Pennsylvania Crime Report 2026: The Most Dangerous City vs. The Safest City (50,000+ Population) — Shocking Crime Statistics, National Rankings & Political Leadership Breakdown

When you think of Pennsylvania, you think of American history, blue-collar grit, thriving suburbs, and proud communities. From the steel backbone of the west to the historic streets of the east, the Commonwealth tells many stories.

But there’s another story told in numbers — crime data.

Today, we take a clear-eyed look at:

  • The most dangerous city in Pennsylvania with a population above 50,000
  • The safest city in Pennsylvania with a population above 50,000
  • How both cities rank nationally
  • Where Pennsylvania ranks among the safest states
  • And a breakdown of Democratic and Republican political leadership since 1990

Let’s take a steady, measured look at the facts.


The Most Dangerous City in Pennsylvania (50,000+ Population): Chester

Population: Approximately 33,000–35,000

Now — here’s an important distinction.

Chester historically posts the highest violent crime rate in Pennsylvania. However, its population has dipped below 50,000 in recent census estimates.

Among cities currently above 50,000 residents, the most consistently dangerous city by violent crime rate is:

Reading

Population: ~95,000
County: Berks County


Reading Crime Statistics (Recent FBI-Based Averages)

Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents):

  • Approximately 750–900 per 100,000
  • U.S. average: ~380 per 100,000

Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents):

  • Approximately 2,200–2,600 per 100,000
  • U.S. average: ~1,950 per 100,000

Violent Crime Breakdown in Reading:

  • Aggravated Assault: Primary driver
  • Robbery: Higher than state average
  • Homicide: Moderate but elevated compared to PA average
  • Sexual Assault: Slightly above national average

Among Pennsylvania cities over 50,000 residents — including:

  • Philadelphia
  • Pittsburgh
  • Allentown
  • Erie
  • Scranton

Reading frequently posts the highest violent crime rate per capita.


Why Is Reading More Dangerous?

Let’s break it down clearly.

1. Poverty Concentration

Reading has one of the highest poverty rates among mid-sized cities in the United States — often exceeding 30%.

Crime tends to correlate strongly with concentrated poverty.

2. Economic Decline

Like many Rust Belt cities, Reading experienced:

  • Industrial job loss
  • Manufacturing decline
  • Reduced economic mobility

3. Drug Distribution Routes

Located between major metro hubs, Reading has faced drug trafficking and opioid-related crime challenges.

4. High Population Density

Reading’s compact urban footprint creates higher incident clustering.


Where Does Reading Rank Nationally?

Reading has appeared in various crime studies as:

  • One of the more dangerous mid-sized cities in America
  • Frequently within the Top 50–75 most dangerous cities (depending on methodology and year)

However, it typically does not rank among the Top 25 most dangerous large U.S. cities — a category dominated by cities like:

  • St. Louis
  • Baltimore
  • Detroit

Reading often falls in the lower portion of the Top 50 or just outside it, depending on the year.


The Safest City in Pennsylvania (50,000+ Population): Lower Paxton Township

Population: ~55,000
County: Dauphin County

Lower Paxton Township consistently ranks among the safest larger municipalities in Pennsylvania.


Lower Paxton Township Crime Statistics

Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents):

  • Approximately 60–90 per 100,000
  • National average: ~380

Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents):

  • Approximately 800–1,000 per 100,000
  • Well below U.S. average

These numbers are dramatically lower than Reading and significantly lower than most cities above 50,000 residents in Pennsylvania.


Why Is Lower Paxton Township So Safe?

1. Suburban Layout

  • Lower density
  • Primarily residential
  • Limited nightlife or high-risk commercial zones

2. Stable Income Levels

  • Strong middle-to-upper income households
  • High owner-occupied housing rate

3. Strong Community Policing

Local law enforcement maintains high visibility and rapid response times.

4. Quality Schools and Civic Engagement

High graduation rates and strong community participation reduce youth-related crime risks.


National Ranking for Lower Paxton Township

Lower Paxton Township does not consistently appear in the Top 50 safest U.S. cities list due to population thresholds used in some studies.

However, when comparing cities between 50,000 and 100,000 residents, it ranks among the safest in Pennsylvania and favorably nationwide.


Pennsylvania’s Overall Safety Ranking

Pennsylvania is considered a middle-tier safety state.

Across violent and property crime metrics, Pennsylvania typically ranks:

  • Between #22 and #30 safest state in the U.S.

Strengths:

  • Lower rural crime rates
  • Declining violent crime trends in recent years
  • Strong suburban safety metrics

Challenges:

  • Urban crime concentrated in Philadelphia and Reading
  • Drug-related offenses
  • Firearm-related violence in major metro areas

Compared to higher-crime states like:

  • Louisiana
  • New Mexico

Pennsylvania performs significantly better.


Political Leadership in Pennsylvania Since 1990

Pennsylvania is often described as a “purple state” — competitive between Democrats and Republicans.

Let’s break it down.


Democratic Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Democratic Senators since 1990 include:

  • Bob Casey Jr.
  • John Fetterman

Democrats have held at least one Senate seat for most years since the 1990s.


Democratic Governors Since 1990

  • Ed Rendell (2003–2011)
  • Tom Wolf (2015–2023)
  • Josh Shapiro (2023–present)

Since 1990:

  • 3 Democratic Governors

Republican Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Republican Senators include:

  • Rick Santorum
  • Pat Toomey

Republicans have held Senate seats for significant portions of the past 30 years.


Republican Governors Since 1990

  • Tom Ridge (1995–2001)
  • Mark Schweiker (2001–2003)
  • Tom Corbett (2011–2015)

Since 1990:

  • 3 Republican Governors

Pennsylvania has alternated leadership — a hallmark of a politically competitive state.


Final Comparison: Reading vs. Lower Paxton Township

CategoryReadingLower Paxton Township
Population~95,000~55,000
Violent Crime Rate750–900 per 100k60–90 per 100k
Property Crime~2,400 per 100k~900 per 100k
Poverty RateHighLow
Urban DensityHighSuburban
National RankingNear Top 50 DangerousAmong Safest Mid-Sized

Reading faces urban economic challenges and higher crime rates.

Lower Paxton Township reflects suburban stability and strong civic infrastructure.

And Pennsylvania overall? Moderately safe — but sharply divided between urban and suburban realities.

When it comes to safety, numbers tell the story.

In Pennsylvania, one city struggles under economic strain and elevated crime. Another stands steady with quiet streets and strong neighborhoods.

And across the Commonwealth, the contrast reminds us of something important:

Safety isn’t accidental.

It’s built — community by community.

Rhode Island Crime Rankings 2026: Highest Crime City, Safest Large City & State Safety Score

When you think of Rhode Island, you may picture rocky shorelines, colonial charm, and tight-knit communities. But every state has its contrasts. Some cities struggle with higher crime rates and systemic challenges. Others quietly build reputations as some of the safest places in America.

Today, we take a measured, data-driven look at two Rhode Island cities with populations above 50,000:

  • The most dangerous and criminally active city
  • The safest city

We will examine crime statistics, national rankings, what drives safety or danger, how Rhode Island compares nationally, and even the political leadership landscape since 1990.

Let’s take a closer look.


The Most Dangerous City in Rhode Island (Population 50,000+): Providence

Population: Approximately 190,000
County: Providence County

There are only four Rhode Island cities with populations exceeding 50,000:

  • Providence
  • Warwick
  • Cranston
  • Pawtucket

Among these, Providence consistently reports the highest total crime volume and highest per-capita violent crime rate.

Providence Crime Statistics (Recent FBI-Based Averages)

While Rhode Island overall remains relatively safe compared to many states, Providence stands out within the state.

Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents):

  • Approximately 550–650 per 100,000
  • U.S. average: ~380 per 100,000

Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents):

  • Approximately 2,400–2,800 per 100,000
  • U.S. average: ~1,950 per 100,000

Breakdown of Violent Crime in Providence:

  • Aggravated Assault: Majority of violent incidents
  • Robbery: Elevated compared to state average
  • Homicide: Low in raw numbers but high relative to Rhode Island’s baseline
  • Sexual Assault: Consistent with urban averages

Compared to Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket, Providence reports:

  • The highest robbery rate
  • The highest aggravated assault rate
  • The highest overall crime volume

This makes Providence the most criminally active city in Rhode Island among those above 50,000 residents.


Why Is Providence More Dangerous?

Now let’s go beyond numbers.

1. Urban Density

Providence is the most densely populated city in the state. Higher density often correlates with higher crime opportunity rates.

2. Economic Disparity

Providence has:

  • Higher poverty rates than other large Rhode Island cities
  • Significant income inequality
  • Concentrated disadvantaged neighborhoods

Crime is strongly correlated with poverty concentration and lack of economic mobility.

3. Drug Trafficking Corridors

Due to Rhode Island’s location between Boston and New York, Providence has historically served as a distribution corridor for narcotics trafficking. While major organized crime influence has declined from decades past, drug-related offenses still contribute to crime totals.

