Idahoans are fortunate to live in a state where crime is blessedly low and everyone still somehow knows everyone else, keeping the streets as safe as seemingly possible in this day and age. But no state is entirely perfect. You might remember a few months ago we talked about the most dangerous places in Idaho. In the article below, we take a closer look at the nitty-gritty details of Idaho’s most dangerous cities that may or may not have made the list in terms of the overall score.

Calculated from the FBI’s most recent crime report, as well as additional sources like the Idaho State Police annual report, here are the most dangerous places in Idaho to be when the sun goes down:

1. Sandpoint
Sandpoint, ID 83864, USA
jlh_lunasea/Flickr
While a small town at heart, this tourist destination in Northern Idaho actually has the highest aggravated assault rate in the state according to the FBI's most recent report. Of course, Sandpoint is also considered to be one of the coolest small towns in Idaho, with some amazing outdoor adventure opportunities, great places to eat, and fantastic art galleries just for starters.
2. Twin Falls
Twin Falls, ID, USA
Antti/Flickr
For the last decade or so, Twin Falls has unfortunately ranked at the top of the state specifically for illegal methamphetamine usage. If you plan a visit, you should also note that the region is famous for its beautiful waterfalls. In fact, Twin Falls County has the most waterfalls of any region in Idaho!
3. Shoshone
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
This tiny town in Southern Idaho is hiding a major secret: the highest crime rate in Idaho for violent crimes, with a 1 in 114 chance of being a victim, according to our FBI report. A close second was Garden City. And yet the region is known for a lot more. In fact, Shoshone has been rated as having one of the most underrated views in the U.S.

Related Stories

If You're Sick, These 10 Hospitals In Idaho Are The Best In The State

If You're Sick, These 10 Hospitals In Idaho Are The Best In The State

 6 Most Terrifying Drives You Can Possibly Take In Idaho

6 Most Terrifying Drives You Can Possibly Take In Idaho

 Mormon Crickets Are Back In Idaho And They Are Coming In Massive Swarms

Mormon Crickets Are Back In Idaho And They Are Coming In Massive Swarms
4. Boise
Boise, ID, USA
Nicholas D./Flickr
While Boise's overall crime remains surprisingly low for a growing city, if probability, population size, and recent college scandals are any indication, Boise could easily find itself moving in the way of other large cities across the nation in the near future. After all, numbers-wise, Boise naturally tops the chart for every major crime type.
5. Lewiston
Lewiston, ID 83501, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
For the past decade or so, the city of Lewiston has reported the highest levels of alcohol abuse in the state - a trend that the Wall St. Journal recently picked up on as well. With 18.6% of adults reporting binge or heavy drinking and 25.6% of vehicular deaths being alcohol related, it's safe to say that Lewiston isn't the ideal place to be come nightfall. A little-known fact about Lewiston is that it's also home to a secret network of underground tunnels.
6. Coeur d'Alene
Coeur d'Alene, ID, USA
mm_berndt/Flickr
This resort town in Northern Idaho may be a victim of its own beauty due to a significant rise in tourism in recent years. With a 1 in 179 chance of being the victim of a crime, that puts CDA as 2nd place for the most dangerous cities in Idaho. That being said, Coeur d'Alene is also one of the best places to live in Idaho. Check out our 12 reasons to move to Coeur d'Alene!
7. Idaho Falls
Idaho Falls, ID, USA
Christian Kaiser/Flickr
Idaho Falls isn't known for being a particularly crime-ridden city. But what many don't realize is that Bonneville County has a surprisingly high crime rate. Of course, Idaho Falls is also filled with wonderful hidden gems, including a beautiful secret garden, an underwater ghost town, and a little-known hike with secret caves, waterfalls, and desert oases.

Combine this list of the most dangerous places in Idaho with our original list of the most dangerous cities, and you’ll have a relatively clear picture of places in the Gem State where the crime rate is higher than average. Of course, it’s important to remember that Idaho is still a wonderful place to live, and statistics aren’t always an accurate reflection of any given town. It’s also important to note that all statistics reported here were offered voluntarily and don’t take into account cities with populations under 2,000.

That being said, be sure to check out our most recent list of Idaho’s safest cities as well, and let us know whether you agree or disagree with the FBI’s report. And to end things on a positive note, let’s spend some time in the most charming small towns in Idaho.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

most dangerous places in Idaho

Beth C. | December 28, 2021

What are the most beautiful places to explore in Idaho?

Some of the most beautiful places to explore in Idaho include:

  • Idaho Botanical Garden
  • Sun Valley
  • Darby Wind Cave
  • lakes of North Idaho
  • the Pulaski Tunnel Trail
  • Magruder Corridor

 

Just like every state, Idaho is home to some places that are considered more dangerous than others. And yet, that's certainly no reason to avoid visiting the Gem State. True to its nickname, Idaho is positively filled with gorgeous natural wonders that could impress just about everyone. In fact, we've put together a bucket list for exploring Idaho that will surely bring out the adventurer in you. At the top of our list is a trip to Black Magic Canyon. A fascinating and unique volcanic river canyon, this otherworldly destination is both a hiking trail and sculpture garden. It's only open to visitors during the spring and summer months, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. Next up on our list would be a trip to Craters of the Moon. Layers of ancient geology and fascinating formations await you inside this beloved park. Check out our complete Idaho outdoor bucket list.

Does Idaho have any hidden gems?

You bet! Now that we've covered some of the state's most popular attractions, it's time to learn about some lesser-known spots throughout the state. Some of these destinations include Sportsman Park, the underwater ghost town of Roosevelt, Winchester Lake State Park, Owyhee Canyonlands, the town of Weiser, Lilly Lake in the Sawtooths, Salmon River Lodge Resort, Box Canyon Springs, Trail Creek Cabin, and Independence Point.

Related Articles

Explore Idaho