Considering Rhode Island has a few of the safest cities in the entire country, it’s not a stretch to say life is pretty mellow and pleasant in the Ocean State. That being said, no place is entirely free from crime, and statistically, you’re more likely to see that in some of our cities than others. According to the most recent FBI data, these are the most dangerous cities in Rhode Island.

10. Johnston
Johnston, RI 02919, USA
JJBers / Flickr
At number 10 on our list of the most dangerous cities in Rhode Island is Johnston. Violent crime actually fell in Johnston between 2017-2018, and so did property crime. If this trend continues, they won't be on next year's list. Read more about Johnston.
9. West Warwick
West Warwick, RI 02893, USA
Wikimedia
West Warwick is just behind regular Warwick in crime rates, but you still have a 1 in 437 chance of being the victim of violence here. Learn more about West Warwick.
8. Warren
Warren, RI 02885, USA
Warren
Warren is a tiny town, and violence is pretty rare. But when property crime sits at a 1 in 91.2 chance of being the victim of theft or arson, it warrants a spot on the list. Check out more about Warren.
7. North Smithfield
North Smithfield, RI, USA
Wikipedia
North Smithfield comes in at number 7 on the list, as residents have a 1 in 959 chance of being the victim of a violent crime here. It is also the 5th most dangerous place in the state for property crime. Find out more about North Smithfield.
6. Cranston
Cranston, RI, USA
The Carouselambra Kid / Flickr
Number 6 on our list of dangerous places in Rhode Island is Cranston. Cranston is just 5 miles south of Providence, and it's the second most populated city in the state as well. Violence increased by a substantial amount from 2017 - 2018, but you still only have a 1 in 686 chance of being the victim of violence. Read more about Cranston.

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5. Central Falls
Central Falls, RI 02863, USA
cmh2315fl / Flickr
Central Falls has the smallest area of any city, but it also has the highest population density of anywhere in the state. Residents face a 1 in 232 chance of being the victim of a violent crime as of 2018. Learn more about Central Falls.
4. Newport
Newport, RI, USA
Jenna Rose Robbins / Flickr
Newport residents faced 1 in 41.4 chance of being the victim of theft or arson in 2018, which is actually a 10% drop from 2017. But it's also ranked 3rd most dangerous for property crimes. Check out more about Newport, Rhode Island.
3. Pawtucket
Pawtucket, RI, USA
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Pawtucket is the 3rd most dangerous city in Rhode Island, with residents having a 1 in 38.2 chance of being the victim of a property crime and a 1 in 223 chance of being the victim of violence. Find out more about Pawtucket.
2. Woonsocket
Woonsocket, RI 02895, USA
David Wilson / Flickr
Located near the Massachusetts border, Woonsocket comes in second for both property and violent crime. Residents of Woonsocket faced a 1 in 169 chance of being the victim of violence as of 2018. Read more about Woonsocket.
1. Providence
Providence, RI, USA
JJBers / Flickr
Our state capital unfortunately tops the list for Rhode Island's crime. It has the 2nd highest rate of violent crime and places 1st for its rate of property crime. While officially it is the most dangerous city in Rhode Island, Providence also has lots of great things to offer, as do all the towns on this list. Learn more about Providence.

These statistics change annually, and Rhode Island is a pretty safe state overall — so if you live in one of these places, don’t let these numbers concern you. Because the state is a safe one, even the most dangerous cities in Rhode Island are often excellent places to live.

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Most Dangerous Cities in Rhode Island

Danielle Schwartz | May 30, 2022

What is the most scenic town in Rhode Island?

If you love scenic towns in Rhode Island, you've come to the right place. You can take a road trip to see them all. One of the most scenic towns in Rhode Island is Wickford Village. This is the sweetest spot for gorgeous architecture, unique shopping options, and delicious food! You'll also get to feel like you're a part of a famous story. The Witches of Eastwick is based on this charming small town.

What is the creepiest place in Rhode Island?

Feeling in the mood for something spooky? Take this road trip to some of the scariest places in Rhode Island for some delicious thrills and chills! On your journey, you'll encounter ghosts in the town of Cumberland, the spirit of Edgar Allen Poe at the Providence Athenaeum, and a ghostly apparition of a murdered man from the 1800s at the Governor Sprague Mansion. Belcourt Castle is also known for plenty of mysterious paranormal occurrences. You will love this trip if you want to experience otherworldly phenomena. You'll come back feeling like you've visited the other side.

What is the oldest town in Rhode Island?

Not only is Wickford Village the oldest town in Rhode Island, but it is also the oldest colonial village in the United States! Located in North Kingstown, it was founded in the 1700s by Lodowick Updike. Wealthy residents of Newport hid out here in order to avoid the occupation of the British for a while. It saw great economic success after the conclusion of the war, and even though it is not a large city, it is still a lovely place to live in modern times.

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