This City Has Been Named the Most Dangerous City to live in Pennsylvania

Most Dangerous City to live in Pennsylvania: The crime index measures the rate of crimes per 1,000 residents in a neighborhood or city. It can vary depending on the region’s size and includes factors like violent crime, property crime, and motor vehicle theft.

While many people believe that Philadelphia or one of its suburbs is the most dangerous city in Pennsylvania, the actual most dangerous city, according to the crime index data, is located near Pittsburgh.

For years, McKees Rocks has held the title of the most dangerous city in Pennsylvania. Read on to discover more about this town and what life is like in Pennsylvania’s most dangerous city.

History

In its early history, McKees Rocks was inhabited by Native American tribes, with the Adena Culture constructing a significant earthwork mound, which served as a burial site. This mound, still present today, is the largest of its kind in the state. Subsequently, the Hopewell culture expanded on the Adena mound for their own burials, uncovering the remains of 33 individuals during archaeological excavations.

In the mid-1700s, traders and explorers settled in the town, focusing on mining steel and iron. The town experienced its peak population in the early 1900s, with over 17,000 residents in 1940. Presently, the incorporated borough is home to only around 6,000 people.

McKees Rocks has a dark history, marked by violent incidents. During the 1920s, residents and law enforcement discovered dismembered bodies, and in 1940, the bodies of three decapitated individuals were found at the train station. Some believe these gruesome acts may have been connected to similar crimes in Cleveland, but no conclusive evidence or suspects were identified.

Crime Index

McKees Rocks has an alarmingly high crime index for its small size, consistently ranking as one of the most dangerous cities in Pennsylvania due to its rates of violent and property crimes.

Based on 2022 data, there were 106 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, resulting in a crime rate of 18%. Property crime is even more prevalent, with 262 property crimes per 1,000 residents, leading to a crime rate of 44.92%. According to Neighborhood Scout, McKees Rocks is safer than only 1% of U.S. neighborhoods, with the most dangerous areas being Borough Center and McKees Rocks East.

In Pennsylvania, the average likelihood of being a victim of violent crime is one in 196, but in McKees Rocks, it rises significantly to one in 55. This surpasses the national average. While the national median for violent crimes per 1,000 residents is four, McKees Rocks has an astonishing 18.

Considering the area’s small size, there are 329 reported crimes per square mile, compared to Pennsylvania’s 46 and the national median of approximately 27 crimes per square mile. Despite comprising less than 1% of Allegheny County’s population, the city accounts for 10% of homicides.

Nearby Stowe Township has taken measures to combat gun violence, employing more full-time police officers and installing public surveillance cameras.

Poverty Rate

Although the cost of living in McKees Rocks is lower than the national average, the town is experiencing decline due to a lack of job opportunities and rising crime rates. The poverty rate in McKees Rocks significantly exceeds both the state and national averages. In Pennsylvania, the poverty rate stands at 12.1%, while the national average hovers around 11.6%. In McKees Rocks, a staggering 30.7% of the already small population lives in poverty.

Average Wages

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in 2021 and 2022 was just $32,800, nearly $40,000 below the national median of $70,784. The per capita income in the last 12 months was $22,625, significantly lower than the state and national figures of $64,370 and $61,738, respectively.

The town has a history of labor disputes, with the McKees Rocks Strike in 1909 being a significant event. As industrial opportunities dwindled in the 1980s, the population started to decline, with no substantial job opportunities emerging since then.

Living in McKees Rocks

McKees Rocks, located along the banks of the Ohio River, offers activities such as visiting historical landmarks, enjoying the local theater, and dining at one of the town’s few restaurants.

The McKees Rocks Bridge, constructed in 1931, is the longest bridge in Allegheny County, historically serving as a refuge during floods and a base for World War II troops.

The Roxian Theater, built in 1929, is a live music venue that hosts various musical acts and is available for weddings, parties, and business meetings.

Interestingly, McKees Rocks has been home to notable individuals such as Billy Mays, John Kasich, and Damar Hamlin. The late mystery author K. C. Constantine was born and raised in McKees Rocks, using it as inspiration for many of his crime novels.

Despite being Pennsylvania’s most dangerous city, residents appreciate their township. They highlight the excellent school district and proximity to Pittsburgh, just a 10-minute drive away. Neighbors are known for their kindness and willingness to help one another. Most families in the town have multiple generations residing there, fostering a strong sense of community. Residents acknowledge the violence but hope for a safer future.

Other Dangerous Cities in Pennsylvania

While McKees Rocks tops the list as the most dangerous city in Pennsylvania, several other small towns with high crime indexes closely follow.

Would You Live in the Most Dangerous City in Pennsylvania?

Living in McKees Rocks comes with a one in 55 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime. The town’s population has steadily declined since 1980 due to the lack of new job opportunities. However, if you are drawn to a small town with a rich history, you might consider exploring the most dangerous city in Pennsylvania.