Philips ConnorThe most dangerous cities in Kansas, present a stark contrast to a state known for its vast plains and friendly communities. While many areas in the Sunflower State offer safety and tranquility, some cities struggle with elevated levels of violent and property crimes.
This article explores the most dangerous cities in Kansas, examining crime statistics, contributing factors, and what residents and visitors should be aware of when navigating these areas.
Most Dangerous Cities In Kansas
1. Wichita
Wichita is Kansas’s largest city and also its most dangerous. With a violent crime rate exceeding 1,100 per 100,000 residents, the city sees frequent assaults, robberies, and homicides. Gang activity, drug trafficking, and economic disparities contribute to high crime, especially in areas like Planeview and parts of north Wichita.
Property crime is rampant, with car thefts and burglaries widespread. Law enforcement works to counter violence, but repeat offenders and limited community resources hinder progress. Despite its cultural assets, including museums and historic districts, safety concerns persist, making it a city where caution is crucial, particularly after dark.
2. Topeka
Topeka, the capital of Kansas, struggles with a violent crime rate near 1,000 per 100,000 residents—one of the highest in the state. The city faces issues such as gang violence, drug abuse, and domestic violence. Murders are notably high, with a murder rate above 20 per 100,000. Areas such as East Topeka are known for high crime concentrations.
Socioeconomic challenges, including poverty and unemployment, exacerbate the danger. While Topeka offers rich historical landmarks and government institutions, safety concerns significantly impact quality of life, particularly in certain neighborhoods where shootings and assaults are common.
3. Junction City
Junction City, located near Fort Riley, ranks high on Kansas’s danger index with a violent crime rate of around 739 per 100,000 residents. The city’s transient military population contributes to fluctuating crime dynamics. Issues like domestic violence, assaults, and theft are prevalent. Certain neighborhoods experience elevated criminal activity, often linked to substance abuse and economic struggles.
Though community initiatives are in place, repeat offenses and limited mental health support strain law enforcement. While the city has a strong military and historical presence, its rising crime makes it a place where residents and visitors must remain vigilant, especially at night.
4. Newton
Newton, a small city in south-central Kansas, reports a violent crime rate of 716 per 100,000 residents. Though small, it struggles with disproportionately high levels of sexual assault—its rape rate is one of the highest in the state. Domestic violence and aggravated assault are frequent issues. Economic instability and substance abuse contribute to the city’s safety concerns.
While Newton has a strong Mennonite heritage and cultural charm, certain neighborhoods are plagued by repeat criminal behavior and under-resourced policing. The elevated risk of violent crime makes it important for residents to remain cautious, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.
5. Leavenworth
Leavenworth, best known for its federal prison, faces a violent crime rate nearing 690 per 100,000. The city experiences high rates of assault, burglary, and theft, partly fueled by poverty and drug-related crime. The area around downtown and North 2nd Street is often cited for higher criminal activity. Despite its historical significance and military presence with Fort Leavenworth, the city struggles with community safety.
Property crimes also contribute to its reputation, including frequent car thefts and break-ins. Limited police staffing and slow emergency response times in some neighborhoods further challenge efforts to improve public safety.
6. Arkansas City
Arkansas City, near the Oklahoma border, is one of the most dangerous cities in Kansas; it faces persistent crime issues, with a violent crime rate of about 588 per 100,000. While the population is small, it struggles with high rates of domestic violence, aggravated assault, and theft. Drug-related crime, especially involving methamphetamine, remains a significant problem.
Socioeconomic struggles such as poverty and low access to mental health services exacerbate crime. Though the town has a strong agricultural base and historic sites, the safety concerns detract from its small-town charm. Nighttime activity in certain neighborhoods carries added risks, and police have limited resources to fully address ongoing criminal behavior.
7. Garden City
Garden City, a hub in western Kansas, has a violent crime rate exceeding 580 per 100,000 and a particularly high rape rate of 113 per 100,000. Crime here is often linked to gang activity and economic inequality among the city’s diverse population. Property crime is also an issue, with car thefts and burglaries occurring frequently.
While the city boasts strong agricultural and cultural ties, parts of the town are known for violence and drug trafficking. Law enforcement faces challenges in addressing repeat offenders and understaffed departments, making crime prevention efforts less effective in certain areas.