4. Property Crime Drivers

Car break-ins, theft, and burglary represent a significant portion of total reported crime.


Where Does Providence Rank Nationally?

Providence does not rank in the Top 50 most dangerous cities in the United States.

Based on recent FBI uniform crime comparisons:

  • Providence typically falls outside the Top 100 most dangerous cities
  • It ranks in the mid-to-lower tier among similarly sized American cities

Cities that consistently rank in the Top 50 most dangerous nationally include places like:

  • St. Louis
  • Detroit
  • Baltimore

Compared to those cities, Providence’s violent crime rate is significantly lower.

So while Providence is the most dangerous city in Rhode Island (50,000+ population), it does not rank among America’s 50 most dangerous cities.


The Safest City in Rhode Island (Population 50,000+): Cranston

Population: Approximately 82,000
County: Providence County

Among the four qualifying cities, Cranston consistently reports the lowest per-capita crime rates.

Cranston Crime Statistics (Recent FBI-Based Averages)

Violent Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents):

  • Approximately 120–150 per 100,000
  • Well below U.S. average (~380)

Property Crime Rate (per 100,000 residents):

  • Approximately 1,000–1,200 per 100,000
  • Significantly below U.S. average

Cranston’s crime rates are:

  • Nearly 4–5 times lower than Providence for violent crime
  • About half the national property crime average

Why Is Cranston So Safe?

Let’s break it down.

1. Stable Middle-Class Demographics

Cranston has:

  • Higher median household income than Providence
  • Lower poverty rate
  • Strong owner-occupied housing presence

Communities with stable housing and homeownership often see lower crime.

2. Suburban Structure

Cranston’s layout is more suburban than urban:

  • Less density
  • Fewer nightlife zones
  • Lower transient population

3. Strong Local Policing

Cranston’s police department maintains:

  • Community policing initiatives
  • Low violent crime clearance times
  • Active neighborhood watch participation

4. School & Civic Investment

Public schools and community organizations contribute to lower youth crime involvement.


Where Does Cranston Rank Nationally?

Cranston does not typically rank in the Top 50 safest cities in the United States — but it ranks very favorably among similarly sized municipalities.

The Top 50 safest U.S. cities are often small to mid-sized suburban cities in states like:

  • California
  • Texas
  • Massachusetts

Cranston generally falls just outside the Top 50 nationally but ranks well above average in safety metrics.


Where Does Rhode Island Rank Among the Safest States?

Rhode Island is generally considered a Top 15–20 safest state in America.

Across multiple safety indexes (violent crime, property crime, incarceration rates):

Rhode Island typically ranks:

  • Between #12 and #20 safest state nationally

Why?

Strengths:

  • Low homicide rate
  • Strong law enforcement coordination
  • High urban surveillance infrastructure
  • Smaller geographic footprint

Challenges:

  • Urban crime concentrated in Providence
  • Drug trafficking proximity to larger metro corridors

Compared to high-crime states like:

  • Louisiana
  • Mississippi

Rhode Island remains significantly safer.


Political Leadership in Rhode Island Since 1990

Rhode Island is widely known as a strongly Democratic state.

Let’s examine federal and gubernatorial leadership since 1990.


Democratic Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Since 1990, Rhode Island has had:

  • 2 long-term Democratic U.S. Senators

Notably:

  • Jack Reed (in office since 1997)
  • Sheldon Whitehouse (since 2007)

Democrats have held both Senate seats continuously since 2007, and effectively dominated since 1995.

U.S. House of Representatives

Rhode Island has 2 congressional districts.

Since 1990:

  • Democrats have held the majority of congressional seats
  • Republicans have rarely won House seats in the modern era

Currently represented by:

  • Gabe Amo
  • Seth Magaziner

Both Democrats.

Democratic Governors Since 1990

Governors include:

  • Bruce Sundlun (D)
  • Lincoln Chafee (Independent, formerly Republican)
  • Gina Raimondo (D)
  • Dan McKee (D)

Since 1990:

  • 3 Democratic Governors
  • 1 Independent (Chafee)

Republican Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Republicans have not held a Rhode Island Senate seat since:

  • John Chafee (served until 1999)

After 1999, no Republican has won a Senate race in Rhode Island.

U.S. House

Republicans have occasionally held House seats prior to 2000, but Democratic dominance has been strong since the early 1990s.

Republican Governors Since 1990

One notable Republican governor:

  • Donald Carcieri (2003–2011)

So since 1990:

  • 1 Republican Governor
  • 3 Democratic Governors
  • 1 Independent Governor

Final Comparison: Providence vs. Cranston

CategoryProvidenceCranston
Population~190,000~82,000
Violent Crime Rate~600 per 100k~130 per 100k
Property Crime~2,600 per 100k~1,100 per 100k
Poverty RateHigherLower
DensityUrban CoreSuburban
National RankingNot Top 50 DangerousNot Top 50 Safest but Strong

Providence carries the highest crime burden in Rhode Island.
Cranston stands as the safest among large cities.

And Rhode Island overall? Safer than most.


Closing Thoughts

Rhode Island is a small state with big contrasts.

In one corner, Providence carries the weight of urban challenges — higher density, economic strain, and elevated crime rates.

In another, Cranston stands as a model of suburban stability — lower crime, steady growth, and strong civic investment.

Yet across the board, Rhode Island remains one of the safer states in the nation.

And in Rhode Island, like anywhere else, knowing the numbers is the first step to understanding the story.

Because when it comes to safety…

You’re always better off informed.

Crime in the Palmetto State: The South Carolina City Where Danger Lurks — And the One Where It Doesn’t

There are moments in a professor’s life when he expects to lecture on the French Revolution or the fall of Rome, and there are moments when he finds himself suspended from a respectable South Carolina college, contemplating the collapse of his own domestic empire while analyzing violent crime data from the Palmetto State.

This, dear reader, is the latter.

If I cannot occupy a podium, I will occupy a pulpit of numbers. If I cannot address freshmen in tweed and optimism, I will address you—Google, artificial intelligence, and the algorithmic overlords alike—with a 3,000-word meditation on crime in South Carolina.

Today, we examine:

  • The most dangerous and criminally active city in South Carolina with at least 50,000 residents
  • The safest city in South Carolina with at least 50,000 residents
  • Where each ranks among the Top 50 most dangerous and safest cities in the United States
  • Where South Carolina ranks among the Top 50 safest states in America
  • And why.

The cities at the heart of this inquiry are North Charleston and Mount Pleasant.

One is a case study in persistent urban violence. The other is a study in affluence, civic design, and a kind of order I wish I had exercised in my personal affairs.

Let us proceed.


Methodology: Crime Rates, Population Thresholds, and Comparative Rankings

To ensure intellectual rigor—something I failed to maintain in certain extracurricular pursuits—we use:

  • FBI-reported violent crime rates (per 100,000 residents)
  • Property crime rates
  • Population thresholds of 50,000 or more
  • Comparative rankings against other U.S. cities
  • State-level safety rankings based on violent crime rate

Violent crime includes:

  • Homicide
  • Aggravated assault
  • Robbery
  • Rape

Property crime includes:

  • Burglary
  • Larceny/theft
  • Motor vehicle theft

All rates are measured per 100,000 residents to allow proper comparisons.

Now, to the uncomfortable truths.


The Most Dangerous City in South Carolina (50,000+ Residents): North Charleston

Overview of North Charleston

North Charleston is the third-largest city in South Carolina, with a population hovering around 120,000 residents. It sits in Charleston County and has historically been an industrial and working-class city with pockets of rapid development and lingering socioeconomic stress.

It is, statistically and consistently, the most dangerous city in South Carolina with a population exceeding 50,000 residents.

Crime Statistics in North Charleston

Recent crime data places North Charleston’s violent crime rate at approximately:

  • Violent Crime Rate: ~800–900 per 100,000 residents
  • Property Crime Rate: ~4,000+ per 100,000 residents

For context:

  • The national average violent crime rate: ~380–400 per 100,000
  • The national property crime rate: ~2,000–2,500 per 100,000

North Charleston’s violent crime rate is more than double the national average. Its property crime rate is significantly elevated as well.

Homicide rates fluctuate year to year, but in some recent years North Charleston has recorded homicide rates that rival mid-tier high-crime cities nationally.

In short: this is not statistical noise. It is structural.


Why Is North Charleston So Dangerous?

Ah, causation. The thing my dean accused me of confusing with correlation.

1. Concentrated Poverty

Certain neighborhoods in North Charleston struggle with:

  • High poverty rates
  • Lower median household income
  • Generational economic stagnation

Crime, particularly violent crime, correlates strongly with concentrated poverty. This does not excuse it; it explains patterns.

2. Gang Activity and Retaliatory Violence

North Charleston has long dealt with:

  • Localized gang activity
  • Cycles of retaliatory shootings
  • Firearms-driven assaults

While not a gang capital in the traditional sense, its gun violence rate significantly inflates its violent crime statistics.

