Based on violent and property crimes, it seems no corner of The Natural State is completely free of danger. Here are the top ten most dangerous cities in Arkansas. Thanks to the fine folks over at RoadSnacks, we know that each year the FBI releases statewide crime data that the site then uses to compile lists of the country’s most dangerous destinations. If you were curious what cities made the list, then look no further (we’ve updated for each city after the most recent data for 2022):

1. Little Rock
Little Rock, AR, USA
Getty Images/ CWellsPhotography
Unfortunately Little Rock is still the number one city for crime in Arkansas. According to the FBI, residents of the capitol have a 1 in 16 chance of being a victim of a property crime. Little Rock's high crime rate is one of the reasons Arkansas is rated as the 4th most dangerous state in the nation following Alaska, New Mexico, and Louisiana. Update: Little Rock actually moved to the 3rd spot on the list for 2022! Be sure to check out the largest flea market in Arkansas there for some great deals.
2. Helena-West Helena
Helena-West Helena, AR, USA
Wikipedia
Helena-West Helena does have the Arkansas Community of Excellence award for economic growth but unfortunately the city's crime has grown as well. In 2019, this area saw 11 murders and 187 violent crimes. That's why it's listed as one of the most dangerous places to avoid in Arkansas. Update: Unfortunately, crime rates in Helena-West Helena have worsened, moving it to the #1 spot on the list for 2022. Check out this strange phenomenon in the area.
3. West Memphis
West Memphis, AR, USA
Facebook/The City of West Memphis
Thankfully this city has not seen another gut-wrenching spree since the West Memphis Three but it has moved up to the 3rd most dangerous city in the state. In addition to the 1 in 50 chance of being a victim of a violent crime, residents also face a high chance of becoming a victim of theft or arson. Update: West Memphis shifted to the 5th spot on the list for 2022!
4. El Dorado
El Dorado, AR 71730, USA
Facebook/Main Street El Dorado
Not all that glitters is gold in El Dorado. The city had quite the jump in ranking in recent years. Violent crime has stayed about the same, but theft and arson are up. Residents have a 1 in 74 chance of being victims of a violent crime and a 1 and 17 chance of falling prey to a property crime. Update: El Dorado moved to the 7th spot on the list for 2022 of most dangerous towns in Arkansas! And it has one of the best cultural scenes in Arkansas, too.
5. Osceola
Osceola, AR 72370, USA
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Osceola has made improvements since the city had been ranked 2nd for 2019 but there's still some pretty concerning statistics. Citizens have a 1 in 38 chance of being a victim of rape, murder or aggravated assault as well as a 1 in 21 chance for property crime. Update: For 2022, the city of Osceola has continued its improvements with crime rates, slightly shifting to the 6th spot on the list.

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6. Blytheville
Blytheville, AR 72315, USA
Wikipedia
Although Blytheville has one of the largest drive-thru Christmas displays, it seems the holiday cheer doesn't last the whole year. Folks have a 1 in 16.5 chance to become of victim of property crime but that's not the worst part. The city's population has continue to decline but crime has continued to increase each year. Update: Blytheville has made significant improvements in its crime statistics, moving out of the top ten list for 2022.
7. Fort Smith
Fort Smith, AR, USA
Wikipedia/Tom Holland
From its multi-tiered waterfall to its magical trolley ride, Fort Smith has a lot to offer. Unfortunately, this charming city is also home to some violent crime. If you live in this lovely town, you have a 1 in 17 chance of being the victim of a property crime. You also have a 1 in 102 chance of falling prey to a violent crime. So when you're exploring the area's stunning scenery, make sure to keep your eye on your valuables! Update: Fort Smith also has made significant improvements in its crime statistics, moving down to the 10th spot for 2022.
8. Jacksonville
Jacksonville, AR, USA
Wikipedia
Jacksonville's crime rate has continued to climb. This Little Rock suburb has the 14th highest crime rate in the state! Stay safe out there, readers! Update: Jacksonville has made improvements in its crime statistics, also moving out of the top ten list for 2022. And you can enjoy some of the best catfish in Arkansas in Jacksonville!
9. Paragould
Paragould, AR 72450, USA
Wikipedia/Thomas R Machnitzki
Locals call this the "friendly city," but that doesn't mean it's without some crime. Paragould residents have a 1 in 21 chance of being the victim of a property crime.
10. Hot Springs
Hot Springs, AR, USA
Wikipedia/Brandonrush
Most people know Hot Springs for its upscale flea market and its historical national park, but its also harboring a dangerous secret. When it comes to property crime, this picturesque city ranks number one. However, Hot Springs has a lower violent crime rate, which brings its overall ranking down to 10. Update: And in 2022, Hot Springs moved off the list of the 10 most dangerous cities in Arkansas!

Did you guess the top ten most dangerous cities in Arkansas correctly? Does any particular city on the list surprise you? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

As we already know, Arkansas isn’t all bad! Here are a few reasons why we’re thankful for living in the Natural State.

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most dangerous cities in Arkansas

Elisa Regulski | January 04, 2022

What is the worst place to live in Arkansas?

There’s a lot to love about the Natural State: the parks, hot springs, scrumptious food, and southern hospitality. However, that doesn’t mean this state is absolutely perfect. If you’re judging solely off of crime rates, Little Rock is the worst place to live in Arkansas. But you have to remember, with so many people living in this city, it’s bound to have higher rates of burglary and violence. In our opinion, there’s no bad place to live in Arkansas. We just love this gorgeous state!

What are the best things about living in Arkansas?

Nature lovers adore Arkansas! After all, they don’t call it the Natural State for nothing. From waterfalls to refreshing hot springs, Arkansas boasts some breathtaking beauty. Of course, we’re also home to some of the best soul food in the nation. If you love visiting mom and pop diners, you’ll have no trouble dining in Arkansas. Plus, our residents are friendly and down-to-earth. If you want to make fast friends for life, move to the Natural State. 

Where can I find more of the best photos of Arkansas?

Sometimes, you just have to see it to believe it. If you want to soak up some of the magnificent sights this state has to offer, we’ve got you covered. Check out our previous article about the 12 most stunning photos of Arkansas. Here, you’ll get up-close views of cabins, skylines, and man-made wonders. Who knows? You might even get inspiration for your next road trip!

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