St. Louis is a vibrant city located in the state of Missouri, in the central United States. As of 2021, the estimated population of St. Louis is approximately 300,000 people. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and a plethora of entertainment options. However, like many urban areas, St. Louis also has its share of crime and safety concerns.
Crime Rates in St. Louis
St. Louis has a reputation for having one of the highest crime rates in the United States. According to the latest crime statistics, St. Louis has a crime rate of 86.3 per 1,000 residents, which is nearly four times higher than the national average. Additionally, the city has one of the highest murder rates in the country. In 2020, St. Louis had 262 homicides, which equates to a rate of 87.2 per 100,000 people.
History of Crime in St. Louis
St. Louis has a long history of crime dating back to the early 20th century. During the Prohibition era, the city became known as a hub for bootlegging and organized crime. The infamous gangster Al Capone was known to have a strong presence in St. Louis during this time. The city continued to struggle with crime throughout the 20th century, with high rates of drug-related crimes, gang violence, and property crime.
Dangerous Areas to Avoid
There are certain areas in St. Louis that are considered to be more dangerous than others. North St. Louis is known for its high crime rates and should be avoided, particularly at night. Areas around East St. Louis, Illinois, which is across the Mississippi River from St. Louis, are also considered to be high-risk areas. Visitors should also exercise caution when traveling on public transportation, particularly the MetroLink light rail system, which has had issues with crime.
Safe Times of the Day to be Out
The safest times to be out in St. Louis are during the day, particularly in well-lit and heavily trafficked areas. Downtown St. Louis is generally considered to be safe during the daytime, as are many of the city's popular tourist attractions. However, visitors should still exercise caution and remain aware of their surroundings, particularly when walking alone or in unfamiliar areas.
Other Safety Advice
To stay safe in St. Louis, it is recommended that visitors take the following precautions:
1. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, particularly in high-crime areas.
2. Use a GPS or map to avoid getting lost, particularly in areas that are unfamiliar.
3. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, particularly when walking alone or in secluded areas.
4. Do not leave valuables visible in your car, as this may attract thieves.
5. Keep car doors locked and windows rolled up when driving through high-crime areas.
6. Use a reputable taxi or ride-sharing service when traveling at night.
7. Avoid confrontations with strangers, particularly those who appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
8. Be cautious when using ATMs or making withdrawals at night.
Overall, St. Louis is a beautiful city with much to offer visitors, but it is important to be aware of the safety concerns that exist in certain areas. By taking the appropriate precautions and staying aware of your surroundings, visitors can enjoy all that the city has to offer while minimizing their risk of becoming a victim of crime.