8. Merriam
Merriam, a suburban city in the Kansas City metro area, might appear safe but actually ranks among the most dangerous due to its elevated violent and property crime rates. With a violent crime rate of 569 per 100,000 and property crimes 173% higher than the national average, residents face risks of burglary, vehicle theft, and assault.
Retail theft is especially common due to the city’s commercial zones. Though the community invests in law enforcement, the dense shopping centers and proximity to major highways make it a target for opportunistic crime, reducing the overall sense of safety in residential neighborhoods.
9. Salina
Salina, located in central Kansas, experiences a violent crime rate of 529 per 100,000 residents and a high murder rate of 15.2 per 100,000—one of the highest in the state. Gang presence and drug-related crimes, especially methamphetamine distribution, fuel much of the violence. Assaults and theft are common, and certain neighborhoods face frequent police activity.
Economic decline and limited community outreach programs hinder efforts to reduce crime. Though Salina hosts numerous festivals and cultural events, its safety issues make parts of the city risky, especially at night or in areas with historically high crime rates.
10. Great Bend
Great Bend, a small city in central Kansas, has a violent crime rate of 431 per 100,000. It struggles with issues related to methamphetamine use, domestic violence, and assaults. Property crime, including car break-ins and home burglaries, is also prevalent. Law enforcement has limited resources, which impacts their ability to quickly and effectively respond to crime spikes.
The city’s economic challenges contribute to social instability and rising crime. While Great Bend offers access to natural beauty like Cheyenne Bottoms, safety concerns in residential neighborhoods cast a shadow over its community appeal.
11. Hutchinson
Hutchinson, located in Reno County, faces a violent crime rate of 415 per 100,000 residents. The city battles persistent issues with drug abuse, particularly methamphetamine, which contributes to theft, assault, and other violent crimes. Domestic disputes often escalate into violent altercations, and property crimes like home burglaries and car thefts are common. Parts of south and central Hutchinson experience frequent police activity.
While known for the Kansas State Fair and Cosmosphere, the city’s rising crime has become a concern for residents. Limited mental health services and poverty further strain community resources and law enforcement capabilities.
12. Emporia
Emporia, a college town in east-central Kansas, has a violent crime rate of nearly 400 per 100,000 residents. The city sees recurring issues with assault, theft, and drug-related offenses. College student populations can sometimes draw opportunistic crimes, especially theft and vandalism. Domestic violence and alcohol-related incidents are also notable. Certain neighborhoods report elevated calls to police, and the city lacks the law enforcement presence needed for swift response.
Though Emporia is known for its multicultural community and annual cycling events, crime remains a concern in various areas, diminishing the sense of security for both long-term residents and students.
13. Dodge City
Dodge City, historically known as a Wild West town, continues to struggle with modern-day crime. Its violent crime rate hovers around 374 per 100,000, with murders occurring at a rate of approximately 11 per 100,000. Gang activity and drug trafficking are ongoing concerns, particularly on the city’s east side. Property crimes such as vehicle theft and break-ins are also frequent.
While tourism and the meatpacking industry are central to the economy, these sectors attract a transient population, further complicating crime control. Despite its historic charm, Dodge City remains one of Kansas’s more dangerous locations, especially after dark.
14. Pittsburg
Pittsburg, located in southeastern Kansas, faces rising crime driven by poverty, drug use, and limited economic opportunities. The violent crime rate is around 348 per 100,000, and property crime is over 100% above the national average. Burglaries, car thefts, and assaults are frequent, particularly in older residential areas.
Drug-related arrests, especially for meth and opioids, are common. The city’s small police force struggles to keep up with repeat offenders. Though home to Pittsburg State University, which brings youthful energy and culture, crime remains a concern in surrounding neighborhoods, especially during late-night hours.
15. Liberal
Liberal, a city in southwest Kansas, has a violent crime rate of 315 per 100,000 and a murder rate of about 10.5 per 100,000. Crimes such as aggravated assault, domestic violence, and drug-related offenses are prevalent. The city’s proximity to major highways makes it a conduit for drug trafficking, which drives much of the local crime.
Law enforcement faces staffing shortages and high call volumes. While Liberal is known for its multicultural community and Wizard of Oz attractions, it struggles to contain violence and property crime, particularly in lower-income neighborhoods and areas near industrial sites.
