Springfield Massachusetts Tops 2026 Most Dangerous Massachusetts Cities

What are the most dangerous cities in Massachusetts? Springfield tops our list, but nine other cities made our list. Massachusetts may be known for its rich history, charming coastal towns, and top-tier universities, but like every state, it has areas that experience higher levels of crime. Understanding where these trouble spots are can help residents and newcomers make safer decisions about where to live, work, or visit.

This study is a part of our full study for the most dangerous cities in the United States.

In this report, we take a closer look at the most dangerous cities in Massachusetts based on recent crime data. Our analysis includes violent and property crimes to give you a balanced look at each location’s overall safety profile.

What Is the Most Common Crime in Massachusetts?

Across the Bay State, property crime remains the most common offense, with theft and burglary accounting for the majority of reported incidents. According to the most recent FBI and local police data, property crime rates are roughly 20% below the national average, but violent crime is higher than expected in some densely populated areas.

Cities with larger populations and higher poverty rates tend to experience more frequent incidents of assault, robbery, and burglary. Meanwhile, suburban and coastal towns often report lower crime numbers but may still face isolated spikes in thefts or vehicle break-ins.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Massachusetts

1. Springfield

Often topping lists for crime rates, Springfield continues to face challenges with both violent and property crimes. The city’s violent crime rate is roughly three times the state average, with aggravated assaults and robberies being the most common. However, Springfield has been investing in community policing programs and youth outreach to reduce repeat offenses.

2. Holyoke

Known for its historic mills and cultural diversity, Holyoke also has one of the highest crime rates in western Massachusetts. Drug-related incidents and property thefts remain key concerns, though local revitalization efforts and economic development programs are helping reduce long-term crime trends.

3. Brockton

Nicknamed “The City of Champions,” Brockton has a proud history — but it also struggles with higher-than-average violent crime. Assault and domestic violence are primary issues, and the city’s police department has expanded community partnerships to strengthen safety and rebuild trust.

4. Worcester

As Massachusetts’ second-largest city, Worcester experiences many of the same urban issues seen in larger metro areas. While the overall crime rate is moderate, certain neighborhoods report higher levels of burglary and assault. Worcester’s downtown revitalization and technology growth have brought improvements, but safety remains a focus for residents.

5. Lynn

Lynn sits just north of Boston and has a long-standing reputation for higher crime, especially in property-related offenses like auto theft and break-ins. However, recent data suggests improvement, thanks to increased patrols, better lighting in public spaces, and new youth-centered initiatives.

6. New Bedford

A historic fishing port, New Bedford has battled persistent issues with drug activity and theft. The city’s violent crime rate is nearly double the state average, though recent revitalization projects in the downtown area and along the waterfront are helping improve safety perceptions and economic opportunity.

7. Fall River

Fall River has seen rising property crime over the past few years, particularly in residential theft and vandalism cases. Local officials are focusing on community redevelopment, surveillance expansion, and social programs to address the root causes of recurring offenses.

8. Boston

While Boston is one of the safest major cities in the U.S. overall, its size means higher absolute crime numbers. Certain neighborhoods, such as Dorchester and Roxbury, report more violent incidents than others. Still, Boston’s police-community relations and data-driven safety initiatives have made measurable progress in recent years.

9. Chicopee

Located near Springfield, Chicopee experiences moderate levels of violent and property crimes, influenced by its proximity to larger urban areas. Break-ins, car thefts, and vandalism are common, though crime prevention programs have successfully lowered juvenile offenses in recent years.

10. Lawrence

Lawrence has a long history as a manufacturing hub, but poverty and economic hardship have contributed to one of the highest crime rates per capita in the state. The city continues to focus on rehabilitation programs, youth engagement, and small business investment to create safer community spaces.

How We Determine the Most Dangerous City in Massachusetts

Our rankings are based on an analysis of FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data, Massachusetts state police records, and local law enforcement statistics. We evaluated each city using the following metrics:

  • Violent crime rate per 100,000 residents (murder, assault, robbery, rape)
  • Property crime rate per 100,000 residents (burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft)
  • Population density and socioeconomic factors
  • Recent trends over the last three reporting years

This methodology provides a well-rounded view of where risks are highest and which areas show improvement over time.

How to Stay Safe in the Most Dangerous Cities

Whether you live in one of these cities or are just visiting, there are practical ways to protect yourself and your property:

  • Invest in a home security system. Home security systems can kelp keep you, your family, and belongings safe. Modern smart systems offer remote monitoring, doorbell cameras, and motion sensors.
  • Stay alert in unfamiliar areas. Avoid poorly lit streets, especially late at night. Make sure areas on your property are well lighted. You can use outdoor cameras to monitor your home and property.
  • Secure your vehicle. Always lock your doors, remove valuables, and park in well-lit areas.
  • Join community watch groups. Neighborhood collaboration can deter crime and strengthen relationships with local police.
  • Stay informed. Follow local police departments and city alerts to track recent incidents in your area.

For homeowners, incorporating security measures such as cameras and alarm systems can also lower insurance costs while providing peace of mind.

FAQs

What city in Massachusetts has the highest crime rate?
Springfield consistently ranks as the most dangerous city in Massachusetts due to its higher violent crime rate compared to other cities in the state.

Is Boston a dangerous city?
Boston’s crime rate is higher than the state average but significantly lower than many other major U.S. cities. Most of the city is considered safe, with crime concentrated in specific neighborhoods.

What city in Massachusetts is the safest?
Communities like Wayland, Duxbury, and Weston regularly rank among the safest places to live, with crime rates far below state and national averages.

How does Massachusetts compare to other states?
Massachusetts has one of the lowest overall crime rates in the nation, particularly for property crime. Violent crime, however, varies widely from city to city.

Conclusion

While Massachusetts remains one of the safest states in the country overall, crime is not evenly distributed. Cities like Springfield, Holyoke, and Brockton continue to face higher crime rates due to complex social and economic challenges, while smaller suburban communities maintain some of the lowest crime figures in New England.

Understanding where these risks exist — and taking proactive steps like installing security systems or participating in community programs — can help keep you and your loved ones safe wherever you call home.

Additional Massachusetts Resources

Looking for more resources to help you stay safe and informed? We have a library of articles dedicated to Massachusetts home security, check them out below.