Despite being located on the U.S.-Mexico border, the average homicide rate of 11 border cities at 4.4 per 100,000 is actually lower than the national average of 5.7, as per the latest FBI data. This shows that border communities are, contrary to common perceptions, quite safe when it comes to homicide rates. Notably, four of these cities reported no homicides at all in 2023, highlighting a trend towards stability in these areas.
While the 11 border cities recorded a slight increase in violent crime rates to 393.8 per 100,000, this figure remains above the national average. However, it's crucial to note that their combined violent crime rate is significantly lower than that of major cities like Chicago and Houston, indicating that perceptions of high crime in border areas may be misleading, particularly in comparison to larger urban centers.
Yuma, Arizona, stands out with a homicide rate of 11 per 100,000 and is reported to have the highest violent crime rate (474.9) among the border cities, showcasing the variability in crime rates even within border communities. This data spotlights the complex nature of crime statistics in the region where not all communities experience similar rates of violence.
El Paso continues to be recognized as one of the safest cities of its size in the U.S., boasting a low homicide rate of 3.8 and a violent crime rate of 350.8. This positioning reflects the unique demographic composition and socio-economic factors at play in border cities, challenging the stereotype that these areas are inherently dangerous.
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