16. Winfield
Winfield, located in south-central Kansas, reports a violent crime rate of 274 per 100,000 residents. The city’s crime is often fueled by substance abuse, especially methamphetamine, and related property crimes like theft and burglary. Domestic violence incidents are also common, and some neighborhoods near the downtown core report higher rates of police calls.
While the city hosts annual arts and music festivals, crime and poverty undercut its community feel. Law enforcement resources are stretched thin, and response times can be slow. These factors combine to make Winfield a place where vigilance is necessary, particularly after dark.
17. Ottawa
Ottawa, located along the Marais des Cygnes River, has a violent crime rate of 270 per 100,000. It grapples with issues like assault, domestic violence, and drug abuse, all of which contribute to ongoing safety concerns. Property crime is also a problem, including home invasions and vehicle break-ins. Although Ottawa is known for its historic architecture and community events, some areas near downtown and the outskirts are prone to criminal activity.
Law enforcement is active but faces challenges due to limited staffing and high demand. Residents remain wary, especially in areas with a history of repeat offenses.
18. Olathe
Olathe, part of the Kansas City metro area, may seem relatively affluent, but it still experiences a violent crime rate of 234 per 100,000 residents. Much of the crime is concentrated in specific pockets, involving assaults, burglaries, and occasional gang-related incidents. Property crime is a growing concern, including vehicle theft and retail shoplifting. Olathe’s rapid population growth has strained law enforcement and public services.
While the city boasts strong schools and a high quality of life in many neighborhoods, safety concerns persist in lower-income and high-traffic areas. Increased urbanization has led to new challenges in maintaining public safety.
19. El Dorado
El Dorado, a city in Butler County, faces a violent crime rate of 218 per 100,000, with concerns about assault, drug possession, and burglary. Methamphetamine addiction remains a pressing issue and drives much of the local crime. The prison on the city’s outskirts adds complexity to public safety dynamics. Residential break-ins and petty thefts occur frequently, especially in older parts of town.
Though El Dorado benefits from its oil industry history and proximity to Wichita, its crime rate places it among the more dangerous cities in Kansas. Police resources are limited, making crime prevention a constant challenge.
20. Shawnee
Shawnee, a suburb of Kansas City, reports a violent crime rate of 215 per 100,000. Though generally considered middle-class, the city experiences rising concerns over property crimes and occasional assaults. Residential burglaries, package thefts, and car break-ins are common, especially near commercial areas. Shawnee’s population growth and development have brought more urban challenges, including petty theft and traffic-related incidents.
While it retains a reputation for family-friendliness, certain neighborhoods near major highways and retail zones are more prone to criminal activity. Police presence is consistent, but like many growing suburbs, Shawnee faces ongoing struggles in balancing growth with safety.
21. Parsons
Parsons, located in southeastern Kansas, has a violent crime rate of approximately 211 per 100,000. The city contends with high levels of drug activity, particularly methamphetamine and opioids, which fuel much of the violence and theft. Burglaries, assaults, and domestic disputes are common in older residential neighborhoods. Despite efforts at revitalization and community policing, limited resources and persistent poverty challenge public safety.
Parsons also faces issues with gang-related crimes and vandalism. While it maintains a small-town feel, the city’s ongoing struggle with crime makes certain areas hazardous, especially during nighttime hours and weekends when incidents tend to spike.
22. Independence
Independence has a violent crime rate around 209 per 100,000, with frequent cases of aggravated assault and domestic violence. Property crimes are rampant, including thefts, vandalism, and break-ins. Economic hardship, unemployment, and limited law enforcement resources contribute to rising crime. Drug use, especially meth and prescription drug abuse, is a key driver.
Though the city has historical attractions and community events, safety concerns persist in many neighborhoods. Police are active but stretched thin, making it difficult to deter repeat offenses. As a result, both residents and visitors are advised to stay alert and avoid certain areas after dark.
23. Kansas City (Kansas side)
Kansas City, Kansas (KCK) struggles with one of the state’s higher urban crime rates, reporting over 200 violent crimes per 100,000 residents. The city’s issues include gang violence, drug trafficking, and gun-related crimes, particularly in neighborhoods like Argentine and Quindaro. Property crime is also high, including frequent auto thefts and burglaries.
Economic inequality, underfunded public services, and historically underserved communities contribute to its safety challenges.
While KCK offers cultural diversity and proximity to major Kansas City attractions, it remains a city where certain areas demand increased caution, especially after dark or in areas with known criminal activity.
