Recently, we wrote about the 10 safest places in Utah to live. Today, we’ll look at the most dangerous towns in Utah.

Take the word "dangerous" with a grain of salt, fellow Utahns. Utah’s overall violent crime rate is really, really low. We’re ranked 45th in the nation, with only 5,876 violent crimes reported in 2012. That total includes every murder, nonnegligent manslaughter, robbery, and aggravated assault reported throughout the entire state in 2012. Compare that with even our fairly well-ranked neighbor, Colorado, which had 16,023 violent crimes the same year, and we look pretty darn good.

In order to pinpoint the most dangerous places in Utah, we used the FBI’s most recent Uniform Crime Report from 2012 for this list and included only Utah cities with populations of at least 10,000 residents.

Update: The cities in this list have changed considerably since 2012. Note individual updates where applicable for each city.

1. South Salt Lake City: Population 24,340

8.54 violent crimes per thousand residents. South Salt Lake is home to lots of businesses and Salt Lake Community College’s South Campus. With 208 violent crimes reported and only 24,340 residents, it had the highest per capita violent crime rate.

2. Salt Lake City: Population 192,465

6.75 violent crimes per thousand residents. Salt Lake City is the state’s largest city, so it’s not surprising that it’s high on this list. Before you start packing your bag, SLC residents, it’s important to realize that you still live in one of the safest states in the nation, with a low overall Utah crime rate.

3. West Valley City: Population 133,725

4.47 violent crimes per thousand residents. West Valley is home to lots of great businesses and people. The city’s crime rate is high for Utah, but low for the rest of the nation. Update: West Valley City has improved since the data when this list was created, moving it to

4. Ogden: Population 85,083

4.14 violent crimes per thousand residents. You’ll find Weber State University, a recently renovated 25th Street and some incredible high school sports in Ogden. And while it may be considered one of the most dangerous places in Utah, trust us when we say it's also one of the most charming. Update: West Valley City has improved since the data when this list was created, moving it to #6 for 2022.

5. Brigham City: Population 18,255

3.06 violent crimes per thousand residents. This city is somewhat of an outlier. 56 violent crimes were reported in Brigham City during 2012, and with its relatively small population of only 18,255, that shot its rate up quite a bit. The fairly rural city enjoys plenty of great agriculture (hello, peaches!) and a vibrant arts, business and retail scene. Plus, you'll find some delicious burgers and shakes in this town. Update: Brigham City's statistics have since improved to the point that is no longer included in the top ten list for the most dangerous places in Utah. West Valley took the #5 spot for 2022.

6. Tooele: Population 19,509

2.94 violent crimes per thousand residents. One of our most often mis-pronounced cities made this list. Tooele offers some great nearby recreation opportunities, including the beautiful Oquirrh mountains, and Miller Motor Sports Park. While you're there, be sure to check out this old-fashioned drive-in. Update: West Valley City has improved since the data when this list was created, moving it to #10 for 2022.

7. Cedar City: Population 29,608

2.56 violent crimes per thousand residents. I personally think the Utah Shakespeare Festival is one of the very best things about Cedar City, but I do know that some people greatly dislike Shakespeare’s prose. Only 76 violent crimes were reported during 2012 -- perhaps some were Hamlet-related? Also, if you happen to be visiting, you'll want to book a stay at this charming mountain cabin. Update: Cedar City's statistics have since improved to the point that is no longer included in the top ten list for the most dangerous places in Utah. Moab took the #7 spot for 2022.

8. St. George: Population 75,780

2.04 violent crimes per thousand residents. St. George is a gorgeous community, with a diverse population of families, singletons and retirees. Some of the 155 reported violent crimes may have been related to bad golf games...others to too much sun? Don't let the statistics deter you too much, as we've also found St. George to be one of the best family-friendly destinations in Utah. Update: St. George's statistics have since improved to the point that is no longer included in the top ten list for the most dangerous places in Utah. Riverdale took the #8 spot for 2022.

9. Washington: Population 19,509

1.94 violent crimes per thousand residents. Washington is right next door to its cousin, St. George, reporting 7th on the list. It’s a nice little community with good people. Don’t let this list fool you -- Washington only reported 38 violent crimes during 2012. Its overall rate was still high enough to put it on the list, but very, very low compared to other places. Update: Washington's statistics have since improved to the point that is no longer included in the top ten list for the most dangerous places in Utah. Park City took the #9 spot for 2022.

10. West Jordan: Population 107,103

1.85 violent crimes per thousand residents. West Jordan is suburban heaven with its retail, entertainment and family-centric activities. Its violent crime rate put it on the list, but considering that violent crime affects less than 2 people per thousand, it’s a pretty great place to raise a family. Update: West Jordan's statistics have since improved to the point that is no longer included in the top ten list for the most dangerous places in Utah. Tooele took the #10 spot for 2022.

We’ll say it one last time -- the cities on this list are still pretty safe, especially when compared to the rest of the country. Utah is a safe, fairly crime-free state -- no matter where you live. Does your experience indicate that these are the most dangerous towns in Utah? Be sure to tell us in the comments below.

And to end things on a positive note, be sure to check out our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Utah.