Thinking of starting a new chapter of life in the sunshine state? Safety should be a top concern when considering any move, and unfortunately, Florida has some areas with a history of high crime rates.
Dangerous Neighborhoods
In this article, we will delve into five cities notorious for their elevated violence, urging you to be cautious when relocating to these locations. In published news of South West Journal, these are the top five most dangerous cities in Florida;
- Lake City: Nestled in Florida, Lake City holds the rather undesirable distinction of being the state’s most dangerous city. With a population of approximately 12,329, this seemingly quaint city has a shockingly violent crime rate of 15.74 per 1,000 residents, nearly quadrupling the state average. Property crime is also a concern, at 54.42 per 1,000 residents. Moreover, the city struggles with a poverty rate of 22.2% and an unemployment rate of 7.7%, adding to its safety concerns.
- Riviera Beach: Situated on the outskirts of the Miami metropolitan area, Riviera Beach is home to about 37,604 residents. Despite its relatively small size, this city has garnered attention for its high violent crime rate of 11.41 per 1,000 inhabitants, including a murder rate seven times the national average. While Singer Island is considered a safer area within Riviera Beach, other parts of the city contribute to its reputation as one of Florida’s worst crime hotspots. It’s worth noting that neighboring North Palm Beach offers a much safer environment.
- Cocoa: A city of around 19,041 residents, Cocoa is another Florida location grappling with significantly high violent crime rates. With a violent crime rate of 11.24 per 1,000 residents, Cocoa surpasses the state average by 2.8 times and triples the national average. Burglaries and assaults are the primary types of violent crime plaguing the city. Nestled on the Space Coast near Cape Canaveral, Cocoa may not be ideal for those seeking a secure and tranquil living environment.
- Lake Worth: Close to Riviera Beach, Lake Worth is another city in Florida with a substantial violent crime rate. At 9.26 per 1,000 residents, the violent crime rate in Lake Worth exceeds the state and national averages by over 2.5 times. While crime rates have improved in recent years, caution is still advised, especially in the northern districts, which are considered more hazardous.
- Panama City: Known for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine waters, and rich wildlife, Panama City is a popular beach destination in Florida. However, this scenic charm has a downside – it is also one of the state’s most violent cities. The city faces high crime rates, including murders, armed robberies, and kidnappings, particularly in areas like Curundú, El Chorrillo, and San Miguelito. While housing may be affordable in Panama City, safety concerns must be weighed when contemplating a move.
While these five cities may have their unique attractions and positive aspects, the prevalence of high crime rates makes them less attractive to those prioritizing safety in their living environment. It is crucial to exercise due diligence and thoroughly research potential relocation destinations, considering crime rates, poverty levels, and unemployment rates. Florida offers many other cities and towns with lower crime rates and a higher quality of life, so explore your options carefully before making a decision. For further information, visit this site.