Is Cincinnati safe? This is a question that many people ask when considering moving to or visiting Cincinnati.
The answer, like most things in life, is complicated.
While Cincinnati is generally a safe city, there are some areas that you should avoid if you want to be extra cautious.
In this article, we will provide an honest guide to safety in Cincinnati.
We will cover everything from crime rates to transportation options.
So, whether you are thinking of moving to Cincinnati or are just planning a visit, make sure to read this article!
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Where is Cincinnati Ohio Anyways?
Before we dive into whether or not Cincinnati is safe, let’s answer a question that you might be wondering: where is Cincinnati Ohio?
Cincinnati is located in the southwestern corner of Ohio, right on the border of Kentucky.
It is about two hours from Columbus (the state capital) and about four hours from Chicago.
Cincinnati is a large city, with a population of over 300,000 people.
It is the third largest city in Ohio and the 27th largest city in the United States.
Now that you know where Cincinnati is located, let’s move on to discussing its safety.
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5 of The Most Safest Neighborhoods in In Cincinnati
Below is a list of the 5 safest neighborhoods in Cincinnati:
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is the safest neighborhood in Cincinnati and great for families.
Statistically, there are 13 crimes per 100 people here which makes it 60% below average compared to other neighborhoods within our city!
This calm atmosphere can be enjoyed with walkable shops or restaurants that offer something unique every time you visit them – like Original Hot Chicken & Fish Co., one of many popular restaurant options located on Shillito Ave near downtown activity centers like Over The Rhine (OTS).
Sayler Park
The Sayler Park neighborhood of Cincinnati is one among many that offer a great place to call home.
With 13 crimes per 100 people, this area also has some serious law-abiding fiber!
It’s where you’ll find history and small town charm – perfect for retirees or families looking enjoy both aspects in their leisure time while taking care off housework outside work hours
Mt. Lookout
Mt. Lookout is a neighborhood in Cincinnati, Ohio, known for its town square and historic Redmoor Building. It is considered one of Cincinnati’s safest neighborhoods, with 14 crimes per 100 people.
The neighborhood is situated 10-15 minutes from downtown Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine.
Mt. Lookout is a great place for families and young professionals alike, offering boutique shopping and restaurants as well as a variety of events throughout the year.
Visitors to the area can enjoy the Thursday night farmers market, an annual Easter egg hunt, and the 4th of July parade, just to name a few.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to call home or a vibrant community to raise a family, Mt. Lookout is sure to please.
Kennedy Heights
Kennedy Heights is a great suburban area for families who are looking for an affordable place to live. The neighborhood is very safe, with only 21 crimes per 100 people.
Daniel Drake Park is a great place to take the kids, with an overlook and playgrounds. The park is also a great place to take your dog for a walk.
The neighborhood is sandwiched between Pleasant Ridge and Silverton and is close to many schools and restaurants.
If you are looking for a suburban neighborhood that is safe and affordable, Kennedy Heights is the perfect place for you.
Mt. Adams
Mt. Adams is one of Cincinnati’s most desirable neighborhoods, and it’s easy to see why.
With a low crime rate and close proximity to Eden Park and the Cincinnati Art Museum, it’s the perfect place for young professionals and millennial residents.
The neighborhood is also home to a number of hip bars and restaurants, making it a great place to socialize or simply relax after a long day.
Whether you’re looking for a safe and friendly place to call home or simply want to enjoy all that Cincinnati has to offer, Mt. Adams is definitely the neighborhood for you.
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5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods to avoid in Cincinnati
Below is a list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Cincinnati:
English Woods
English Woods is Cincinnati’s most dangerous neighborhood. It has a violent crime rate of 1,351 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 6,884 per 100,000.
English Woods is adjacent to North Fairmount. The total crime rate for these two neighborhoods is over 230% above the national average.
The high crime rates in these neighborhoods are due to a number of factors, including poverty, poor educational resources, and lack of access to jobs and other opportunities.
In addition, these areas have high concentrations of gangs and drug activity.
As a result, residents of English Woods and North Fairmount face significant challenges in terms of safety and security.
