Crime in Arkansas
Arkansas has long struggled with high crime rates with figures nearly double the national average. A complex mix of factors including high poverty rates contributes to the state’s elevated crime levels. Despite efforts to address these issues, many cities in Arkansas continue to experience significant crime problems affecting the quality of life for residents, according to the report of Lemley.
Cities With High Crime Rates in Arkansas
Osceola, a small town with 6,000 to 7,000 residents, has Arkansas’s highest crime rate at 51.3 per 1,000 residents. Helena-West Helena, with nearly 10,000 residents follows closely with a rate of 50.1. West Memphis, a city of 25,000, reports one of the state’s highest rates at 73.92, while Little Rock, the capital with 200,000 residents, has a rate of 72.08.
El Dorado (18,000 residents) has a rate of 48.99, and Hot Springs (37,000 residents) has 63.87. Fordyce, with about 4,000 residents, has a high rate of 68.84. Fort Smith, with 90,000 residents, reports 60.11. Newport and Jacksonville with populations of 8,000 and 28,000, have rates of 58.11 and 57.6, respectively.
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(photo: Redfin)
Cities With Low Crime Rates in Arkansas
Despite Arkansas’ high overall crime rate, several towns maintain significantly lower levels. Greenbrier (population 6,000) has a low crime rate of 9.96 per 1,000 residents. Bella Vista, with nearly 30,000 residents, boasts an even lower rate of 4.25. Greenwood (population 10,000) has a rate of 5.46, and Farmington (7,000 residents) reports 7 per 1,000. Centerton, with 15,000 residents, has a rate of 6.29, while White Hall (population 5,000) reports 11.11. Lowell, with over 9,000 residents, has a crime rate of 9.81, and Pea Ridge (population 6,000) maintains a rate of 8.24. Maumelle, with 18,000 residents, has a rate of 14.16, and Hot Springs Village (population 15,000) reports 11.8.
FAQs
Q: What City in Arkansas Has the Highest Crime Rate?
A: Osceola is one of the top cities in Arkansas with the highest crime rate despite its low population. Factors such as high poverty contribute to the persistent crime issues in the city.
Q: What City in Arkansas Has the Lowest Crime Rate?
A: Bella Vista is among the cities with the lowest reported crime rates in Arkansas. Residents feel a strong sense of security, making it one of the safest places in the state.
Q: Where Does Little Rock Rank Amongst the State’s Most Dangerous Cities?
A: Little Rock ranks high among the most dangerous cities in Arkansas and the United States. It is often considered the most dangerous city in the state, with high rates of violent and property crimes.
Q: Why Is the Crime Rate So High in Arkansas?
A: The high crime rate in Arkansas is closely linked to socioeconomic factors such as poverty and education levels. A large portion of the state’s population lives in poverty, which correlates with higher crime rates.
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