Mississippi has been ranked the 36th most dangerous state in the country, placing it in the top half of states in terms of safety. But just in case you want to know which places are a little less secure, we’ve put together this list, with the help of Home Security Shield, of the most dangerous places to live in Mississippi. Is Mississippi safe? Remember, just because a city is on this list doesn’t mean it should be avoided altogether. All of Mississippi’s cities are awesome in their own right and have something great to offer. Let’s take a look at the most dangerous cities in Mississippi.

10. Moss Point
Moss Point, MS, USA
Wikimedia Commons
Located in Jackson County, the city of Moss Point was extensively damaged during Hurricane Katrina in August of 2005, with most of the city either flooded or destroyed in a day’s time. The city may have been rebuilt but it is still among the dangerous places to avoid in Mississippi. Read more about Moss Point.
9. McComb
McComb, MS, USA
Earl McGehee/Flickr
Surprisingly enough, this dangerous city was voted the "Hospitality City of the Hospitality State" three years in a row. If you know where to go, though, there are some gems here. Check out more about this fun restaurant in McComb.

Take a drive through downtown McComb:

8. Pascagoula
Pascagoula, MS, USA
John Corbett/Flickr
This Gulf Coast city is most known for its industrial ties, as it is home to one of the state’s largest employers, Ingalls Shipbuilding. While this city may be included among the state's most dangerous, the violent crime rate has been dropping over the past few years. Hopefully, soon it won't make the list of dangerous places to live in Mississippi. Check out more about Pascagoula.
7. Greenwood
Greenwood, MS, USA
Sean Davis/Flickr
Once known as the "Cotton Capital of the World," Greenwood has more recently become associated with the movie "The Help" since a majority of it was filmed in this Delta town. Something the town doesn't like being associated with? Having a violent crime rate significantly higher than the national average. Find out more about Greenwood.

Take a closer look at Greenwood:

6. Vicksburg
Vicksburg, MS, USA
Michael Noirot/Flickr
This historic city is most commonly associated with the Vicksburg National Military Park, but as of 2013 property crimes seem to be another defining factor of the city. During that year, Vicksburg had over a thousand crimes of this type. See more about Vicksburg.

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5. Clarksdale
Clarksdale, MS, USA
John-Cathey Roberts/Flickr
It’s safe to say this city definitely has the Blues since, in 2013, Clarksdale’s violent crime rate was 10.36 per one thousand residents. Read more about Clarksdale.
4. Cleveland
Cleveland, MS 38732, USA
Alex Pellegrineschi/Google
Located in Bolivar County, Cleveland has quite a large commercial economy and, unfortunately, a high overall crime rate to go along with it. To put it into perspective, your chance of becoming a victim of a crime while in Cleveland is 1 in 14. There are plenty of positive aspects of this town as well. Find out more about Cleveland, MS.

Take a driving tour through Cleveland:

3. Greenville
Greenville, MS, USA
Nelson Hernandez/Google
This Washington County town may be the birthplace of Jim Henson, the creator of everyone’s favorite green muppet, but it is also one of the most dangerous cities in the state thanks in part to an extremely high occurrence of property crimes. In 2013 alone, Greenville experienced thousands of this type of crime, which includes burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Greenville features some excellent opportunities to enjoy nature, though. Read more about Greenville Cypress Preserve.
2. Jackson
Jackson, MS, USA
Fernando Mendez/Google
One of the state’s largest cities, Jackson has a population of almost 200,000 – and the crime rate to go along with it. In 2012, the capital city was ranked 8th when it came to the most dangerous cities in the United States. If you know where to go, there are several fun spots to go in this town. Learn about a family-friendly park in Jackson.
1. Indianola
Indianola, MS 38751, USA
Jimmy Emerson DVM/Flickr
Even though this Delta city is a bit on the smaller side in terms of population, it is actually considered the most dangerous place to live in Mississippi. With a crime rate of 9.3 per one thousand residents, visitors to the town have a 1 in 12 chance of becoming a victim of crime. Even in a town with crime, there are plenty of gems. Read all about Crown Restaurant in Indianola.

Have you visited any of the most dangerous cities in Mississippi? Do you know of other cities that should be added to this list? Share your thoughts in the comments section For some good news, take a look at the safest cities in Mississippi.

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More to Explore

Most Dangerous Places to Live in Mississippi

Danielle Schwartz | July 08, 2022

What are the most scenic towns in Mississippi?

The most scenic towns in Mississippi include:

  • Natchez
  • Vicksburg
  • Port Gibson

 

The most scenic towns in Mississippi are perfect for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or even a new home if you're looking to move. Natchez is one lovely place to go along the Mississippi River. For those hoping for water views galore, Natchez is the place for you. If you or your traveling companions are interested in history, head to Vicksburg National Military Park for some educational fun and beautiful views. For more historical glory, check out Port Gibson. It's like going back in time to the 1800s to see the architectural ruins.

Where are the safest places to live in Mississippi?

The safest places to live in Mississippi include:

  • Madison
  • Brandon
  • Olive Branch
  • Horn

 

After reading about the most dangerous cities in the state, you might be wondering where the safest places to live in Mississippi are. The good news is that there are plenty of great towns to settle down in with your family. The first on the list is Madison, which has a pretty consistent place at number one. Brandon, Olive Branch, and Horn Lake are a few other excellent choices that will make you feel comfortable and right at home. You can relax without having to worry about much violent crime in these nice areas and rest assured that your loved ones will be safe here as well.

What are the best small towns in Mississippi?

The best small towns in Mississippi include:

  • Bay St. Louis
  • Water Valley

 

While big cities have lots of fun perks, sometimes you just need to go somewhere smaller for a quiet getaway. Or maybe you prefer a more laid-back way of life and want to live in one of these sweet places. The best small towns in Mississippi will charm you to no end. Bay St. Louis, which is the best place to go if you love art and shopping, is a fantastic place for a nice coastal feel. Water Valley is ideal for a historical area that features a classic Main Street area with great restaurants.

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