However, there are also many community organizations and programs working to address these issues and improve the lives of residents in these neighborhoods.
South Fairmount
According to the latest data, South Fairmount is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city. With a violent crime rate of 1,332 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 6,787 per 100,000, the odds of becoming a victim are 1 in 13.
This is 226% higher than the national average. While the overall crime rate has been declining in recent years, South Fairmount remains an outlier.
There are many possible explanations for this, including poverty, lack of education, and unemployment.
However, one thing is certain: the residents of South Fairmount deserve to live in a safe and prosperous community.
With a concerted effort from government, business, and nonprofit organizations, it is possible to turn this situation around.
By investing in economic development and providing opportunities for social mobility, we can help create a brighter future for South Fairmount.
Sedamsville
Sedamsville is a small neighborhood on the west side of Cincinnati. It has a population of just over 2,000 people and an area of about 0.5 square miles.
The neighborhood has some of the highest crime rates in the city, with a violent crime rate of 1,210 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 6,158 per 100,000 people.
This is 196% above the national average for violent crime and 554% above the national average for property crime.
Over-the-Rhine
Over-the-Rhine, one of Cincinnati’s most historic neighborhoods, is located just north of the city’s central business district.
In recent years, the area has undergone an extensive revitalization, resulting in a decreased crime rate.
However, despite these improvements, the crime rate in Over-the-Rhine is still 89% higher than the national average.
The property crime rate in the neighborhood is 3,933 per 100,000 residents, and the violent crime rate is 772 per 100,000 residents.
While the area has made significant progress in reducing crime, it is clear that there is still more work to be done.
West End
West End is one of the high crime neighborhoods in Cincinnati. In the 1950s, this neighborhood was largely destroyed to build interstate 75 and it hasn’t completely recovered.
Northwest of downtown, West End has a violent crime rate of 1,245 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 6,342 per 100,000.
Despite these high rates of crime, West End is still home to many residents who are trying to make the best of their situation.
There are various community initiatives in place to try and improve the neighborhood, such as after-school programs and job training opportunities.
However, until the issues of poverty and violence are addressed, West End will continue to be one of the most dangerous areas in Cincinnati.
Top 3 Things to Know About Safety in Cincinnati
When moving to a new city, it is important to do your research and know what to expect in terms of safety. Here are three things to keep in mind about safety in Cincinnati:
1. The crime rate in Cincinnati is higher than the national average. However, this is largely due to property crimes such as burglary and theft. violent crime is relatively rare.
2. The city has a number of neighborhoods that are considered safe, and many residents feel comfortable walking around at night. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or dangerous areas.
3. Cincinnati has a number of programs and initiatives in place to help keep residents safe. For example, the city offers free home security assessments to help homeowners secure their property against burglaries. There are also a number of Neighborhood Watch groups that work with the police to keep an eye out for crime.
Common Crimes in Cincinnati
Violent Crimes
Violent crime is a serious problem in Cincinnati. In 2020, there were 2,725 reported instances of violent crime, including murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
The murder rate in Cincinnati is 18.9 per 100,000 people – nearly four times the national average of 5.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a dramatic increase in violent crime in the city, with police believing that the 10 p.m. alcohol curfew is one factor that contributes to gun violence.
Half of all serious crime in Cincinnati is concentrated in just ten of the city’s 53 neighborhoods.
This is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive solution. Law enforcement officials, community leaders, and city residents all have a role to play in making Cincinnati safer for everyone.
Property Crimes
Property crimes are non-violent crimes that involve the taking of someone’s property without their permission.
Types of property crimes include theft, larceny, and burglary. In 2020, there were 11,224 property crimes committed in Cincinnati.
This means that the average person in Cincinnati has a 1 in 22 chance of being a victim of some sort of property crime.
The most common types of property crimes in Cincinnati are burglary and theft. Many thefts happen near university campuses and the Central Business District where cars are often broken into and stolen.
To help prevent becoming a victim of a property crime, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take measures to protect your property, such as keeping valuables out of sight and locking your car doors.
What is the weather like in Cincinnati?
Cincinnati experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons and precipitation evenly distributed throughout the year.
