Philips ConnorThe most dangerous cities in Ireland are usually the busiest, rowdiest, and most vibrant. Ireland is dangerous in a different sense; while violent crime is rare, pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur in busy tourist areas.
Alcohol-Related Incidents are another worry; Ireland’s vibrant nightlife can sometimes lead to altercations or accidents, particularly in crowded pubs where bar fights can get out of hand.
Overall, Ireland is a safe destination with a low crime rate, but staying aware and taking precautions can help ensure a trouble-free visit. These are the places to stay sharp when visiting.
Most Dangerous Cities In Ireland
1. Dublin
Dublin, Ireland’s capital, has the highest crime rate in the country. The North Inner City, Ballymun, Finglas, Tallaght, and Clondalkin are known for drug-related crime, theft, and violent incidents. The city has seen a surge in organized crime, gang activity, and drug trafficking, leading to turf wars and shootings.
Public disorder is also a concern, particularly in areas serviced by public transportation. The Luas red line has frequent reports of physical altercations and open drug dealing. Law enforcement faces challenges due to staffing shortages, impacting crime prevention efforts. Despite these issues, Dublin remains a vibrant cultural hub.
2. Cork
Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city, has seen an increase in property crimes, assaults, and drug-related offenses. Areas like Knocknaheeny and Mayfield experience higher crime rates, particularly burglary and vehicle theft. Drug-related issues have contributed to gang activity, leading to occasional violent incidents. While Cork remains a vibrant cultural hub, certain neighborhoods require extra caution, especially at night.
The city’s crime index is 36.19, indicating moderate crime levels. Residents report concerns about theft and vandalism, though violent crime remains relatively low compared to Dublin. Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but some areas still struggle.
3. Limerick
Limerick has historically been associated with gang-related violence, earning the nickname “Stab City.” While crime rates have improved, areas like Moyross and Southill still experience higher crime levels. The city has been the site of feuding criminal gangs, leading to shootings and violent assaults. Theft and drug-related offenses remain concerns, with 2,768 theft-related crimes reported in 2021.
Public order offenses and property crimes also contribute to Limerick’s crime statistics. Despite these challenges, the city has made strides in improving safety, with increased police presence and community initiatives aimed at reducing crime.
4. Waterford
Waterford has a higher-than-average crime rate, particularly in theft and anti-social behavior. The city accounts for over 65% of county-wide crime, with burglary and drug-related offenses being major concerns. While overall crime rates fell by 7.93% in 2024, certain areas still experience frequent burglaries and drug-related crimes.
Violent crime is less prevalent, but public disorder incidents remain an issue. Law enforcement continues efforts to improve safety, but residents remain cautious, particularly in areas with higher crime rates. Despite these concerns, Waterford remains an important cultural and economic center in Ireland.
5. Galway
Galway, known for its vibrant tourism industry, has seen rising crime rates, particularly in theft and drug-related incidents. Areas like Westside and Ballybane report higher crime levels. In 2023, 8,663 incidents were reported to Gardaí, marking an increase from previous years. Assaults and drug-related crimes have surged, with drug detections increasing by 85%.
Property crimes, such as burglaries, have declined, but concerns about anti-social behavior and street crime persist. Despite these issues, Galway remains a lively city with strong community engagement efforts aimed at improving safety.
6. Drogheda
Drogheda has been plagued by gang-related violence and drug trafficking, leading to violent clashes and shootings. The city ranks second in Ireland for crime, with drug-related offenses being a major concern. Property crimes, including theft and burglary, contribute to residents’ unease.
While violent crime is not as frequent, the presence of organized crime groups has led to public safety concerns. Law enforcement continues efforts to combat drug-related activities, but certain areas remain hotspots for criminal activity. Despite these challenges, Drogheda remains an important historical and economic hub.
7. Bray
Bray has been identified as one of the worst parts of Ireland; it has experienced anti-social behavior and property crimes, particularly in certain neighborhoods. The city has seen incidents of gun violence, assaults, and drug-related offenses, leading to concerns about public safety. While Bray remains a popular seaside town, certain areas require extra caution, especially at night.
Law enforcement has increased patrols to address crime concerns, but residents still report issues with theft and vandalism. Despite these challenges, Bray continues to attract visitors and remains an important cultural destination.
