Here are America’s most dangerous cities in 2025 : Washington D.C. isn’t on the list

In 2025, violent crime remains a defining challenge for urban America, with several cities still battling high rates of assault, homicide, and property theft.

According to newly released FBI statistics and rankings from U.S. News & World Report, Memphis, Oakland, and St. Louis lead the nation as the most dangerous cities to live in. Each facing persistent struggles with gun violence and organized crime.

Is Washington D.C. America’s most dangerous and violent city?

Washington D.C. has drawn intense federal scrutiny in recent days, with political leaders citing concerns over public safety. Yet the data tells a different story: the capital doesn’t appear in the top 25 most dangerous cities, not even close.

In fact, Washington has experienced one of the sharpest declines in violent crime nationwide, marking a significant shift in its public safety trajectory.

Violent crime overall is down 26% this year compared to the same point in 2024, and robbery is down 28%, according to the MPDC.

The violent crime figures for Washington D.C. vary depending on the source. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPDC) reported a 35% drop in 2024, while FBI data reflected a more modest 9% decline.

Both agencies agree that crime is falling in the District, but they differ significantly on the extent of that improvement.

Experts point out that homicide rates are heavily shaped by how city boundaries are drawn. In Washington D.C., the city limits encompass a fully urban area, unlike cities such as Philadelphia, where suburban neighborhoods are included in the official count, often diluting crime statistics.

Still, the numbers underscore that serious challenges remain. According to U.S. Data, Washington D.C. ranks fourth nationwide in homicides, signaling an urgent need for sustained, community-driven solutions.

Yet it’s important to note: D.C. is not the highest in the country for homicides or overall violent crime. With a focused and constructive path forward, cities like the District can continue to improve public safety and rebuild trust.

Top 15 most dangerous cities in America

Here is a list of the top 15 most dangerous cities in America for 2025 based on violent crime rates per 100,000 residents are:

1. Memphis, TN
2. Oakland, CA
3. St. Louis, MO
4. Baltimore, MD
5. Detroit, MI
6. Alexandria, LA
7. Cleveland, OH
8. New Orleans, LA
9. Monroe, LA
10. Pueblo, CO
11. Anniston, AL
12. Little Rock, AR
13. Myrtle Beach, SC
14. Tacoma, WA
15. Birmingham, AL

What’s driving the crime?

While the cities listed above face undeniable public safety challenges, experts caution against viewing crime rates in isolation. Economic instability, housing insecurity, and strained police-community relations all play a role in shaping these statistics.

As policymakers, residents, and law enforcement agencies work to address root causes, the path forward will require more than reactive measures. It demands sustained investment, data-driven strategies, and community trust.

Read the full list of cities here.