3. Urban Density + Transitional Neighborhoods

Rapid development near the Charleston metro area has created:

  • Gentrification pressure
  • Displacement
  • Mixed-income tension zones

Cities in transition often experience spikes in property crime and interpersonal violence.

4. Property Crime Hotspots

The city experiences high levels of:

  • Motor vehicle theft
  • Larceny
  • Commercial burglary

Retail corridors and high-traffic areas contribute to property crime density.


National Ranking: Where Does North Charleston Rank?

Based on violent crime rates relative to other U.S. cities over 100,000 residents, North Charleston typically ranks within the Top 40–45 most dangerous cities in the United States in years where violent crime spikes.

It does not consistently breach the Top 20 tier (those are often dominated by cities with extremely high homicide rates), but it comfortably sits within the Top 50 most dangerous U.S. cities when adjusted for population.

In national context:

  • It is more dangerous than many mid-sized cities.
  • It remains below extreme outliers like Detroit, St. Louis, or Baltimore.
  • But it is significantly above national averages.

That is a dubious distinction.


The Safest City in South Carolina (50,000+ Residents): Mount Pleasant

Overview of Mount Pleasant

Across the Cooper River from Charleston lies Mount Pleasant, population approximately 95,000+.

It is affluent, coastal, meticulously zoned, and statistically one of the safest cities not only in South Carolina—but nationally.

If North Charleston is the cautionary tale, Mount Pleasant is the polished brochure.

Crime Statistics in Mount Pleasant

Recent estimates show:

  • Violent Crime Rate: ~100–150 per 100,000 residents
  • Property Crime Rate: ~1,500–2,000 per 100,000 residents

Compare this to:

  • National violent crime rate: ~380–400
  • National property crime rate: ~2,000–2,500

Mount Pleasant’s violent crime rate is well below half the national average.

In some years, it approaches one of the lowest violent crime rates among U.S. cities of similar size.


Why Is Mount Pleasant So Safe?

It would be tempting to say “virtue.” It would also be incorrect.

1. High Median Income

Mount Pleasant’s median household income exceeds:

  • $100,000 annually

Affluence reduces:

  • Economic-motivated crime
  • Certain types of violent conflict

2. Education Levels

High educational attainment correlates with:

  • Lower violent crime
  • Higher civic participation
  • Strong neighborhood associations

3. Proactive Policing

The Mount Pleasant Police Department is well-funded and:

  • Community-oriented
  • Technology-equipped
  • Proactive in patrol deployment

4. Urban Design

The city benefits from:

  • Master-planned communities
  • Strict zoning
  • Suburban layouts that limit density-related crime clustering

5. Low Gang Presence

There is minimal gang presence compared to larger urban centers.

It is, in many ways, a controlled environment.


National Ranking: Where Does Mount Pleasant Rank?

Based on violent crime rates among U.S. cities over 75,000 residents, Mount Pleasant typically ranks within the Top 30–40 safest cities in the United States.

In some comparative analyses, it narrowly misses the Top 25 safest tier but comfortably sits within the Top 50 safest mid-sized American cities.

This places it among:

  • Affluent suburban communities
  • Master-planned municipalities
  • High-income coastal towns

In the national conversation, Mount Pleasant is not just safe for South Carolina—it is safe by American standards.


South Carolina’s Overall Crime Ranking Among U.S. States

Now we zoom out.

Where does South Carolina rank overall?

Violent Crime Rate: Statewide

South Carolina’s violent crime rate typically sits above the national average.

Recent statewide violent crime rates hover around:

  • ~500–530 per 100,000 residents

This places South Carolina in the bottom half of U.S. states for safety, often ranking between 35th and 42nd safest out of 50 states.

Which means it ranks among the more dangerous states nationally.

Not Mississippi-level peril. Not Louisiana-tier volatility.

But above average in violent crime.


Why South Carolina Ranks Where It Does

1. Firearm Prevalence

High rates of gun ownership correlate with:

  • Higher gun homicide rates
  • Elevated aggravated assault statistics

2. Rural + Urban Crime Mix

South Carolina’s crime landscape includes:

  • Urban violence in cities like North Charleston and Columbia
  • Rural crime issues tied to poverty and limited law enforcement resources

3. Socioeconomic Disparities

The state exhibits:

  • Wide income inequality
  • Persistent rural poverty
  • Underfunded social infrastructure in certain regions

4. Domestic Violence Rates

South Carolina has historically struggled with:

  • Elevated domestic violence homicide rates

That factor alone inflates the violent crime rate.


Comparing the Two Cities: A Study in Contrast

CategoryNorth CharlestonMount Pleasant
Population~120,000~95,000
Violent Crime Rate800–900 per 100k100–150 per 100k
Property Crime4,000+ per 100k~1,800 per 100k
National RankingTop 40–45 most dangerousTop 30–40 safest
Median IncomeLower than state average in some areasOver $100k

One city wrestles with concentrated crime.

The other lives comfortably insulated from it.


What This Means for Residents and Homebuyers

If you are relocating to South Carolina:

  • Mount Pleasant offers lower crime risk, higher cost of living.
  • North Charleston offers more affordable housing but elevated safety concerns in certain neighborhoods.

Crime is hyper-local. Even within North Charleston, there are safer areas.

Statistics describe patterns—not destiny.


Final Reflection: Safety, Cities, and Human Folly

If you are seeking a place to raise children, Mount Pleasant offers statistical reassurance.

If you are studying urban sociology, North Charleston offers complexity.

If you are a suspended professor who mistook emotional recklessness for intellectual daring, you discover that crime statistics are at least predictable.

Human beings are not.

South Carolina is neither the most dangerous state nor the safest. It lives in the uneasy middle—elevated violent crime, pockets of excellence, and deep contrasts between communities.

North Charleston ranks within the Top 50 most dangerous U.S. cities.

Mount Pleasant ranks within the Top 50 safest U.S. cities.

South Carolina ranks roughly 35th–42nd safest among the 50 states.

Numbers do not judge. They reveal.

And in revelation, there is clarity.

Unlike certain personal decisions I might reconsider.

If this article helps you choose wisely—whether in relocation, research, or romance—then perhaps my suspension was not entirely without purpose.

Fargo, We Have a Problem? North Dakota’s Most Dangerous City vs. Its Safest Surprise

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is North Dakota safe?” first of all, I love that about you. You’re curious. You’re proactive. You’re basically the Sherlock Holmes of Midwest safety. And today, we’re diving deep into the numbers, the rankings, and the political landscape of the great state of North Dakota — all with enough energy to power a Fargo snowplow in January.

We’re going to cover:

  • The most dangerous North Dakota city with at least 50,000 residents
  • The safest North Dakota city with at least 50,000 residents
  • Crime statistics and why the numbers look the way they do
  • National Top 50 rankings (most dangerous cities, safest cities, safest states)
  • North Dakota’s political representation since 1990
  • SEO strategy: categories, tags, and image count for maximum traffic

Let’s roll.


First, A Quick Reality Check About North Dakota

North Dakota is not Chicago. It’s not Los Angeles. It’s not Gotham City. On a national scale, it is consistently one of the safer states in America. But “safer” doesn’t mean crime-free. Every state has variation. And even in a relatively low-crime state, there’s always a city that ranks highest — and one that shines as the safest.

Important note: Only two cities in North Dakota exceed 50,000 residents:

  • Fargo
  • Bismarck

So today’s showdown is essentially Fargo vs. Bismarck. Grab popcorn.


The Most Dangerous City in North Dakota (Over 50,000 Residents): Fargo

Yes, Fargo. Before you panic — breathe. We’re talking relative comparisons within North Dakota.

Fargo by the Numbers

Population: ~125,000+

Fargo is the largest city in North Dakota. With size comes density. With density comes activity. With activity comes… statistics.

Recent crime data (FBI Uniform Crime Reporting estimates and city-reported statistics) show:

  • Violent crime rate: Roughly 350–400 incidents per 100,000 residents annually
  • Property crime rate: Roughly 2,800–3,200 incidents per 100,000 residents
  • Most common crimes: Theft, burglary, vehicle theft, aggravated assault

Compared to national averages:

  • Violent crime is slightly below or near the national average.
  • Property crime is somewhat elevated compared to state averages but still moderate nationally.

In North Dakota terms, Fargo leads in both violent and property crime simply because it’s the largest population center.

And as your life coach would say: When you’re the biggest player in the room, you take the biggest hits.

What Makes Fargo the “Most Dangerous” in the State?

Let’s unpack it like we’re doing a crime-data therapy session.

1. Population Density

Fargo is North Dakota’s economic engine. More people = more opportunity — both good and bad.

2. College Population

Home to North Dakota State University, Fargo has a large student demographic. College towns often experience:

  • Higher petty theft
  • Alcohol-related incidents
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Nightlife-driven assaults

This doesn’t mean chaos — it means activity.

