Alabama is a great place to call home, but crime does occur within the state’s boundaries. Using FBI statistics to analyze Alabama cities with 5,000 or more residents, the RoadSnacks website compiled a list of the most dangerous cities in Alabama and concluded that these 10 are some of the most dangerous towns in Alabama to reside in. Let’s check out some of the worst places to live in Alabama. Please note: these towns are listed in no particular order, and the towns are not inherently “bad” places in Alabama!

1. Bessemer (Population: Approx. 25,600)

Bessemer, AL, USA
JJ Cunning via Wikimedia Commons
Bessemer, known as "The Marvel City," is located in Jefferson County and is situated in the midst of the iron ore and limestone district of Alabama. Bessemer might be considered the most dangerous city in Alabama, but it's also home to Alabama Splash Adventure - one of the best water parks in the state.

2. Fairfield (Population: Approx. 9,800)

Fairfield, AL, USA
Patriarca12 via Wikimedia Commons
Founded in 1910, Fairfield is located in western Jefferson County, near Birmingham. This Alabama city was planned as a model city by the Tennessee Coal, Iron and Railroad Company to house workers in their new Fairfield Works plant, which is now owned by U.S. Steel. Because of Fairfield's location, residents have the opportunity to vacation close to home by visiting Alabama's 23 state resort parks.

3. Anniston (Population: Approx. 21,000)

Anniston, AL, USA
Rivers Langley; SaveRivers via Wikimedia Commons
Anniston is the county seat of Calhoun County. In recent years, Anniston has put a plan into motion and is updating the city to attract tourists, businesses, retirees and young professionals. Anniston is also home to the most haunted bar in the state.

4. Lanett (Population: Approx. 6,800)

Lanett, AL 36863, USA
SaveRivers via Wikimedia Commons
Lanett, which was first settled during the 1840s, is located in Chambers County and sits on the Chattahoochee River. A portion of Fort Tyler, the last Confederate fort to fall during the Civil War, is located in Lanett.

5. Selma (Population: Approx. 17,600)

Selma, AL, USA
Carol M. Highsmith via Wikimedia Commons
Selma was incorporated in 1820 and is the county seat of Dallas County. Selma sits on the banks of the Alabama River and is best known for the 1960s Selma Voting Rights Movement. Selma might be considered a dangerous area to live in, but there's no doubt it's full of great history.

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6. Guntersville (Population: Approx. 8,700)

Guntersville, AL, USA
Rivers Langley; SaveRivers via Wikimedia Commons
Guntersville, located in Marshall County, is home to Lake Guntersville - Alabama's largest lake (69,000 acres). Lake Guntersville attracts fishermen from all over the world.

7. Gadsden (Population: Approx. 33,700)

Gadsden, AL, USA
Carol M. Highsmith via Wikimedia Commons
Founded in 1825, Gadsden is the county seat of Etowah County and is located on the Coosa River. Gadsden is home to the gorgeous 90-foot Noccalula Falls.

8. Arab (Population: Approx. 8,500)

Arab, AL 35016, USA
Arkyan via Wikimedia Commons
Arab, which was incorporated in 1892, is located on top of Brindlee Mountain in Marshall and Cullman Counties. Despite being a dangerous city to live in, Arab has a quality learning environment for all ages and many opportunities are provided to its citizens such as employment, recreation and cultural experiences.

9. Talladega (Population: Approx. 15,600)

Talladega, AL 35160, USA
Rivers Langley; SaveRivers via Wikimedia Commons
Located in Talladega County, Talladega is approximately 50 miles outside of Birmingham. For NASCAR fans, Talladega Superspeedway is located in Lincoln, which is only a short drive away. Talladega is also home to one of the best BBQ restaurants in America. With all of these pluses, do you consider it to be the most dangerous city in Alabama?

10. Jasper (Population: Approx. 14,000)

Jasper, AL, USA
Bamassippi at English Wikipedia via Wikimedia Commons
Incorporated in 1887, Jasper is the county seat of Walker County and was once ranked among the world's leading producers of coal. Jasper might be considered a dangerous city to live in, but it has one of the top-ranked school systems in the state. Despite its ranking, Jasper is definitely worth visiting. Stop in at this old-school drive-in restaurant next time you're in town!

Even though these Alabama towns have higher crime rates than other areas of the state, and some might consider them to be the worst places to live in Alabama, they’re still much safer than many of the larger cities in other states. Alabama, overall, is a safe place to live. What do you think of this list? Did any of the worst small towns in Alabama surprise you? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section!

And if you want to escape the hustle and bustle, check out these nine peaceful places in Alabama.

Here Are The 9 Most Peaceful Places To Go In Alabama When You Need A Break From It All

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Most Dangerous Towns In Alabama

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Contrary to popular belief, Alabama is full of eerie places. Whether you want to spend a night in a haunted hotel or drive along the spookiest highway, there are plenty of opportunities for ghost hunting. Here are some of the most haunted places in Alabama:

If you’re a paranormal enthusiast, why not embark on our haunted Alabama road trip? Pile into a comfy RV because this adventure will lead you to some thrilling places. But be warned! Some people think these are the most dangerous places to avoid in Alabama.

Is Alabama a great place to live?

Absolutely! Even the most dangerous places in Alabama pale in comparison to other states. Our crime rates are low, and our lifestyle is affordable. Alabama is not only gorgeous, it’s full of friendly people! If you’re looking for a lovely place to live that’s full of southern charm, this could be the state for you.

Do Alabamians have any strange habits?

Like any place, Alabama has a few quirks. It should come as no surprise, then, that its residents pick up some silly habits. Here are a few strange habits Alabamans have:

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Yes, Alabamians love deep frying food and drinking sweet tea, but that’s just the beginning. One of the most lovable habits is overflowing kindness towards neighbors. Want to learn more? Read our full article about the 10 undying habits every Alabama resident has.

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