  • Violent crime rate: 3.23

10. Roosevelt

Roosevelt, known for its oil reserves, has a fluctuating population contributing to its crime rate.

  • 22 violent crimes annually
  • 179 property crimes annually
  • Total crime rate: 28.32 per 1,000 residents
  • Crime index score: 12
  • Violent crime rate: 3.1

How Utah Compares to Other States in Safety

Utah is often perceived as a safe state, but how does it really compare to others in terms of safety?

Overall Safety Rankings

Various studies and rankings provide insight into Utah's safety relative to other states.

  • WalletHub ranks Utah 4th best state for safety
  • US News ranks Utah as the number one place to live

Crime Rate Comparisons

Utah's crime rates differ from the national averages in several ways.

  • Fewer burglaries: 12% vs. 16% nationwide
  • Lower violent crime rate than US average
  • Higher property crime rate: 26% above national average

Economic and Fiscal Stability

Utah's strong economy and fiscal stability contribute significantly to its overall safety rankings.

  • Ranked 1st for economy
  • Ranked 1st for fiscal stability

Personal and Residential Safety

Despite high rankings in other areas, Utah received lower marks for personal and residential safety.

  • Lower rankings in personal safety
  • Challenges in residential safety

Conclusion

While Utah has its share of dangerous cities, it remains one of the safest states overall. Understanding the crime landscape helps residents and visitors stay informed and make safer choices.

Caution and Perspective: The Nuances of Crime Data

When examining crime data, it's essential to approach it with caution and perspective. Crime statistics can be influenced by various factors.

Data Limitations

Crime data isn't always precise. A single random act of violence can significantly impact a city's ranking.

  • Random acts influence rankings
  • Data can be skewed

Research and Decision-Making

While the information provided aims to be accurate, personal research is crucial. Always consider multiple sources before making decisions.

  • Do your own research
  • Consider multiple sources

Engage and Share

Your opinions matter. If you agree or disagree with the data, sharing your thoughts can foster a more comprehensive discussion.

  • Share your opinions
  • Engage in discussions

American Fork: The Surprising Danger in Utah County

American Fork stands out as a surprising danger in Utah County as Utah's largest county, despite not making the top 10 most dangerous cities list.

Population and Growth

American Fork has nearly 43,000 residents and is growing rapidly. This growth brings both opportunities and challenges.

Crime Statistics

The city experiences 36 violent crimes and 606 property crimes annually. This results in a total crime rate of 34.4 per 1,000 residents.

Crime Index Score

American Fork has a crime index score of eight, indicating that 92% of U.S. cities are safer. Despite this, its violent crime rate of 1.93 is relatively low compared to other cities on the list.

Safety Implications

While American Fork's property crime rate is concerning, its lower violent crime rate offers some reassurance. However, residents and potential movers should remain aware of the city's crime landscape.

Connecting with a Utah Real Estate Expert

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