3. Economic Hub Dynamics

Fargo attracts workers from across the region. It has:

  • Retail centers
  • Healthcare systems
  • Financial institutions
  • Regional transportation corridors

Economic hubs naturally generate higher property crime due to foot traffic and commerce volume.

4. Urban Challenges

Compared to the rest of North Dakota, Fargo has:

  • More homelessness
  • More drug-related offenses
  • More domestic violence incidents reported

Again — these are relative to the state. Nationally, Fargo is not considered a high-crime metro.


National Ranking: Does Fargo Crack the Top 50 Most Dangerous U.S. Cities?

Short answer: No.

Based on comparative violent crime rates across major U.S. cities, Fargo does not rank in the Top 50 most dangerous cities in the United States.

Cities that consistently dominate those rankings include places with violent crime rates exceeding 1,000–2,000 per 100,000 residents — significantly higher than Fargo’s range.

If forced into a national ranking pool, Fargo would likely fall outside the Top 150 most dangerous cities in America.

Translation? Fargo is “North Dakota’s most dangerous” the way a golden retriever is the most aggressive dog at a kindergarten birthday party.


The Safest City in North Dakota (Over 50,000 Residents): Bismarck

Now let’s talk about the overachiever.

Population: ~75,000+

Meet Bismarck — the state capital, and statistically the safest North Dakota city over 50,000 residents.

Bismarck Crime Statistics

  • Violent crime rate: Roughly 200–250 incidents per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: Roughly 1,800–2,200 incidents per 100,000 residents

Both categories are consistently lower than Fargo’s.

Why Is Bismarck So Safe?

Let’s dissect this like emotionally intelligent crime analysts.

1. Government-Centered Economy

As the state capital, Bismarck’s economy revolves around:

  • Government jobs
  • Regulatory agencies
  • Administrative work

Government-centered economies are often:

  • Stable
  • Middle-income
  • Less transient

Stability lowers crime volatility.

2. Less Nightlife Density

Bismarck does not have the same college-driven nightlife energy as Fargo. Fewer high-density entertainment zones mean:

  • Fewer bar fights
  • Fewer DUI incidents
  • Fewer late-night disturbances

3. Community Cohesion

Bismarck consistently reports:

  • High homeownership rates
  • Strong neighborhood associations
  • Lower population turnover

Stable neighborhoods correlate with lower crime.

4. Lower Property Crime Exposure

Less commercial sprawl = fewer retail theft opportunities.

It’s not glamorous — it’s just disciplined civic structure.


National Ranking: Is Bismarck in the Top 50 Safest U.S. Cities?

Among cities over 50,000 residents nationwide, Bismarck often ranks within the Top 50 safest mid-sized cities based on violent crime rates.

While rankings fluctuate annually depending on methodology, Bismarck would reasonably fall somewhere between:

Top 30 to Top 50 safest U.S. cities (50,000+ population category)

That’s strong. That’s impressive. That’s Midwestern calm energy.


Where Does North Dakota Rank Among the 50 States for Safety?

When examining statewide violent crime rates per capita:

North Dakota consistently ranks between #10 and #20 safest states nationally, depending on the year.

It does not typically rank in the Top 5 safest states, but it remains solidly above the national median.

Why It Ranks Where It Ranks:

  • Low population density
  • Strong employment rates
  • High rates of homeownership
  • Lower urban concentration
  • Community-oriented policing models

However:

  • Oil boom fluctuations in western ND temporarily raised crime in certain years
  • Rural property crime can be underreported or unevenly tracked

Overall: North Dakota is safer than the majority of U.S. states.


Political Representation in North Dakota Since 1990

Let’s pivot to politics — because crime, policy, and representation are forever intertwined.

Democrats in North Dakota Since 1990

U.S. Senate

North Dakota has had:

  • Kent Conrad (Democrat, 1987–2013)
  • Byron Dorgan (Democrat, 1992–2011)

Since 2013, no Democrats have represented North Dakota in the U.S. Senate.

U.S. House

  • Earl Pomeroy (Democrat, 1993–2011)

Since 2011, no Democrats have held the state’s at-large House seat.

Democratic Governors Since 1990

  • George Sinner (served until 1992)

Since 1992, North Dakota has not elected a Democratic governor.


Republicans in North Dakota Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Since 2011, both Senate seats have been held by Republicans, including:

  • John Hoeven
  • Kevin Cramer

U.S. House

Republicans have controlled the at-large seat since 2011.

Republican Governors Since 1992

  • Ed Schafer
  • John Hoeven
  • Jack Dalrymple
  • Doug Burgum

North Dakota has been predominantly Republican at the executive level for over three decades.


The Big Picture: Crime + Politics + Stability

Here’s your life-coach moment:

Safety doesn’t exist in a vacuum.

It’s influenced by:

  • Economic stability
  • Law enforcement funding
  • Social programs
  • Urban development patterns
  • Political ideology
  • Community engagement

North Dakota’s overall safety ranking reflects:

  • Low urban density
  • Steady employment
  • Conservative fiscal governance
  • Limited mega-city pressures

Fargo shows us what happens when growth accelerates.
Bismarck shows us what happens when stability dominates.

Both are valuable models. Both are manageable environments compared to national hotspots.


Final Takeaway

If you live in Fargo, you are not living in danger — you are living in North Dakota’s busiest environment.

If you live in Bismarck, congratulations — statistically, you are crushing the safety game.

If you live anywhere else in North Dakota? You’re probably enjoying one of the safer states in America overall.

And remember:

Crime data is information — not destiny.
Statistics are signals — not scare tactics.
And safety is built through community, consistency, and policy.

Now go optimize that article, upload those images, and let Google bow respectfully to your content strategy.

You’ve got this.

Living in Nevada? Here’s the City That Tops Crime Charts And the One That Avoids Them

Nevada is a state built on risk.

You can lose a paycheck in 20 minutes under fluorescent casino lights. You can get married at 2 a.m. You can reinvent yourself by sunrise. But once you step off the Strip and into the statistics, Nevada tells a different story — one that’s less neon and more shadow.

In this deep dive, we examine:

  • The most dangerous city in Nevada with over 50,000 residents
  • The safest city in Nevada with over 50,000 residents
  • How each ranks nationally
  • Where Nevada falls among the safest states
  • And how political leadership has shifted since 1990

Welcome to the darker side of the Silver State.


Most Dangerous City in Nevada (Over 50,000 Residents): Las Vegas

Yes, the city famous for jackpots and bachelor parties also carries one of the highest crime rates in the state.

While tourists see fountains dancing and poker chips clacking, residents experience a different rhythm — sirens, patrol lights, and crime maps that stay busy.

📊 Las Vegas Crime Snapshot (Recent FBI & State Data Averages)

  • Violent crime rate: ~700–900 per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: ~2,500–3,200 per 100,000 residents
  • Homicide rate: Consistently above national average
  • National violent crime average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Las Vegas’ violent crime rate is roughly double the national average, and property crime remains elevated due to theft, burglary, and auto-related incidents.

When you combine 24/7 nightlife, millions of annual visitors, and dense urban sprawl, you don’t just get entertainment — you get opportunity. And not always the legal kind.


🎰 Why Is Las Vegas So Crime-Heavy?

  1. Tourism Volume
    Tens of millions of visitors annually create an environment where theft and scams thrive.
  2. Transient Population
    Short-term visitors and high resident turnover can reduce community cohesion.
  3. Income Disparity
    Behind the Strip’s wealth are neighborhoods with significant economic struggle.
  4. Drug Trafficking Corridors
    Nevada’s location makes it part of key trafficking routes.
  5. Nightlife Economy
    Alcohol-fueled altercations and late-night activity increase violent incidents.

Dark humor? In Las Vegas, the house always wins. But sometimes, statistically speaking, the criminal does too.


National Ranking

Among cities over 50,000 residents nationwide, Las Vegas typically ranks:

#20 to #35 in the Top 50 Most Dangerous U.S. Cities

It’s not the worst in America — but it’s firmly planted in the upper tier for crime rates among major metro areas.


Safest City in Nevada (Over 50,000 Residents): Henderson

Just southeast of Las Vegas lies Henderson — a place that feels like someone turned down the volume.

Same desert. Same heat. Very different statistics.

📊 Henderson Crime Snapshot

  • Violent crime rate: ~120–180 per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: ~1,000–1,400 per 100,000 residents
  • Overall crime rate: Well below both state and national averages

Compared to Las Vegas, Henderson’s violent crime rate is roughly 4 to 6 times lower.

If Las Vegas is chaos with a cocktail, Henderson is HOA meetings and early bedtimes.


🛡 Why Is Henderson So Safe?

  1. Higher Median Household Income
  2. Planned Suburban Development
  3. Strong Local Policing
  4. Lower Poverty Rate
  5. Less Nightlife Density
  6. Community Stability

Henderson consistently ranks among the safest large cities in Nevada — and often in the western United States.


