Virginia, often referred to as the “Old Dominion,” is a state with a rich tapestry of history and diverse geography, located in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. As of 2022, it has a population of over 8.6 million, indicating its growing appeal.
Notably, more than one-third of Virginians reside in the bustling metropolitan area of Northern Virginia, a hub that includes major cities like Washington and Baltimore, contributing to its vibrancy and diversity. It’s also worth noting that marijuana is legal in Virginia, adding another layer to its diverse social landscape.
Richmond, the state capital, holds a special place, but it’s Virginia Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and scenic views, that stands as the most populous city in Virginia. The state’s geographical variety is captivating, ranging from sandy beaches to the fertile Shenandoah Valley, and extending to the stunning Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains.
The unfortunate rate of violent crime makes Richmond one of the most dangerous places in Virginia, but it didn’t make the list of top 10.
Virginia’s history, as one of the original thirteen U.S. colonies, is deeply rooted. Its state legislature, established in 1619, is the oldest in North America, symbolizing Virginia’s enduring legacy and rich heritage.
The crime data and safety insights presented here are based on FBI and other online statistics and reports from various sources, including local authorities and crime mapping tools. This methodology helps to provide an accurate and current overview of the safety landscape in different cities across Virginia. The information is gathered from reliable platforms and is intended to offer valuable insights for both residents and visitors, ensuring an informed and safe experience in this historically and geographically diverse state.
Key Takeaways
- High-risk cities in Virginia: Roanoke, Martinsville, Waynesboro, Lynchburg, Hampton, Charlottesville, Winchester, Hopewell, Alexandria, and Harrisonburg.
- Harrisonburg’s crime rate is higher than the national average, with a notable rate of violent crimes.
- Alexandria, despite a higher crime rate, is considered safer than cities of similar size.
- Hopewell experiences a higher crime rate compared to similar population size communities.
- Winchester has a significant crime rate, with a notable risk of both violent and property crimes.
- Charlottesville faces high crime rates, particularly in property crimes and motor vehicle theft.
- Important safety measures include staying alert, securing belongings, preparing for weather conditions, and staying informed about local safety risks and regulations.
10 High-Risk Cities
| City | Population | Total Crime Rate per 100,000 | Chance of Being a Victim |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roanoke | 97,915 | 22,800 | 1 in 19 |
| Martinsville | 5,766 | 4,203 | – |
| Waynesboro | 6,720 | 3,768 | 1 in 27 |
| Lynchburg | 7,588 | 3,587 | 1 in 28 |
| Hampton | Not specified | 3,354 | – |
| Charlottesville | Not specified | 3,270 | – |
| Winchester | Not specified | 3,129 | 1 in 33 |
| Hopewell | 42,590 | 3,118 | – |
| Alexandria | 33,458 | – | 1 in 34 |
| Harrisonburg | Not specified | 2,665 | – |
10. Harrisonburg: Safety Insights in the Shenandoah Valley
In Harrisonburg, Virginia, the crime rate is notably higher than the national average, with 19 crimes per one thousand residents. The rate of property crime in Harrisonburg stands at 17 per one thousand population, indicating an above-average chance of becoming a victim of property crime like motor vehicle theft, arson, larceny, and burglary, according to the Neighborhood Scout. Chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Harrisonburg is 1 in 51. A friend once attended a concert in Harrisonburg.
Though he enjoyed the music, he noticed a heightened police presence in the area. This made sense, given the city’s crime statistics, and he felt reassured by the visible safety measures. However, compared to similarly populated cities, Harrisonburg’s crime rate is relatively lower. The city experiences a higher rate of violent crime compared to many American communities, with the likelihood of becoming a victim of a violent crime being 1 in 405.
- Crime Rate: 19 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 405
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 53
9. Alexandria: Exploring Safely in a City of History
In Alexandria, Virginia, the crime rate is considerably higher than the national average, with a rate of 20 crimes per one thousand residents. Residents have a 1 in 51 chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime. Compared to similar-sized communities across America, Alexandria’s crime rate is lower, indicating that it is safer than most cities of comparable size. On a business trip to Alexandria, my colleague had her wallet pickpocketed in a crowded market.
She was surprised, given Alexandria’s reputation as a historic and seemingly peaceful city. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Alexandria is 1 in 465, with a violent crime rate of 2 per one thousand inhabitants reported by the States officials. The rate for property crime in the city is 17 per one thousand population, suggesting a higher chance of becoming a victim of property crimes like burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, and arson compared to the national average.
- Crime Rate: 20 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 465
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 59
8. Hopewell: Be Cautious
In Hopewell, Virginia, the crime rate is higher than the national average, with 22 crimes per one thousand residents. This rate makes Hopewell less safe compared to other communities in the U.S. Residents have a 1 in 46 chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime. My girlfriend and I once visited a quaint cafe in Hopewell. Despite its charm, we were advised by locals to keep an eye on our belongings, a tip that was in line with the city’s crime statistics.
