Kentucky is a beautiful state with many attractions and natural wonders. However, like any other place, it also has its share of dangers and risks. Some areas are more prone to crime, accidents, or disasters than others. In this article, we will look at the 7 most dangerous places in Kentucky, based on data from the FBI, CDC, and other sources.
1. Louisville
Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky and the home of the famous Kentucky Derby. However, it is also the most dangerous city in the state, with a violent crime rate of 634.4 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Louisville also has a high rate of property crime, with 4,036.4 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Louisville are Park Hill, Russell, Portland, and Shawnee.
2. Paducah
Paducah is a small city in western Kentucky, known for its quilt museum and riverfront. However, it is also one of the most dangerous places in Kentucky, with a violent crime rate of 507.3 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Paducah also has a high rate of property crime, with 3,973.8 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Some of the most dangerous areas in Paducah are Fountain Avenue, Noble Park, and Husbands Road.
3. Mayfield
Mayfield is another small city in western Kentucky, located near the Tennessee border. It is one of the most dangerous places in Kentucky, with a violent crime rate of 472.5 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Mayfield also has a high rate of property crime, with 3,890.6 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Some of the most dangerous areas in Mayfield are South 9th Street, West Broadway, and East College Street.
4. Covington
Covington is a city in northern Kentucky, across the Ohio River from Cincinnati. It is one of the most dangerous places in Kentucky, with a violent crime rate of 467.8 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Covington also has a high rate of property crime, with 3,788.9 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Covington are Eastside, Austinburg, and Peaselburg.
5. Lexington
Lexington is the second-largest city in Kentucky and the home of the University of Kentucky. It is one of the most dangerous places in Kentucky, with a violent crime rate of 412.6 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Lexington also has a high rate of property crime, with 3,509.7 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Some of the most dangerous areas in Lexington are Cardinal Valley, Winburn, and Eastland Park.
6. Pikeville
Pikeville is a city in eastern Kentucky, in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. It is one of the most dangerous places in Kentucky, with a violent crime rate of 404.9 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Pikeville also has a high rate of property crime, with 3,499.1 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Some of the most dangerous areas in Pikeville are Cedar Hills, Scott Addition, and Island Creek.
7. Hazard
Hazard is a city in southeastern Kentucky, named after a Revolutionary War hero. It is one of the most dangerous places in Kentucky, with a violent crime rate of 400.7 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Hazard also has a high rate of property crime, with 3,477.9 per 100,000 residents in 2019. Some of the most dangerous areas in Hazard are Walkertown, Lothair, and Combs.
Conclusion
These are the 7 most dangerous places in Kentucky, according to the latest data available. However, this does not mean that these places are completely unsafe or that there are no good things about them. Every place has its pros and cons, and every person has their own preferences and experiences. The best way to stay safe and enjoy Kentucky is to be aware of the risks, take precautions, and respect the local culture and laws. Kentucky is a wonderful state with a lot to offer, and with some common sense and caution, you can have a great time exploring it.