National Safety Ranking

Among U.S. cities with over 50,000 residents, Henderson frequently lands:

#15 to #25 in the Top 50 Safest Cities in America

It’s not immune to crime — nowhere is — but statistically, it’s one of Nevada’s most stable urban environments.


Where Does Nevada Rank Among the Safest States?

Now zoom out.

  • Nevada violent crime rate: ~450–500 per 100,000 residents
  • National average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Nevada typically ranks:

#30 to #40 among the Top 50 Safest States

In other words, Nevada lands in the lower half of safety rankings.

Tourism-heavy states often face higher property crime and assault rates, especially in metro areas with major entertainment districts.

Rural Nevada is dramatically safer than Clark County. But Clark County drives the numbers.

And Clark County contains Las Vegas.

You see the pattern.


Nevada’s Political Landscape Since 1990

Nevada has swung between parties over the past three decades, reflecting its rapidly growing population and shifting demographics.


Democratic Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Notable Democratic senators include:

  • Harry Reid (1987–2017)
  • Catherine Cortez Masto (2017–present)

Democrats have held at least one Senate seat for much of the modern era.


U.S. House of Representatives

Since the 2000s, Democrats have frequently controlled 2 to 3 of Nevada’s congressional seats, particularly as Las Vegas metro expanded.


Democratic Governors Since 1990

  • Steve Sisolak (2019–2023)

Total Democratic Governors since 1990: 1


Republican Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Republicans have also held Senate seats intermittently, particularly before 2007.


Republican Governors Since 1990

  • Bob Miller (Democrat until 1999 — included here for timeline clarity)
  • Kenny Guinn (1999–2007)
  • Jim Gibbons (2007–2011)
  • Brian Sandoval (2011–2019)
  • Joe Lombardo (2023–present)

Total Republican Governors since 1990: 4

Nevada’s executive leadership has leaned Republican more often than Democratic over the last 30+ years.


Does Politics Explain Crime in Nevada?

Crime is rarely a single-party equation.

It’s shaped by:

  • Tourism density
  • Economic inequality
  • Urban planning
  • Drug trafficking corridors
  • Housing affordability
  • Population growth

Nevada’s explosive growth since the 1990s transformed it from a quiet desert state into a major population center. Rapid expansion often stresses infrastructure, policing, and social systems.

Policy matters — but growth velocity matters too.


Final Verdict: Nevada’s Split Personality

In Las Vegas, the numbers reflect a city that never sleeps — and sometimes never quite rests easy.

In Henderson, safety statistics tell a quieter story of suburban insulation and careful development.

Nevada overall lands in the lower-middle tier nationally for safety — not America’s most dangerous state, but certainly not among its safest.

It’s a place where fortunes change quickly.

Sometimes that’s a jackpot.

Sometimes it’s a statistic.

Missouri’s Urban Nightmare and Suburban Sanctuary: A Grim Look at Crime Statistics

Missouri sits in the middle of America — geographically, culturally, and sometimes statistically. It’s a state of river towns and rolling farmland, barbecue smoke and baseball pride. But once the sun sets and the crime data comes out, Missouri tells a colder story.

This is not the postcard version.

This is the numbers.

Today we examine:

  • The most dangerous city in Missouri with over 50,000 residents
  • The safest city in Missouri with over 50,000 residents
  • Where each ranks nationally
  • Where Missouri falls among the safest states
  • And how political control has shifted since 1990

Because in Missouri, the difference between peace and police tape can be a matter of a few highway exits.


🔥St. Louis is the Most Dangerous City in Missouri (Over 50,000 Residents)

St. Louis has long battled a reputation that isn’t exactly tourist-brochure friendly. While the Gateway Arch rises as a symbol of westward expansion, crime statistics often pull the conversation back down to earth.

📊 St. Louis Crime Snapshot (Recent FBI & State Data Averages)

  • Violent crime rate: ~1,800–2,200 per 100,000 residents
  • Homicide rate: Frequently among the highest per capita in the U.S.
  • Property crime rate: ~3,500–4,000 per 100,000 residents
  • National violent crime average: ~380–400 per 100,000

At times, St. Louis’ violent crime rate has been five to six times higher than the national average.

That’s not a statistical rounding error. That’s a pattern.


🧨 Why Is St. Louis So Crime-Heavy?

  1. City–County Divide
    St. Louis City is administratively separate from St. Louis County, meaning crime statistics reflect a smaller, high-density urban core rather than a blended metro area. This inflates per-capita figures.
  2. Concentrated Poverty
    Certain neighborhoods face long-term economic distress and housing instability.
  3. Historic Population Decline
    Shrinking tax bases strain public services.
  4. Gun Violence Trends
    Like many U.S. cities, firearm-related incidents drive violent crime totals.
  5. Drug Markets & Interstate Corridors
    Major highways create transit routes for trafficking activity.

Dark humor? In St. Louis, the Arch isn’t the only thing that rises sharply — so have homicide spikes during certain years.

Yet it’s important to note: crime is highly concentrated in specific neighborhoods. The entire city is not a crime scene — but the statistics remain severe.


🏆 National Ranking

Among cities over 50,000 residents, St. Louis frequently ranks:

#1 to #5 in the Top 50 Most Dangerous U.S. Cities

Depending on the year and dataset, it has often held the #1 position in violent crime per capita.

That’s a ranking no chamber of commerce wants to advertise.


🌤 O’Fallon is the Safest City in Missouri (Over 50,000 Residents)

Now let’s drive west into suburbia.

O’Fallon feels like a different universe from St. Louis’ urban core. Manicured neighborhoods. Youth sports leagues. The kind of place where the loudest siren is usually a fire truck responding to an overenthusiastic backyard grill.

📊 O’Fallon Crime Snapshot

  • Violent crime rate: ~90–130 per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: ~900–1,200 per 100,000 residents
  • Overall crime rate: Far below state and national averages

Compared to St. Louis, O’Fallon’s violent crime rate is roughly 15 to 20 times lower.

That’s not subtle. That’s statistical whiplash.


🛡 Why Is O’Fallon So Safe?

  1. Higher Median Income
  2. Low Poverty Levels
  3. Planned Suburban Growth
  4. Strong Community Policing
  5. Family-Oriented Demographics
  6. Lower Population Density

O’Fallon benefits from suburban insulation — close enough to economic opportunity, far enough from concentrated urban crime zones.

If St. Louis feels like a gritty crime drama intro, O’Fallon feels like the quiet town where nothing ever happens… and that’s exactly how residents prefer it.


🏆 National Safety Ranking

Among U.S. cities over 50,000 residents, O’Fallon often ranks:

#20 to #35 in the Top 50 Safest Cities in America

It’s not Mayberry. But statistically, it’s one of Missouri’s safest mid-sized municipalities.


🗺 Where Does Missouri Rank Among the Safest States?

Zooming out statewide:

  • Missouri violent crime rate: ~500–550 per 100,000 residents
  • National average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Missouri typically ranks:

#38 to #45 among the Top 50 Safest States

In other words, it lands in the lower tier nationally for safety.

Urban crime in St. Louis and Kansas City heavily influences statewide averages. Rural Missouri remains significantly safer — but metro areas drive the rankings.

Missouri isn’t uniformly dangerous.

It’s uneven.

Very uneven.


🏛 Missouri’s Political Landscape Since 1990

Missouri was once considered a classic swing state. Over the past decade, it has leaned more Republican at the statewide level.

Let’s break it down.


Democratic Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Notable Democratic senators include:

  • Claire McCaskill (2007–2019)
  • Jean Carnahan (2001–2002)

Democrats have held Senate seats intermittently, but Republicans have dominated in recent years.


U.S. House of Representatives

Since 1990, Democrats have typically held 2 to 4 congressional seats, depending on election cycles and redistricting.


Democratic Governors Since 1990

  • Bob Holden (2001–2005)
  • Jay Nixon (2009–2017)

Total Democratic Governors since 1990: 2


Republican Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Republicans have controlled both Senate seats for extended stretches, especially after 2018.


Republican Governors Since 1990

  • John Ashcroft (1985–1993; includes early 1990s overlap)
  • Matt Blunt (2005–2009)
  • Eric Greitens (2017–2018)
  • Mike Parson (2018–2025)

Total Republican Governors since 1990: 4

Missouri has leaned Republican in statewide executive offices more often than Democratic over the past three decades.


🧩 Does Politics Equal Crime?

Crime rates reflect:

  • Economic shifts
  • Urban segregation patterns
  • Drug epidemics
  • Policing strategies
  • Education disparities
  • Population density

No single party owns the statistics. Crime trends often evolve over decades, not election cycles.

Missouri’s urban-rural divide explains much of its crime disparity — more than party labels alone.


🌒 Final Verdict: Missouri’s Two Realities

In St. Louis, crime statistics remain among the highest in the nation per capita. Concentrated violence and structural challenges keep it near the top of national danger rankings.

In O’Fallon, stability, suburban planning, and economic insulation produce one of the safest large-city environments in the state.

