25 Most Dangerous Cities in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is famous for its stunning scenery and quaint towns, but it’s important to recognize that some areas deal with significant crime issues. While many see it as one of the safest states in the U.S., certain cities reveal a darker side. In this article, we will dive into the 25 most dangerous cities in New Hampshire. You’ll discover unique challenges faced by these communities and a clearer picture of what safety looks like in the Granite State.

1. Manchester

High angle view of the downtown area in Manchester — An aerial perspective that captures the urban landscape of Manchester.

As the largest city in New Hampshire, Manchester has seen a rise in crime, particularly property crimes and assaults. In recent years, police data has revealed that the city reported around 2,000 property crimes in a year, emphasizing areas that are struggling with drug-related offenses. The local government has initiated community policing programs to strengthen connections between law enforcement and citizens, aiming to improve safety outcomes for everyone.

2. Nashua

Eye-level view of Nashua's riverfront park — A scenic view of Nashua’s riverfront, a focal point for community events.

Nashua, with its historical roots, isn’t immune to rising crime rates, particularly in theft and vandalism incidents. Data shows that in one recent year, Nashua experienced a 15% increase in reported thefts compared to the previous year. Despite this, community programs continue to grow, such as outreach initiatives by the police department that emphasize engagement with residents. This emphasis on teamwork has helped to build a more secure environment.

3. Concord

Eye-level view of the New Hampshire State House in Concord — A prominent perspective of Concord’s State House, symbolizing civic engagement.

Concord, the state capital, faces challenges common in small cities, including rising drug offenses. The city reported a notable uptick in drug-related crimes, with a 20% increase in opioid-related incidents last year. Concord’s initiatives focus on community prevention programs, getting residents involved in neighborhood watch groups to build safety together through awareness and education.

4. Rochester

Close-up view of Rochester's historic downtown buildings — A detailed view of Rochester’s architectural beauty, highlighting its historic structures.

Once booming as a textile mill city, Rochester now grapples with social issues leading to crime. The crime rate in Rochester includes alarming figures, such as an increased number of property crimes, contributing to the community’s concerns about safety. Officials are embarking on revitalization efforts and town hall meetings to re-establish community trust and safety.

5. Portsmouth

High angle view of Portsmouth’s waterfront area — An expansive view showcasing Portsmouth’s bustling harbor and waterfront activity.

Portsmouth attracts many visitors due to its cultural significance, but it also experiences theft and petty crimes during peak seasons. In the last tourist season, authorities reported a 10% rise in thefts around the waterfront. To counter this, the city has ramped up patrols to foster a safer atmosphere, making sure locals and visitors alike can enjoy everything Portsmouth has to offer without fear.

6. Claremont

Eye-level view of Claremont’s riverbank park — A tranquil scene of Claremont’s peaceful riverside, offering a blend of nature and community.

Claremont continues to encounter issues linked to its industrial past, notably an increase in drug-related incidents. With statistics indicating a rise of over 25% in drug-related arrests over the last two years, local leaders are striving to close the gap through various social programs aimed at prevention and education, directly targeting the root causes of crime.

7. Laconia

Wide angle view of Laconia's downtown area — A panoramic view of Laconia’s vibrant downtown during evening activities.

Often celebrated for its beautiful lakes, Laconia faces challenges with substance abuse and occasional violent incidents. Reports indicate that drug overdoses peaked at 30% higher than the previous year, prompting the city to implement multi-pronged prevention efforts focused on education and community involvement.

8. Lebanon

Eye-level view of Lebanon's public park during summer — A bright summer day at Lebanon’s park, highlighting community interactions.

While Lebanon features a mix of urban and rural life, crime creeps in, particularly with drug offenses and property crimes. The police department encourages community vigilance by hosting regular safety programs, enabling residents to report crime and work in partnership with law enforcement to safeguard the area.

9. Nashua

High angle view of the river in Nashua's city center — A breathtaking view of the river running through Nashua, showcasing the beauty and complexity of urban life.

Nashua reappears in our conversation due to its ongoing struggles with crime—a testament to its complex urban landscape. With the diverse demographics and proximity to larger cities, the local police department is focusing on community engagement to counteract negative trends in safety.

10. Somersworth

Close-up view of city square in Somersworth — A close view capturing the heart of Somersworth’s downtown area.

Somersworth bears the marks of an evolving economy that’s impacting crime rates. Over the last year, property crimes have spiked, leading to efforts from local leaders to enhance community trust through various outreach initiatives—which aim to bridge the gap between enforcement and the community.

11. Tilton

Eye-level view of Tilton’s scenic lakeside — An inviting view of Tilton’s lakeside offering a serene natural environment.

Tilton, though surrounded by scenic beauty, is experiencing growth-related crime issues. Property crimes are a concern, and city officials are pushing for neighborhood involvement as a means of strengthening public safety. Through public events, the town aims to engage residents in looking out for one another.

12. Berlin

High angle view of Berlin's downtown environment — A broad view capturing the historical essence of Berlin as a small city.

Berlin has seen its share of economic shifts that have contributed to a rising crime rate, specifically in terms of property crimes. Local officials are working to improve conditions through educational and community resilience-building initiatives, which are vital for restoring safety and trust in the community.