Summers are typically hot and humid, with occasional droughts and heat waves.
The average July high is 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius), although temperatures often exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius).
Winters are cold, with an average December low of 21 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, but heavy snowstorms are rare.
Spring and fall are mild, with comfortable temperatures and moderate precipitation.
Overall, Cincinnati has a relatively moderate climate, although weather conditions can vary significantly from one year to the next.
7 Helpful Tips For Staying Safe in Cincinnati
Below are some tips to help you stay safe in Cincinnati:
1. Stay aware of your surroundings and be mindful of who is around you
Cincinnati is a great city with a lot to offer, but like all cities, it has its own unique Safety concerns.
It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and who is around you at all times.
If you are going to be out late at night, try to stick to well-lit, busy areas. And always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
Cincinnati also has a few high-crime areas that you should avoid, especially if you are alone or on foot.
If you must go into one of these areas, be extra cautious and stay alert.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in this beautiful city.
2. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas
As one of the largest cities in Ohio, Cincinnati is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. However, like all cities, it has its share of crime.
In order to stay safe, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling in unfamiliar areas.
One way to do this is to avoid walking alone in isolated areas. If you must walk alone, be sure to keep to well-lit, busy streets and remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
You can also download apps that allow you to share your location with friends or family members, so they can keep track of you during your travels.
3. Make sure your home is well-lit and locked up when you’re not there
Cincinnati can be a dangerous city if you’re not careful. There are a few simple things you can do to help keep yourself safe, though.
One of the most important is to make sure your home is well-lit and locked up when you’re not there.
This will help deter criminals from breaking in, and it will also make it easier for you to see if someone does try to enter your home.
Additionally, be sure to keep an eye on your surroundings when you’re out and about.
4. Keep your valuables hidden or locked away
No matter where you go, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take steps to protect yourself and your belongings.
This is especially true in large cities, where pickpockets and other thieves are always on the lookout for unsuspecting victims.
If you’re planning a trip to Cincinnati, here’s one tip that can help you stay safe: keep your valuables hidden or locked away.
This includes things like your wallet, passport, and any jewelry or electronics you might be carrying. By keeping them out of sight, you’ll make it much harder for thieves to target you.
In addition, be sure to keep an eye on your belongings at all times when you’re out in public.
5. Be cautious when using public transportation
public transportation can be a great way to get around the city, but it’s important to be cautious when using it.
There are a few things you can do to stay safe when taking public transportation in Cincinnati. First, be aware of your surroundings.
If you see something or someone that makes you feel uneasy, trust your gut and move to another area.
It’s also a good idea to travel in groups whenever possible. There is safety in numbers, and you’ll be less likely to be targeted if you’re not alone.
Finally, keep your valuables close to you and out of sight. Pickpockets often target busy areas, so keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
6. Don’t leave your drink unattended at bars or parties
Cincinnati is home to a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs to choose from. However, it’s important to stay safe while out enjoying the city. One tip for staying safe is to never leave your drink unattended. Unfortunately, there are some people who will take advantage of an unattended drink, adding drugs or alcohol to it in order to take advantage of the person. So, if you need to step away from your drink for any reason, finish it first or ask a friend to watch it for you.
7. Know the non-emergency numbers for CPD
As any Cincinnati resident knows, the city can be a dangerous place. With a high crime rate and a history of violence, it’s important to always be on the lookout for potential danger.
One way to stay safe is to know the non-emergency numbers for the Cincinnati Police Department.
By having this information on hand, you can quickly and easily get in touch with the authorities if you see something suspicious.
In addition, it’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the city’s emergency services and procedures.
By knowing what to do in case of an emergency, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe. So remember, when it comes to safety in Cincinnati, knowledge is power.
FAQs About Safety in Cincinnati
Below are some frequently asked questions about safety in Cincinnati.
Q: What is the crime rate in Cincinnati?
A: According to Neighborhood Scout, The crime rate in Cincinnati is one of the highest compared to all communities across America.
One’s chance of becoming a victim here is 22 times higher than those living elsewhere, making it quite dangerous especially considering how many people live within Ohio where nearly 97% have less severe criminal justice issues than ours does!