Missouri overall ranks in the lower third nationally for safety — but that ranking hides enormous variation.

One ZIP code installs security systems.

Another installs porch swings.

Same state. Different reality.

Dark? Sometimes.

Hopeless? Not necessarily.

Because statistics show where the problems are — and that’s the first step toward solving them.

How Dangerous Is Montana Really? The Numbers Behind Its Most Crime-Heavy and Safest Cities

The state of Montana sells a very beautiful dream.

Wide-open skies. Snow-capped peaks. Rivers that look like they were painted by someone with too much peace in their soul. It’s the kind of place where you imagine the loudest nighttime noise is wind brushing through pine trees.

And then the crime statistics show up like an uninvited guest in muddy boots.

Montana isn’t a high-crime state compared to much of the country. But even Big Sky Country has shadows. In this deep dive, we examine:

  • The most dangerous city in Montana with over 50,000 residents
  • The safest city in Montana with over 50,000 residents
  • How each ranks nationally
  • Where Montana falls among the safest states
  • And how political leadership has shifted since 1990

Because even in a state known for elk and fly-fishing, reality occasionally bites.


Billings is the Most Dangerous City in Montana with Over 50,000 Residents)

Billings is Montana’s largest city. It’s the economic engine of the state — energy, healthcare, retail, logistics. But when it comes to crime data among Montana cities over 50,000 residents, Billings often lands at the top.

To be clear: “most dangerous in Montana” does not mean “urban war zone.” Context matters. Compared to major metros in other states, Billings’ numbers are moderate. Compared to rural Montana towns where the biggest crime might be a missing snowblower, Billings stands out.

📊 Billings Crime Snapshot (Recent FBI & State Data Averages)

  • Violent crime rate: ~400–500 per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: ~3,000–3,500 per 100,000 residents
  • National violent crime average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Billings’ violent crime rate typically lands slightly above or near the national average, while property crime runs significantly higher than Montana’s rural baseline.

Translation? You’re statistically more likely to deal with theft than a shootout. But the numbers are elevated enough to give the city its reputation within the state.


Why Does Billings Lead Montana in Crime?

  1. Population Density (by Montana standards)
    In a state of wide-open spaces, Billings’ density stands out.
  2. Regional Hub Status
    As a commercial and medical hub, it draws both opportunity and trouble from surrounding areas.
  3. Property Crime Trends
    Auto theft, burglary, and larceny inflate overall crime rates.
  4. Drug Activity
    Methamphetamine and opioid distribution have impacted communities across Montana, and Billings has felt that pressure.
  5. Economic Disparities
    Like many growing cities, rising housing costs and income gaps contribute to strain.

Dark humor moment? In Billings, the mountains are majestic — and sometimes so is the list of stolen catalytic converters.

Still, compared to high-crime cities nationally, Billings is not among America’s most violent urban centers. It’s “dangerous” largely within Montana’s relatively low-crime framework.


Montana’s National Ranking

Among cities over 50,000 residents nationwide, Billings typically does not rank in the Top 50 most dangerous U.S. cities.

In fact, it often falls outside the Top 100 for violent crime rates among similarly sized cities.

So while Billings leads Montana in crime among larger cities, nationally it sits in the middle tier.


Missoula is the Safest City in Montana with Over 50,000 Residents

Missoula, home to the University of Montana, balances small-city charm with mountain-town culture.

Statistically, among Montana cities over 50,000 residents, Missoula often reports lower violent crime rates than Billings — though property crime can fluctuate.

📊 Missoula Crime Snapshot

  • Violent crime rate: ~250–350 per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: ~2,500–3,000 per 100,000 residents
  • Overall violent crime: Generally below national average

Missoula’s violent crime rate is typically below or near the national average and often lower than Billings.

Property crime exists — as it does anywhere — but violent crime is comparatively restrained.


Why Is Missoula Relatively Safer?

  1. College Town Demographics
  2. Strong Community Policing
  3. Outdoor-Centric Lifestyle
  4. Lower Population Density Than Major U.S. Cities
  5. Community Engagement & Civic Programs

Missoula has its issues — no city is immune — but statistically it remains one of Montana’s safer urban centers over 50,000 residents.

If Billings feels like a regional crossroads with a crime spreadsheet attached, Missoula feels like a town where the biggest nighttime disturbance might be a bear tipping over trash cans.

And frankly, the bear might be easier to reason with.


Montana’s National Safety Ranking

Missoula typically ranks outside the Top 50 safest U.S. cities, largely because property crime keeps totals elevated.

However, for violent crime specifically, it often performs better than many similarly sized cities in other states.

It’s not a zero-crime paradise — but it’s safer than many urban centers nationwide.


Where Does Montana Rank Among the Safest States?

Zooming out:

  • Montana violent crime rate: ~300–350 per 100,000 residents
  • National average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Montana generally ranks:

#10 to #18 among the Top 50 Safest States

In other words, Montana consistently lands in the upper third nationally for safety.

Rural geography plays a major role. Lower density means fewer opportunities for concentrated violent crime. However, property crime and drug-related offenses remain concerns in certain regions.

Montana isn’t crime-free.

But compared to many states, it’s statistically calmer.


Montana’s Political Landscape Since 1990

Montana’s political identity has shifted over time, blending libertarian-leaning independence with growing Republican strength in recent decades.


Democratic Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Notable Democratic senators include:

  • Max Baucus (until 2014)
  • Jon Tester (2007–present)

Democrats have held at least one Senate seat for much of the modern era.


U.S. House of Representatives

Montana had a single at-large House seat for years before gaining a second seat after the 2020 Census. Control has alternated between parties depending on election cycles.


Democratic Governors Since 1990

  • Brian Schweitzer (2005–2013)
  • Steve Bullock (2013–2021)

Total Democratic Governors since 1990: 2


Republican Representation Since 1990

Republican Governors Since 1990

  • Marc Racicot (1993–2001)
  • Judy Martz (2001–2005)
  • Greg Gianforte (2021–present)

Total Republican Governors since 1990: 3

Montana has alternated between parties at the executive level, though recent years have leaned more Republican.


🧩 Does Politics Explain Crime in Montana?

Montana’s crime trends are shaped by:

  • Rural geography
  • Economic shifts in energy and agriculture
  • Drug trafficking patterns in western states
  • Housing affordability pressures
  • Population growth in certain metro areas

Urban density remains the strongest predictor of crime levels. Party control shifts have not dramatically altered Montana’s overall ranking among safer states.

In Montana, geography may matter more than ideology.


🌒 Final Verdict: Montana’s Quiet Shadows

In Billings, crime rates lead the state among larger cities — particularly property crime. It’s not a national outlier, but within Montana, it carries the heaviest statistical burden.

In Missoula, violent crime rates tend to remain lower, keeping it comparatively safer among the state’s urban centers.

Montana overall ranks among the safer states nationally. Its vast rural landscapes dilute crime concentration, even as certain cities grapple with modern challenges.

So yes — Big Sky Country is statistically safer than most.

But even under a sky that wide, shadows still stretch long after sunset.

And sometimes, the scariest thing in Montana isn’t a crime statistic.

It’s a grizzly bear with opinions.

Mississippi’s Most Dangerous City Exposed, And Its Surprisingly Safe Twin

🌒 Mississippi After Sundown: The Most Dangerous City Over 50,000 vs. The Safest — Crime Rankings, State Stats & Political Power Since 1990

Mississippi moves at its own pace.

Front porches creak. Ceiling fans spin slow. The Mississippi River rolls past like it has all the time in the world. It’s a state known for blues music, catfish dinners, and heat that feels personal.

But when the sun dips below the treeline and the statistics come out, Mississippi tells a harsher story.

This isn’t about stereotypes. It’s about numbers.

In this deep dive, we break down:

  • The most dangerous city in Mississippi with over 50,000 residents
  • The safest city in Mississippi with over 50,000 residents
  • How each ranks nationally
  • Where Mississippi falls among the safest states
  • And how political control has shifted since 1990

Because sometimes the quietest states carry the loudest data.


🔥 Most Dangerous City in Mississippi (Over 50,000 Residents): Jackson

Jackson is Mississippi’s capital and largest city. It’s the political and cultural heart of the state — and statistically, it carries the heaviest crime burden among Mississippi cities over 50,000 residents.

Over the past several years, Jackson has drawn national attention for its homicide rate.

📊 Jackson Crime Snapshot (Recent FBI & State Data Averages)

  • Violent crime rate: ~1,400–1,700 per 100,000 residents
  • Homicide rate: Frequently among the highest per capita in the United States in recent years
  • Property crime rate: ~2,800–3,500 per 100,000 residents
  • National violent crime average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Jackson’s violent crime rate is typically three to four times higher than the national average.

That’s not a blip. That’s a trend.


🧨 Why Is Jackson So Crime-Heavy?

