Philips ConnorThe most dangerous cities in Indiana include Indianapolis, South Bend, and Terre Haute, where there is quite a lot of violent crime. The irony is that despite these troubled spots, the rest of the state is relatively calm.
Nevertheless, statistics show that it is still a good idea to keep your guard up; property crimes, petty thefts, and robberies can occur in some places. This information will also be useful for those thinking about settling down, and putting down roots in this state.
The types of crime prevalent in one place may be different in another, but precautions are generally effective.
Most Dangerous Cities In Indiana
1. South Bend
South Bend has one of the highest crime rates in Indiana, with violent crime occurring at nearly five times the state average. Gang activity, drug-related offenses, and economic struggles contribute to its high crime levels. Property crimes, including burglary and vehicle theft, are also prevalent. The city has a violent crime rate of 14.75 per 1,000 residents, significantly higher than the national median.
2. Terre Haute
With a crime rate of 49 per 1,000 residents, Terre Haute experiences frequent violent crimes such as assault and robbery. Property crimes, including motor vehicle theft, are also a major concern. The city ranks among the most dangerous places in Indiana, with a 1 in 20 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
3. Evansville
Evansville has a violent crime rate 94% higher than the national average. Assaults, robberies, and homicides are common, and property crimes such as burglary and vehicle theft are widespread. The city has one of the highest crime rates in Indiana, with one in 21 residents likely to experience crime.
4. Indianapolis
The largest city in Indiana, Indianapolis has a violent crime rate 178% higher than the national average. This is one of the most dangerous cities in Indiana, with gun violence, gang activity, and drug-related crimes contributing to its high crime rate. The city recorded over 9,000 violent crimes in 2024, including 208 homicides.
5. Hammond
Hammond has a violent crime rate significantly above the state average. Property crimes, including burglary and vehicle theft, are also major concerns. The city has a crime rate of 40 per 1,000 residents, making it one of the most dangerous places in Indiana.
6. Elkhart
With a violent crime rate 188% higher than the national average, Elkhart struggles with assaults, robberies, and homicides. Property crimes, including theft and burglary, are also common. The city ranks among the bottom 10% of U.S. cities for safety, with one in 23 residents likely to experience crime.
7. Michigan City
This city has a crime rate 77% higher than the national average. Violent crimes such as armed robbery and aggravated assault are frequent, and property crimes like burglary and vehicle theft are widespread. The city has a violent crime rate of 4 per 1,000 residents, making it one of the most dangerous places in Indiana.
8. Gary
Once a thriving industrial city, Gary has struggled with economic decline, gang violence, and drug-related crimes. It has a violent crime rate 30% higher than the national average, with homicides and assaults being major concerns. The city was once ranked as the most dangerous place in the U.S., with 129 murders in 1995
9. New Albany
This city has a violent crime rate above the national average, with robberies and assaults being common. Property crimes, including vehicle theft, are also a significant issue. The city has a crime rate of 34 per 1,000 residents, making it one of the most dangerous places in Indiana.
10. Anderson
Anderson has a violent crime rate 31% higher than the national average. Assaults, robberies, and property crimes such as burglary and vehicle theft contribute to its high crime rate. The city has a crime rate of 34 per 1,000 residents, ranking among the most dangerous places in Indiana.
11. Lafayette
Lafayette has a crime rate 19.7% higher than the national average. Violent crimes such as assault and robbery are frequent, and property crimes like burglary and vehicle theft are widespread. The city has a 1 in 38 chance of becoming a victim of crime. Economic challenges and drug-related offenses contribute to the high crime rate.
12. Kokomo
Kokomo has a violent crime rate significantly above the state average. The city struggles with assaults, robberies, and property crimes, including motor vehicle theft and burglary. The chance of becoming a victim of crime in Kokomo is 1 in 45. Certain neighborhoods experience higher crime rates due to economic disparities.
13. Muncie
Muncie has a crime rate 38% higher than the national average; making it one of the most dangerous places in Indiana. Violent crimes such as robbery and assault are common, and property crimes like burglary and vehicle theft are widespread. The city has a 1 in 31 chance of becoming a victim of crime. Economic struggles and drug-related issues contribute to the high crime rate.
14. Bloomington
Bloomington has a crime rate 22.5% higher than the national average. Violent crimes such as armed robbery and aggravated assault are frequent, and property crimes like burglary and vehicle theft are widespread. The city has a 1 in 29 chance of becoming a victim of crime. The transient population, including university students, contributes to fluctuating crime rates.
15. Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne has a crime rate 14% higher than the national average. Violent crimes such as gun violence and aggravated assault are significant concerns, and property crimes like burglary and vehicle theft are prevalent. The city has a 1 in 38 chance of becoming a victim of crime. Certain areas experience higher crime rates due to gang activity and economic challenges.
Summary
The most dangerous places in Indiana generally see a lot of property crimes, and other petty crimes that do not pose direct harm to the person. The exception being Terre Haute, South Bend, and Indianapolis where there are a number of assaults reported.
Nevertheless, with proper caution, it is possible to stay in these places without any incidences.