These are the 5 most dangerous cities in Vermont

Vermont, known for its serene landscapes and as one of the safest states in the U.S., still faces urban crime challenges in some of its cities. Despite being the second least populated state, Vermont’s urban centers reflect a different reality compared to its overall peaceful image. Here’s a deeper look into the five cities in Vermont that, historically, have had higher crime rates.

Barre

Barre, positioned near Montpelier, the state capital, is renowned as the “Granite Center of the World.” Despite its small size and industrial fame, Barre experiences violent crime rates 50% higher than the national average and nearly four times the state average. The likelihood of becoming a victim of crime per square mile in Barre is ten times higher compared to the Vermont average.

St. Albans

St. Albans, a quaint village in northern Vermont by Lake Champlain, is unique with 38% of its area covered by water. However, this scenic locale belies a less serene aspect: its violent crime rate is three times the state average, and property crime is 2.5 times higher. The crime per square mile in St. Albans is a staggering 25 times the state average.

Rutland

Rutland, founded in the 1760s and known for its national historic downtown district, faces significant safety issues. With over 80 crimes per square mile compared to Vermont’s average of 5, Rutland’s crime rate is alarmingly high. Caution is advised in downtown Rutland, one of the less safe areas.

Winooski

Winooski, often called “Onion City,” is the smallest among Vermont’s ten cities, spanning about 1.5 square miles. The area between Route 89 and Route 27 is particularly risky. Winooski’s violent crime rate is about 60% higher than the state average, with a crime rate per square mile 30 times higher at 154.

Burlington

Burlington, hosting the state’s largest airport, is Vermont’s largest city and a cultural hub near Lake Champlain. While its violent crime rate is less than twice the state average, Burlington’s real issue lies with property crimes, which are more than three times the state average. The city’s crime rate per square mile is 22 times higher than the Vermont average.

These cities, despite their challenges, are also centers of culture, history, and economic activity. It’s important to stay informed with the latest crime statistics and understand that efforts to improve public safety are ongoing. Consulting local authorities and reliable sources is essential for current information on crime rates in these Vermont cities. Remember, crime is just one aspect of a city’s character, and these locations offer unique experiences beyond their safety profiles.