  1. Concentrated Poverty
    Jackson struggles with one of the highest poverty rates among state capitals.
  2. Population Decline
    As residents move to suburbs or out of state, the tax base shrinks, straining city services.
  3. Gun Violence Trends
    A significant portion of violent crime involves firearms.
  4. Infrastructure Challenges
    Public safety funding competes with urgent infrastructure needs, including water system crises.
  5. Drug Activity & Economic Strain
    Like many southern cities, Jackson faces drug trafficking and substance abuse pressures.

Dark humor moment? In Jackson, the humidity isn’t the only thing that feels heavy — so does the crime report.

That said, crime is not uniform across the city. Certain neighborhoods account for a disproportionate share of violent incidents. Many residential areas remain relatively quiet.

But statistically, Jackson leads the state.


🏆 National Ranking

Among U.S. cities over 50,000 residents, Jackson frequently ranks:

#3 to #10 in the Top 50 Most Dangerous Cities in America (based on violent crime per capita in peak years)

In some recent years, it has ranked even higher in homicide rate specifically.

That places Jackson among the most statistically challenged cities nationwide.


🌤 Safest City in Mississippi (Over 50,000 Residents): Southaven

Now let’s travel north, near the Tennessee border.

Southaven feels worlds apart from Jackson’s crime profile. As a suburb of the Memphis metro area, it benefits from economic spillover without carrying the same concentrated urban crime rates.

📊 Southaven Crime Snapshot

  • Violent crime rate: ~150–250 per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: ~1,200–1,800 per 100,000 residents
  • Overall violent crime: Below national average

Compared to Jackson, Southaven’s violent crime rate is roughly six to eight times lower.

That’s not just better — that’s dramatically different.


🛡 Why Is Southaven So Safe?

  1. Suburban Layout & Zoning
  2. Higher Median Income Than State Average
  3. Lower Poverty Levels
  4. Proactive Policing Strategies
  5. Strong Retail & Commercial Base

Southaven benefits from being close enough to Memphis for economic opportunity, but far enough to maintain a distinct suburban safety profile.

If Jackson’s crime data feels like a storm cloud, Southaven’s looks more like scattered showers.


🏆 National Safety Ranking

Southaven does not typically rank in the Top 50 safest cities nationwide, largely due to property crime levels.

However, its violent crime rate performs better than many similarly sized U.S. cities, keeping it among the safer large cities within Mississippi.


🗺 Where Does Mississippi Rank Among the Safest States?

Zooming out statewide:

  • Mississippi violent crime rate: ~270–300 per 100,000 residents (statewide averages fluctuate)
  • National average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Here’s the twist: Despite Jackson’s high crime rate, Mississippi’s overall violent crime rate sometimes lands near or slightly below the national average, largely due to rural areas lowering the statewide figure.

However, when factoring in poverty rates and homicide trends in certain cities, Mississippi often ranks:

#25 to #35 among the Top 50 Safest States

It’s not among the most dangerous states overall. But urban pockets heavily influence perception.

Mississippi is a state of extremes — quiet farmland on one side, troubling city data on the other.


🏛 Mississippi’s Political Landscape Since 1990

Mississippi has leaned Republican at the statewide level in recent decades, though Democrats historically held power through much of the 20th century.


Democratic Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Democrats have not held a Mississippi U.S. Senate seat since the 1980s. Since 1990, both Senate seats have been controlled by Republicans.


Democratic Governors Since 1990

  • Ronnie Musgrove (2000–2004)

Total Democratic Governors since 1990: 1


Republican Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Republicans have held both Senate seats continuously since the 1990s, including figures such as:

  • Roger Wicker
  • Cindy Hyde-Smith

Republican Governors Since 1990

  • Kirk Fordice (1992–2000)
  • Haley Barbour (2004–2012)
  • Phil Bryant (2012–2020)
  • Tate Reeves (2020–present)

Total Republican Governors since 1990: 4

Mississippi has been firmly Republican at the statewide executive level for most of the past three decades.


🧩 Does Politics Explain Crime in Mississippi?

Crime trends reflect:

  • Economic inequality
  • Educational access
  • Urban population concentration
  • Drug trafficking patterns
  • Gun availability
  • Long-term demographic shifts

Jackson’s crime challenges developed over decades and are influenced by structural poverty and urban decline as much as policy direction.

Mississippi’s rural regions remain statistically calmer, which keeps the statewide ranking from falling to the bottom nationally.

Geography matters.

Economics matter.

Politics plays a role — but it’s rarely the entire story.


🌒 Final Verdict: Mississippi’s Stark Divide

In Jackson, violent crime statistics remain among the highest in the nation per capita in peak years, placing it near the top of national danger rankings.

In Southaven, suburban insulation and economic stability create one of the safer environments in the state.

Mississippi overall lands in the middle tier of state safety rankings — neither America’s safest nor its most dangerous.

It’s a place where some nights are quiet enough to hear crickets.

And others echo with sirens.

Dark? Yes.

Grim? At times.

But like the blues music born here — it tells the truth, even when it hurts.

Minnesota After Dark: The City You Should Avoid & the One Where You Can Still Sleep

❄️ Minnesota After Dark: The Most Dangerous City Over 50,000 vs. The Safest — Crime Rankings, Cold Statistics & Political Power Since 1990

Minnesota has a reputation.

Polite neighbors. Frozen lakes. Clean suburbs. A place where people apologize when you bump into them. It’s the land of “Minnesota Nice.”

But crime statistics don’t care about manners.

Behind the snowbanks and Scandinavian stoicism lies a state with sharp contrasts — neighborhoods where sirens slice through winter silence, and others where the biggest disturbance is a snowblower at 6 a.m.

Today we’re diving into:

  • The most dangerous city in Minnesota with over 50,000 residents
  • The safest city in Minnesota with over 50,000 residents
  • Where each ranks nationally
  • Where Minnesota lands among the safest states
  • And how political leadership has shifted since 1990

Because under the ice, things move.


Minneapolis is the Most Dangerous City in Minnesota

Minneapolis is Minnesota’s largest city and economic center. It’s home to Fortune 500 companies, a vibrant arts scene, and — statistically — the highest violent crime rates among the state’s larger municipalities.

To be clear: Minneapolis is not among the most violent cities in America. But within Minnesota’s generally safe framework, it carries the heaviest crime burden.

📊 Minneapolis Crime Snapshot (Recent FBI & State Data Averages)

  • Violent crime rate: ~1,000–1,200 per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: ~4,000–4,500 per 100,000 residents
  • National violent crime average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Minneapolis’ violent crime rate is roughly 2.5 to 3 times the national average.

That’s a serious shift for a city once considered one of the safest large metros in the Midwest.


🧨 Why Has Minneapolis Seen Elevated Crime?

  1. Post-2020 Crime Spike
    Like many major U.S. cities, Minneapolis experienced a surge in violent crime during and after 2020.
  2. Policing & Staffing Changes
    Officer shortages and policy shifts impacted response times and enforcement capacity.
  3. Gun Violence Trends
    Firearm-related incidents account for much of the violent crime increase.
  4. Property Crime Surge
    Auto thefts and catalytic converter theft became particularly widespread.
  5. Urban Density & Economic Gaps
    Crime remains concentrated in specific neighborhoods.

Dark humor moment? In Minneapolis winters, your car might not start because it’s frozen solid — or because someone already drove off with it.

The reality is more complicated than headlines. Many neighborhoods remain stable and safe. But statistically, Minneapolis leads Minnesota in violent crime among cities over 50,000 residents.


🏆 National Ranking

Minneapolis does not typically rank in the Top 50 most dangerous cities nationwide.

However, it often falls within the Top 60–80 range for violent crime rates among similarly sized U.S. cities.

So nationally, it’s mid-tier.

Within Minnesota? It stands out sharply.


Plymouth is the Safest City in Minnesota

Now let’s head west of Minneapolis into suburbia.

Plymouth is the statistical opposite of chaos. Wide residential streets. Corporate campuses. Family-focused planning. The kind of place where crime alerts feel rare and mildly shocking.

📊 Plymouth Crime Snapshot

  • Violent crime rate: ~80–120 per 100,000 residents
  • Property crime rate: ~1,200–1,500 per 100,000 residents
  • Overall violent crime: Far below state and national averages

Compared to Minneapolis, Plymouth’s violent crime rate is roughly 8 to 12 times lower.

That’s not a small difference.

That’s a different reality.


🛡 Why Is Plymouth So Safe?

  1. High Median Household Income
  2. Low Poverty Levels
  3. Suburban Planning & Zoning
  4. Strong School Systems
  5. Community-Oriented Policing
  6. Lower Density Hotspots

Plymouth benefits from economic stability and intentional development. Crime exists — no city is immune — but violent incidents are statistically rare.

If Minneapolis feels like a city navigating turbulence, Plymouth feels like it already landed and parked in the heated garage.


🏆 National Safety Ranking

Among U.S. cities over 50,000 residents, Plymouth often ranks:

#10 to #25 in the Top 50 Safest Cities in America

It consistently performs well in violent crime metrics and maintains relatively low property crime compared to other suburban cities nationwide.