24. Fort Scott
Fort Scott reports a violent crime rate of 198 per 100,000 and struggles with persistent property crimes, including home burglaries and auto theft. Located near the Missouri border, the city faces issues related to poverty, unemployment, and drug abuse, particularly methamphetamine. Domestic violence is common, and certain neighborhoods suffer from deteriorating infrastructure and minimal police presence.
While Fort Scott has historical significance, including a national historic site, its crime challenges have grown in recent years. Law enforcement works to address these concerns, but limited resources hinder long-term solutions. Many residents express concern over safety, particularly at night.
25. Hays
Hays, a college town in western Kansas, has a relatively moderate violent crime rate but experiences elevated property crime, including theft, vandalism, and vehicle break-ins. Much of the crime is tied to alcohol-related incidents and transient student populations from Fort Hays State University. While not among the worst cities for violence, Hays sees frequent disorderly conduct and domestic incidents.
The city’s nightlife and college activities sometimes contribute to late-night fights and disturbances. Though generally considered livable, areas near the college and downtown can be problematic, especially on weekends. Police are responsive, but petty crime remains a recurring issue.
26. Bonner Springs
Bonner Springs, located in the Kansas City metro area, has a growing crime problem fueled by its proximity to urban crime centers. Violent crime is below the state average, but property crime, particularly theft and burglary, is steadily increasing. Retail and vehicle-related thefts are common near commercial corridors and interstate exits. While much of the community is suburban and family-oriented, its location near high-crime areas in KCK affects safety.
The city is actively expanding and developing, but increased population density is straining police resources and contributing to rising incidents. Caution is advised, especially in high-traffic zones.
27. Prairie Village
Prairie Village is generally seen as an affluent suburb, but it has experienced rising property crime in recent years, including package thefts, car break-ins, and home burglaries. Violent crime remains low, but the frequency of theft-related incidents places it among Kansas cities with growing safety concerns. Its location near major Kansas City shopping districts and highways makes it a target for opportunistic criminals.
Though police response is usually swift, the perception of affluence can attract thieves. Residents report increasing concern over nighttime security and visible patrols, even though the city still maintains a relatively low violent crime rate.
28. Chanute
Chanute, a small city in Neosho County, reports a violent crime rate just under 200 per 100,000 residents, along with notable property crime levels. Assaults, burglaries, and drug-related incidents are common, especially in older neighborhoods. Like many small towns in Kansas, economic decline and addiction problems—particularly with methamphetamine—contribute to criminal activity. Law enforcement is present but under-resourced, making it difficult to deter persistent offenders.
Despite local cultural institutions and community events, residents often express concerns about safety, especially at night. While not the most dangerous, Chanute still requires vigilance due to its elevated crime for a city its size.
29. Coffeyville
Coffeyville, near the Oklahoma border, has long dealt with crime stemming from economic hardship, poverty, and drug abuse. The city’s violent crime rate is just below 200 per 100,000, but property crime is a bigger concern, including home invasions and car thefts. Areas with deteriorating infrastructure and limited policing report higher incidents. The opioid crisis has hit Coffeyville hard, driving theft and other desperation crimes.
Though it has a rich industrial history and several community initiatives, many residents are wary of leaving valuables outside or walking alone at night. Law enforcement continues to struggle with resource constraints.
30. Abilene
Abilene, the hometown of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, has a small population but faces rising crime, particularly property crime. While violent crime is relatively low, theft, burglary, and vandalism are common, especially in older residential and commercial areas. The local police department is responsive but limited by small-town staffing levels.
Drug abuse and economic stagnation contribute to a slow but steady increase in criminal activity. Despite its historic significance and tourism appeal, Abilene experiences enough incidents to warrant caution, especially during late hours or in less-trafficked parts of town.
Summary
The most dangerous cities in Kansas may also be described as the most violent; they are some of the places where bad things tend to happen.
Crime rates vary across Kansas, but certain cities consistently rank among the most dangerous. Wichita, Topeka, and Parsons are among the locations with higher-than-average violent crime rates. Factors such as economic challenges, population density, and law enforcement resources play a role in shaping crime trends.
Understanding these statistics can help residents stay informed and take necessary precautions. While crime remains a concern in these cities, efforts are being made to improve safety and reduce criminal activity.