13. Goffstown

Eye-level view of Goffstown’s local park in autumn — An autumnal view of Goffstown’s park showcasing vibrant foliage.

Goffstown’s recent uptick in vandalism and petty theft has raised alarms among residents. As a reaction, local initiatives are underway to create better communication between law enforcement and the public, enhancing efforts for swift reporting of suspicious activities to maintain safety.

14. Merrimack

Close-up view of Merrimack's local waterways — A close perspective of Merrimack’s tranquil waterways under a clear sky.

Merrimack provides a suburban environment, but crime rates have fluctuated, especially concerning theft and vehicle crimes. Available statistics reveal a 12% rise in car break-ins last year, prompting collaborative crime prevention campaigns involving residents to safeguard their community.

15. Littleton

Eye-level view of Littleton’s charming small-town streets — A picturesque view of Littleton’s quaint streets lined with shops.

Considered a serene destination, Littleton still faces the reality of petty thefts. Local government encourages community engagement through clubs and meetings, focused on collaborating to address safety challenges and supporting a close-knit environment.

16. Derry

High angle view of Derry’s town square — A dynamic view of Derry’s town square showing local business activities.

Derry represents a blend of suburban and urban influences, which brings along property crime challenges. The city has seen crime spikes and is prioritizing outreach efforts through community meetings that empower residents to stay proactive in their safety standards.

17. Wyndham

Eye-level view of Wyndham's vast green spaces — A serene view of Wyndham’s green spaces inviting outdoor activities.

Although Wyndham is known for affluence, some neighborhoods face crimes like burglary. Recent data indicates a rise in home thefts, prompting community partnerships focused on crime prevention, including neighborhood watch programs that educate residents on safety measures.

18. Franklin

Close-up view of Franklin’s historical architecture — A close look at Franklin’s historic buildings reflecting its rich past.

Franklin’s charm is undercut by pressing safety issues, particularly drug abuse and domestic violence. Ongoing educational campaigns aim to involve the community in tackling these problems while fostering collaborative efforts between agencies and residents to restore safety.

19. Wolfeboro

High angle view of Wolfeboro’s picturesque lakeside — A breathtaking wide view of Wolfeboro’s lakeside, inviting visitors into nature.

Wolfeboro, known as the “Oldest Summer Resort in America,” faces crime challenges, especially during tourist season. Petty thefts surged by 18% during peak periods last summer, resulting in safety campaigns that inform residents and visitors to be aware and vigilant.

20. Salem

Eye-level view of Salem’s bustling business district — An engaging view of Salem’s busy business district brimming with life.

Salem’s attractions do not mask its underlying issues with property crimes. The shifting population dynamics, increasing by about 5% in recent years, contribute to a rise in crime. Local campaigns focus on encouraging vigilant practices, fostering community-centered responses to safety challenges.

21. Londonderry

Close-up view of Londonderry’s rural landscapes — A picturesque look at Londonderry’s rural landscapes showcasing open fields.

Londonderry, mostly suburban, has problematic crime rates, particularly related to vehicular theft and trespassing. Recent efforts encourage neighborhood action and awareness campaigns, empowering residents to take charge of their safety standards together.

22. Hooksett

High angle view of Hooksett's shopping area — An aerial perspective showing Hooksett’s busy shopping area.

Hooksett combines rural beauty with suburban challenges, facing rising issues around petty theft and vandalism. Local initiatives focus on creating trust among community members, significantly increasing collaboration between police and residents to foster a secure environment.

23. Jaffrey

Eye-level view of Jaffrey's scenic downtown — A serene view capturing Jaffrey’s downtown storefronts and charming atmosphere.

Though Jaffrey boasts charm, safety discussions have gained ground due to increased petty crimes during community events. Local leadership focuses on public forums and public events to encourage relationships between the community and law enforcement, working on strategies to enhance safety.

24. Sunapee

High angle view of Sunapee's recreational areas — An expansive view of Sunapee’s recreational areas, illustrating its outdoor appeal.

Sunapee’s outdoor focus also brings property crime concerns. Local programs promote outdoor safety awareness for both residents and visitors, collaborating with recreational stakeholders to reinforce security during peak times.

25. Hinsdale

Eye-level view of Hinsdale's community center — A welcoming view of Hinsdale’s community center that promotes local engagement.

Hinsdale may seem peaceful, but rising crime rates, especially in the evenings, raise concerns. The community focuses on development through workshops, aiming to build confidence in safety while fostering dialogue and collaborative strategies with residents.

Understanding Safety in New Hampshire

The reality of safety in New Hampshire’s cities highlights crucial issues that residents face. While designated as one of the safest states, cities like Manchester, Nashua, and Concord show that challenges remain. Ongoing collaboration and engagement between residents and law enforcement are paramount in addressing these concerns effectively.

The insights shared throughout this exploration of New Hampshire’s most perilous cities reveal not only the challenges but also the proactive efforts underway to combat them. It is essential for both residents and visitors to stay informed and engaged to create safer and more secure communities for all. Embracing this knowledge can strengthen community ties and foster resilience amid challenges, ensuring that the beauty and charm of New Hampshire remain intact for generations to come.

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