8. Navan
Navan has seen a 33% increase in crime, with robbery, theft, and drug-related offenses rising significantly. The city’s crime rate has reached record levels, prompting concerns from local officials. Property crimes, including damage to property and burglary, have surged, leading to calls for increased law enforcement presence.
Drug-related issues have also contributed to rising crime rates, with residents expressing concerns about safety. Despite these challenges, Navan remains an important commercial and residential center in Ireland.
9. Dundalk
Dundalk has experienced a significant increase in crime, particularly in theft, burglary, and assaults. The city has seen a rise in public order offenses, with incidents nearly doubling in recent years. Drug-related crimes remain a concern, with reports of heroin-related violence. Law enforcement has increased patrols to address crime concerns, but certain areas still struggle with safety issues. Despite these challenges, Dundalk remains an important economic and cultural hub.
10. Athlone
Athlone saw its highest level of crime in 15 years, with 2,011 offenses recorded in 2023. Property crimes, burglary, and crimes against persons have increased, leading to concerns about public safety. Drug-related offenses remain a significant issue, with reports of drug possession and supply contributing to crime rates. Despite these challenges, Athlone remains a key commercial and residential center in Ireland.
11. Swords
Swords has seen rising crime rates, particularly in theft and burglary. The city has experienced incidents of knife crime and violent offenses, leading to concerns about public safety. Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but certain areas remain hotspots for criminal activity. Despite these challenges, Swords remains an important residential and commercial hub.
12. Tralee
Tralee has a moderate crime rate, with concerns about property crimes, drug-related issues, and public disorder. Crime has increased by 16% over the past 20 years, with a 10% rise from 2022 to 2023. While violent crime is relatively low, theft and vandalism remain concerns. Drug-related offenses have been reported, though they are not overwhelmingly prevalent.
Residents feel safe during daylight hours, but concerns about nighttime safety persist. Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but certain areas still experience higher crime levels. Despite these challenges, Tralee remains an important cultural and economic hub in Ireland.
13. Ennis
Ennis has a higher-than-average crime rate, particularly in theft and burglary. Drug-related issues have also contributed to the city’s crime levels, making this one of the most dangerous cities in Ireland. The crime rate in Ennis is 8% lower than the national average, but property crimes remain a concern.
Violent crimes such as assault and robbery occur, though they are not as frequent as property crimes. Law enforcement has increased patrols to address crime concerns, but certain areas still struggle with safety issues. Despite these challenges, Ennis remains an important economic and cultural hub in Ireland.
14. Kilkenny
Kilkenny has seen a rise in crime, with 10 out of 17 Garda stations reporting increased crime rates. The city recorded 2,896 crimes in 2023, with theft, public order offenses, and criminal damage being the most common. Drug-related offenses have also increased, contributing to safety concerns. While violent crime is relatively low, property crimes such as burglary and theft remain significant issues.
Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but certain areas still experience higher crime levels. Despite these challenges, Kilkenny remains an important cultural and historical center in Ireland.
15. Carlow
Carlow has a high crime rate, with concerns about property crimes, drug-related issues, and violent offenses. Crime has been increasing over the past five years, with residents expressing concerns about home burglaries, theft, and vandalism.
Drug-related problems are particularly high, contributing to public safety concerns. Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but certain areas still experience higher crime levels. Despite these challenges, Carlow remains an important economic and cultural hub in Ireland.
16. Wexford
Wexford has seen a sharp increase in crime, particularly in theft and public order offenses. Crime levels in New Ross rose by 35% between 2019 and 2024, while Wexford and Gorey saw increases of over 20%.
Drug-related issues remain a concern, with reports of violent assaults and organized crime activity. Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but certain areas still experience higher crime levels. Despite these challenges, Wexford remains an important cultural and economic hub in Ireland.
17. Letterkenny
Letterkenny has a moderate crime rate, with concerns about property crimes, drug-related issues, and public disorder. Crime has been increasing over the past five years, with residents expressing concerns about home burglaries, theft, and vandalism.
Drug-related problems are particularly high, contributing to public safety concerns. Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but certain areas still experience higher crime levels. Despite these challenges, Letterkenny remains an important economic and cultural hub in Ireland.