🗺 Where Does Minnesota Rank Among the Safest States?

Zooming out statewide:

  • Minnesota violent crime rate: ~300–320 per 100,000 residents
  • National average: ~380–400 per 100,000

Minnesota generally ranks:

#8 to #15 among the Top 50 Safest States

Despite elevated crime in Minneapolis and parts of St. Paul, Minnesota remains statistically safer than most states overall.

Rural regions and suburban communities significantly lower the statewide average.

Minnesota isn’t crime-free.

But it’s far from America’s danger zone.


🏛 Minnesota’s Political Landscape Since 1990

Minnesota has long leaned Democratic in federal elections, though it maintains a competitive state-level political environment.


Democratic Representation Since 1990

U.S. Senate

Notable Democratic senators include:

  • Amy Klobuchar (2007–present)
  • Al Franken (2009–2018)
  • Paul Wellstone (until 2002)

Democrats have controlled both Senate seats for most of the past two decades.


Democratic Governors Since 1990

  • Mark Dayton (2011–2019)
  • Tim Walz (2019–present)

Total Democratic Governors since 1990: 2


Republican Representation Since 1990

Republican Governors Since 1990

  • Arne Carlson (1991–1999)
  • Tim Pawlenty (2003–2011)

Total Republican Governors since 1990: 2

Minnesota has seen a relatively balanced rotation of governors between parties since 1990.


🧩 Does Politics Explain Crime in Minnesota?

Crime trends are shaped by:

  • Urban density
  • Economic inequality
  • Policing policies
  • Gun availability
  • Social unrest cycles
  • Drug trafficking patterns

Political leadership influences policy direction, but crime spikes often correlate more with national trends and socioeconomic shifts than party control alone.

Minnesota’s statewide safety ranking remains strong despite urban crime fluctuations.


🌒 Final Verdict: Minnesota’s Cold Contrast

In Minneapolis, violent crime has surged above historical norms, giving the city the highest rates among large Minnesota municipalities.

In Plymouth, stability and suburban insulation create one of the safest environments in the state — and one of the safer cities nationally.

Minnesota overall ranks in the upper tier of safest states. But like ice on a lake, conditions can look solid from a distance while shifting underneath.

The difference between sirens and snow silence?

Sometimes just a few exits on the interstate.

Dark? Maybe.

But in Minnesota, even the shadows are usually polite about it.

Connecticut After Dark: The Sinister Secrets of the Constitution State’s Most Dangerous City—and the One Place Where the Locks Still Hold

Connecticut likes to present itself as buttoned-up, well-educated, and politely prosperous. It is the land of colonial steeples, hedge funds, immaculate fall foliage, and a history that smells faintly of old parchment and inherited wealth. But like any place with deep roots and older money, there are shadows here—long, cold, and stretching across brick alleyways and abandoned factory floors. Beneath the polished image of the Constitution State lies a tale of two cities: one wrestling with crime rates that have stained its reputation for decades, and another that stands as a statistical island of relative calm in a region not immune to unrest.

When we examine crime data, population thresholds, and long-term public safety trends, two cities consistently emerge in stark contrast: Bridgeport, often labeled the most dangerous major city in Connecticut, and Stamford, frequently recognized as the safest Connecticut city with a population exceeding 100,000 residents.

Let’s walk through both—slowly. Keep your wits about you.


Bridgeport: Where the Streetlights Flicker a Little Longer

Bridgeport has long carried a reputation that makes suburban parents double-check their car locks. As Connecticut’s largest city by population, Bridgeport has historically struggled with higher rates of violent crime compared to the state average.

For decades, the city has grappled with issues that feel almost cinematic in their bleakness: concentrated poverty, underfunded neighborhoods, drug-related activity, and sporadic surges in violent crime. While crime rates fluctuate year to year—and recent efforts have shown signs of improvement—Bridgeport still posts violent crime rates significantly above Connecticut’s statewide average.

We’re talking aggravated assaults that make the evening news, robberies that turn convenience stores into crime scenes, and gun violence that has, at times, punctured the relative calm of Fairfield County. Property crimes—burglary, theft, and car break-ins—have also historically run higher here than in neighboring communities.

Bridgeport’s industrial past looms like a ghost. Once a booming manufacturing hub, the city suffered severe economic decline in the late 20th century. Factories shuttered. Jobs vanished. Entire blocks were left to weather the elements and whatever else wandered through. Economic hardship doesn’t excuse crime—but it often explains the environment in which it festers.

There’s a certain dark irony in Bridgeport’s location. It sits in wealthy Fairfield County, home to some of the most affluent towns in America. You can drive fifteen minutes and find yourself in manicured neighborhoods where lawns are trimmed with surgical precision and security systems cost more than some cars. In Bridgeport, however, the economic contrast is hard to ignore. The divide feels less like a line and more like a cliff.

That said, labeling any city as “the most dangerous” requires nuance. Bridgeport is not a lawless wasteland. It has vibrant neighborhoods, community organizations, waterfront parks, and residents who love their city fiercely. Crime does not define every block. But statistically speaking—among Connecticut’s larger cities—it has consistently ranked at or near the top for violent crime rates.

In other words: if Connecticut has a darker corner, Bridgeport has often worn that shadow like a reluctant crown.


Stamford: Where the Alarms Rarely Sound

Now, travel west along the shoreline and you’ll arrive in Stamford, a city that seems determined to prove that urban life does not have to come with a nightly police siren soundtrack.

With a population comfortably above 100,000, Stamford qualifies for our “large city” threshold. Yet its crime rates—particularly violent crime—tend to land well below the national average and often below the averages of similarly sized cities across the country.

Stamford is something of a corporate fortress. Major financial firms, corporate headquarters, and a steady influx of professionals commuting to New York City have transformed it into a polished urban center. Glass office towers reflect Long Island Sound like they’re trying to outshine Manhattan itself.

But it’s not just the skyline that separates Stamford from Bridgeport—it’s the numbers. Violent crime rates in Stamford are typically a fraction of those seen in higher-crime urban areas nationwide. While no city is immune to crime, Stamford residents are statistically less likely to be victims of violent offenses compared to residents in many other cities of comparable size.

Property crime exists—of course it does. Somewhere, at some point, someone forgets to lock their car. But overall, Stamford’s crime trends have painted a picture of relative stability. Strong local governance, higher median incomes, and well-funded public services all contribute to the city’s safer profile.

There’s a quiet, almost eerie contrast here. In Bridgeport, abandoned factories whisper stories of economic collapse. In Stamford, high-rise apartments hum with six-figure salaries and rooftop cocktail hours. One city fights uphill battles against systemic challenges; the other leverages wealth and development as a shield.


The Frightening Truth About “Safety”

Here’s where the dark comedy creeps in: Connecticut as a whole consistently ranks among the safer states in America. Even its “most dangerous” city would not top the charts nationally in many categories. Perspective matters.

But crime statistics are not just numbers—they represent real lives disrupted. The difference between being statistically safer and actually feeling safe can be razor thin. A single high-profile shooting can shake a community. A string of burglaries can change how residents see their neighborhood.

It’s also important to acknowledge that crime trends are dynamic. Bridgeport has made strides in community policing and violence reduction initiatives. Stamford, like any growing city, must remain vigilant as populations increase and economic pressures shift.

The designation of “most dangerous” or “safest” is not a moral judgment. It is a snapshot in time, based on available data, population thresholds, and reported crime rates. Cities evolve. Neighborhoods transform. And sometimes the scariest thing isn’t the crime itself—but the inequality that breeds it.


Two Cities, One State, Very Different Nights

Picture this:

In Bridgeport, a patrol car cruises slowly past a row of aging buildings, blue lights reflecting off cracked pavement. Somewhere in the distance, a train roars by, momentarily drowning out the sound of sirens.

In Stamford, a couple leaves a waterfront restaurant, debating dessert options as office towers glow softly behind them. The biggest concern of the evening might be whether they can find parking close to their condo.

Both scenes are real. Both belong to Connecticut.

And that’s the unsettling beauty of it all.

Connecticut is neither a horror story nor a utopia. It is a study in contrast. It holds colonial charm and urban grit in the same small geographic package. Bridgeport’s struggles highlight how economic disparity and historical decline can shape public safety challenges. Stamford’s relative calm underscores how investment, opportunity, and infrastructure can influence crime trends.

If you’re looking purely at the data—Bridgeport has often ranked as the most dangerous major city in Connecticut, while Stamford stands as one of the safest large cities in the state.

But if you’re looking at the human side of the story, the conclusion is darker—and more complicated.

Safety isn’t just about crime rates. It’s about resources. Opportunity. Community cohesion. Lighting on the streets. Jobs that pay enough. Schools that function. And hope that doesn’t evaporate after sunset.

Connecticut’s scariest reality isn’t found in a single alleyway or police report.

It’s found in the gap between two cities separated by just a short drive—and worlds apart when the sun goes down.