Q: What are some things I can do to stay safe in Cincinnati?
A: As we mentioned above, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take steps to protect yourself and your belongings.
This includes keeping your valuables hidden or locked away, being cautious when using public transportation, and not leaving your drink unattended at bars or parties.
Q: What is the best way to avoid crime in Cincinnati?
A: While there is no guaranteed way to avoid crime, there are some things you can do to lower your chances of becoming a victim.
As we mentioned, being aware of your surroundings is important. In addition, avoid walking or jogging alone at night, don’t flaunt your valuables in public, and be cautious when using public transportation.
Q: What should I do if I am the victim of a crime in Cincinnati?
A: If you are the victim of a crime, the best thing to do is to report it to the police immediately.
In addition, there are many victim assistance programs available in Cincinnati that can help you through the process of dealing with the crime and its aftermath.
Q: What is the best way to stay safe when traveling to Cincinnati?
A: When traveling to Cincinnati, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take steps to protect yourself and your belongings.
This includes keeping your valuables hidden or locked away, being cautious when using public transportation, and not leaving your drink unattended at bars or parties.
Q: What are some general safety tips for visitors to Cincinnati?
A: In addition to the above, there are a few general safety tips that visitors to Cincinnati should keep in mind.
First, be sure to familiarize yourself with the city before you go and know your way around. Secondly, don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
And finally, trust your gut – if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
Q: Are there any areas of Cincinnati that I should avoid?
A: There are a few areas of Cincinnati that are best avoided, particularly at night. These include Over-the-Rhine, downtown (near Fountain Square), and Eden Park.
In general, it’s best to stick to the well-lit, busy areas when you’re out and about.
Q: What should I do if I find myself in a dangerous situation?
A: If you find yourself in a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation, the best thing to do is to remove yourself from the situation as quickly and safely as possible.
If you can, call 911 or another emergency service for help. Otherwise, get to a safe place and contact the police or other authorities as soon as possible.
Q: What are some common scams in Cincinnati?
Unfortunately, there are a few common scams that target visitors to Cincinnati. These include the “lottery” scam, in which someone calls or approaches you claiming you’ve won a large sum of money.
Other scams include the “free vacation” scam, in which someone offers you a free trip or vacation if you just pay a small fee.
The “job offer” scam, is when someone offers you a high-paying job but asks for personal information or money upfront.
The “skimming” scam, in which thieves attach devices to ATMs that capture your card information when you use the machine, and the “bait and switch” scam, in which a business will advertise one price for a product or service but then try to charge you more once you’ve already made a purchase.
If you’re ever unsure about a situation or person, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and simply walk away.
Q: How can I stay safe while enjoying Cincinnati?
A: The best way to enjoy Cincinnati safely is to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
When you’re out and about, keep your belongings close to you and be aware of who is around you.
If you’ll be drinking, make sure you have a designated driver or plan to take a cab or Uber home.
And finally, if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to call 911 or another emergency service.
Cincinnati is a great city with plenty to see and do. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your visit is enjoyable and safe.
Q: Where is the Cincinnati USA Visitor Center?
The Visitor Center, located in the center of downtown Fountain Square, is where tourists and locals alike can discover about the region’s numerous activities for pleasure, dining, shopping, hotels, attractions, vacation rentals, and more.
Q: Who are the leading law enforcement agencies in Cincinnati?
The Cincinnati Police Department is the largest law enforcement agency in the city, followed by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. The University of Cincinnati also has its own police department that patrols the campus and surrounding areas.
Q: What are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Cincinnati?
Some of Cincinnati’s most popular tourist attractions include the Cincinnati Zoo, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and Great American Ball Park. Other popular attractions include the Cincinnati Museum Center, the Newport Aquarium, and Kings Island amusement park.
Q: What are some of the best places to eat in Cincinnati?
Cincinnati is home to a number of great restaurants, including Boca, Metropole, Orchids at Palm Court, and Primavista. For a more casual dining experience, check out Skyline Chili, LaRosa’s Pizza, or Gold Star Chili. And for a sweet treat, don’t miss Graeter’s Ice Cream!