This article was written with partially assisted AI
Buffalo, New York:
With a population of 276,807 in 2021, Buffalo is one of the largest cities in western New York. Unfortunately, it's also known for its high crime rates. The violent crime rate in Buffalo stands at 8.65 per 1,000 residents, significantly surpassing the state average. Property crime is another concern, with a rate of 28.02 per 1,000 residents, more than double the state average.
Buffalo's riskier areas include Emerson, Babcock, and Black Rock. Travelers are advised to exercise caution when venturing into unfamiliar or dilapidated areas, especially after dark, and preferably not alone.
Binghamton, New York:
Located on the southern border of New York, Binghamton is a smaller city with a population of 47,566. Despite its size, Binghamton's crime statistics are above state and national averages. The violent crime rate is 7.25 per 1,000 residents, and the property crime rate is 31.16 per 1,000 residents. Travelers should be extra cautious when navigating unfamiliar or deteriorating areas, and it's advisable not to travel alone.
Niagara Falls, New York:
Niagara Falls is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty but has crime rates exceeding state and national averages. With a population of 48,360, the city reports a violent crime rate of 7.57 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 28.29 per 1,000 residents. The downtown area tends to be more crime-prone, so visitors should stay vigilant when exploring this popular tourist destination.
Albany, New York:
As the capital of New York, with a population of 98,617, Albany's crime rates surpass national and state averages. Residents face a 1 in 39 chance of becoming a victim of property crime. While crime rates have declined in the region, it's essential to remain cautious, especially in less secure areas.
Syracuse, New York:
Syracuse, with a population of 146,103, is located in northern upstate New York. The city has recently experienced an increase in various types of crime, with crime rates more than twice the state and national averages in 2022. Crime per square mile in Syracuse is approximately five times higher than the state and national averages.
Rochester, New York:
Rochester, often called "Flower City," boasts a population of 210,606. However, it also has crime rates over twice the state and national averages for violent and property crimes. To stay safe, avoiding certain neighborhoods within the city limits is advisable, including Marketview Heights, JOSANA, Dutchtown, Bulls Head, and Mayer Heights.
Schenectady, New York:
Schenectady, a small to medium-sized city with a population of 66,990, reports violent and property crime rates exceeding New York's and national medians. The small population and high property crime rates mean residents have a 1 in 39 chance of becoming property crime victims.
Johnson City Village, New York:
Johnson City Village, with a population of 15,203, faces particularly high property crime rates—about 3.5 times the state average. With 156 crimes per square mile, the rate per square mile is more than four times the state average.
Watertown, New York:
Watertown, one of the smallest cities on our list with a population of 24,575, experiences crime rates, especially property crime, nearly three times the state average and twice the national median. Visitors should exercise caution, especially in and around the city center.
Utica, New York:
Utica, located in central upstate New York with a population of 64,501, has seen increased property and violent crime rates, surpassing state levels. Currently, residents have a 1 in 31 chance of becoming a victim of property crime.
In these challenging cities, residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant, be aware of their surroundings, and take precautions to stay safe in their daily lives.
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