18. Newbridge
Newbridge has seen a rise in crime, with concerns about violent offenses, theft, and drug-related issues. The city has experienced high crime levels, prompting calls for increased law enforcement presence. Property crimes such as burglary and vehicle theft remain significant issues.
Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but certain areas still experience higher crime levels. Despite these challenges, Newbridge remains an important residential and commercial hub in Ireland.
19. Clonmel
Clonmel has a high crime rate, with concerns about property crimes, drug-related issues, and violent offenses. Crime has been increasing over the past five years, with residents expressing concerns about home burglaries, theft, and vandalism.
Drug-related problems are particularly high, contributing to public safety concerns. Law enforcement continues efforts to curb crime, but certain areas still experience higher crime levels. Despite these challenges, Clonmel remains an important economic and cultural hub in Ireland.
20. Portlaoise
Portlaoise has seen increasing concerns over crime, particularly property-related offenses and drug activity. Residents report feeling unsafe at night, with burglaries and car thefts being common.
Drug-related crimes have also been flagged as a growing issue, affecting the overall sense of security. Additionally, road safety has become a pressing concern, with multiple tragic accidents prompting calls for better traffic control.
Poor lighting in certain areas exacerbates the risks, making nighttime travel more hazardous. While efforts are being made to improve safety, vigilance remains necessary for residents and visitors alike.
21. Castlebar
Castlebar has a moderate crime rate, but drug-related offenses and dangerous driving incidents have raised alarms. A recent case involved a reckless driver causing life-altering injuries to a retired GP. Speeding and impaired driving remain significant risks, particularly on the N5 dual carriageway, where breakdown assistance personnel have had near-fatal encounters due to the lack of safe pull-in areas.
Additionally, road safety concerns at the Windy Gap have led to calls for urgent intervention. While Castlebar is generally safe, these hazards highlight the need for caution when navigating the town.
22. Ballina
Ballina has a relatively high crime rate, with theft, assault, and drug-related offenses being prevalent. Property crimes, including home break-ins and thefts, have led to increased anxiety among residents. Drug-related crime is perceived as a major problem, significantly impacting the community’s sense of safety.
Violent crimes, while moderate, still contribute to concerns about personal security, particularly at night. The perception of safety decreases sharply after dark, with many residents expressing fears about walking alone. Addressing these issues is crucial to improving public confidence and security in Ballina.
23. Mullingar
Mullingar has moderate crime levels, but recent anti-migrant protests have led to reports of intimidation and unrest. Additionally, concerns over drug use and violent crimes persist. A recent violent attack in the town has raised further safety concerns.
While Mullingar is generally considered safe during daylight hours, nighttime safety is rated as moderate, with residents advised to exercise caution when walking alone. Petty crimes such as vandalism and theft remain issues, though they are not as severe as in larger cities. Continued community engagement and law enforcement efforts are essential to maintaining safety.
24. Tullamore
Tullamore has been the site of violent incidents, including a recent shooting that left two men seriously injured. While not among Ireland’s most dangerous cities, crime rates and public disturbances have been increasing. Drug-related issues are a noticeable concern, with public perception indicating a need for continued monitoring and proactive measures.
Additionally, confusion over “courtesy crossings” has led to safety concerns, as pedestrians are unsure whether vehicles will stop. Road safety issues, particularly along the grand canal greenway, have also been flagged, with calls for clearer signage to protect pedestrians and cyclists.
25. Arklow
Historically, Arklow was home to a major munitions factory, which contributed to industrial hazards. While modern-day Arklow is relatively safe, certain areas have seen crime and safety concerns, particularly related to road safety and theft. Property crimes, including home burglaries and theft, remain a major issue, leading to heightened public concern.
Drug-related problems are a growing worry, significantly affecting the town’s sense of security. Residents report feeling unsafe, particularly at night, which underscores the need for increased safety measures to rebuild community trust and confidence.
Summary
The most dangerous places in Ireland mostly suffer from house break-ins, car thefts, and bag snatchings. However, the real danger occurs at the pubs, or in deserted spots, especially at night. It seems that by just staying away from the pubs, and from deserted places at night, visiting these places without incidence is possible.