When compared to communities of similar population size, Hopewell’s crime rate is higher than average. The likelihood of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Hopewell is 1 in 309, and the rate of property crime is 18 per one thousand population, indicating an above-average chance of becoming a victim of property crimes like burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, and arsonโโ according to the OJP.
- Crime Rate: 22 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 309
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 56
7. Winchester: Historic Charm and Contemporary Risks
In Winchester, Virginia, the crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, with 27 crimes per one thousand residents, making it safer than only 13% of U.S. neighborhoods. The chance of being a victim of either violent or property crime is 1 in 37.
Violent crime in Winchester occurs at a rate higher than in most American communities of all sizes, with a chance of 1 in 356 of being a victim as per Neighborhood Scout.
Property crime rates are also high, with a 1 in 41 chance of becoming a victimโโ. I attended a wedding in Winchester. While the historical setting was beautiful, I noticed several security cameras around, which was a subtle reminder of the city’s higher crime rates.
- Crime Rate: 27 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 356
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 41
6. Charlottesville: Balancing Beauty with Safety Awareness
Charlottesville, Virginia, has a notably high crime rate, with 36 crimes per one thousand residents, placing it among the highest in America for all community sizes. It has one of the highest rates of motor vehicle theft in the nation.The chance of being a victim of either violent or property crime is 1 in 28. Compared to other communities of similar size, Charlottesville’s crime rate is higher as per Home Snack reports.
A family friend living in Charlottesville always advises visitors to be cautious after dusk, especially near downtown areas, emphasizing the city’s concerning crime rate. The violent crime rate is one of the highest nationally, with a 1 in 187 chance of being a victim. Property crime is also prevalent, with a 1 in 33 chance of becoming a victim.
- Crime Rate: 36 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 187
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 33
5. Hampton: Staying Safe by the Sea
Hampton, home to the world’s largest naval base, is also one of Virginia’s most unsafe cities.In Hampton, Virginia, the crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, with 28 crimes per one thousand residents. Residents have a 1 in 36 chance of being a victim of either violent or property crime. Hampton’s crime rate is higher than 93% of Virginia’s cities and towns reported by the Hampton state officials.
During a visit to Hampton, my uncle’s car was broken into near a tourist spot. This incident was a stark reminder of the city’s high property crime rate. The likelihood of becoming a victim of a violent crime is 1 in 348, and for property crime, it’s 1 in 40. Hampton’s property crime rate is particularly high, at 25 per one thousand population, indicating a higher risk compared to other American communities of all sizesโโ.
- Crime Rate: 28 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 348
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 40
4. Lynchburg: Safety in the Hill City
In Lynchburg, Virginia, the crime rate is higher than the national average by 40%, with 25 crimes per one thousand residents. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime is 1 in 40.
Compared to other communities of similar size, Lynchburg’s crime rate is around the average. The rate of violent crime is higher than in most American communities, with a 1 in 238 chance of becoming a victim as noted by the Best Places. Property crime occurs at a rate of 21 per one thousand population, indicating a higher chance of becoming a victim of property crimes compared to other communities of all sizes in the U.S.โโ.
- Crime Rate: 25 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 238
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 48
3. Waynesboro: Understanding Risks in a Historic Setting
In Waynesboro, Virginia, the crime rate is considerably higher than the national average, with 21 crimes per one thousand residents. The likelihood of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Waynesboro is 1 in 49. The city has a higher crime rate than 87% of Virginia’s cities and towns.
My neighbor, who grew up in Waynesboro, recalls her parents always emphasizing the importance of home security systems, a response to the local crime scenario. For violent crime, the chance of becoming a victim is 1 in 403, with a rate of 2 per one thousand inhabitants. Property crime occurs at a rate of 18 per one thousand population, giving residents a 1 in 55 chance of becoming a victimโโ according to FBI Table of Crime Reports.
- Crime Rate: 21 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 403
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 55
2. Martinsville: A Closer Look at Safety Concerns
In Martinsville, Virginia, the crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, with 28 crimes per one thousand residents. Residents have a 1 in 36 chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime. Martinsville’s crime rate is higher than 93% of the state’s cities and towns according to the official FBI reports. My granny once visited Martinsville for a family reunion.
She loved the small-town charm but had a surprising encounter. While at a local park, she witnessed a minor theft. It was a quick and quiet incident, but it left an impression on her. The likelihood of becoming a victim of violent crime is 1 in 229, and for property crime, it’s 1 in 43. Martinsville’s property crime rate is particularly high, at 23 per 1,000 population, indicating a higher risk compared to other American communities of all sizesโโ.
- Crime Rate: 28 per 1,000 residents
- Chance of Violent Crime: 1 in 229
- Chance of Property Crime: 1 in 43
1. Roanoke: Challenges in Virginia’s Riskiest City
