The Most Dangerous Destinations To Avoid On Your Trip To Texas, According To Research

Planning to visit a new place can be daunting. However, if you know that you are going to an area that has been rated as dangerous, it can add an extra layer of stress that you can't shake off. But it's not as simple as labeling a city as safe or unsafe. There are several important factors to consider, such as the ratio of safe to dangerous neighborhoods, the most common types of crime, and the demographics of crime victims. In this article, we have listed several Texas locations rated poorly in terms of crime and overall safety. 

To avoid any trouble, it's best to steer clear of these areas. However, suppose you're feeling adventurous and willing to take the risk. In that case, we have researched and reviewed appropriate databases to understand why these cities are considered some of the most dangerous places in Texas, and we have included some tips for staying safe when visiting these destinations. We researched the FBI database, crime reporting websites, and news sites to get a good idea of what makes these places merit their ratings.

Pasadena offers a vibrant array of attractions, but it's essential to recognize that crime levels vary significantly between neighborhoods. Here in Pasadena, a crime is committed on average every hour and 34 minutes, according to Crime Grade, with the northeast area being generally regarded as the safest. However, the website also notes that the likelihood of being a victim of crime ranges from 1 in 21 in southern neighborhoods to 1 in 37 in the northeast. Interpreting these statistics requires careful consideration, as different crime types may have varying rates and factors such as causes.

If it's considered dangerous, why do people visit Pasadena? Like every city, it has its good and bad neighborhoods, but most stop by Pasadena to check out its vibrant arts scene, dine at its eclectic eateries, and take in the natural beauty of its parks and gardens. To ensure a safe visit, it's advisable to stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially after dark. Avoid flaunting valuables, and be mindful of your surroundings at all times. Consider utilizing reputable transportation services and staying in accommodations with reasonable security measures in place. By staying informed and exercising caution, you can enjoy your trip to this destination, but if it's one you don't have to visit, it might be wise to keep it off your travel list.

Corpus Christi, a coastal city known for its beautiful marine life and sandy islands, has its reasons for being on many traveler's beach bucket lists in Texas. However, despite its apparent allure, the city has some challenges that visitors should be aware of before planning a trip. Like most of the destinations listed in this article, Corpus Christi unfortunately has a high report of both violent and property crimes, surpassing the average across the nation. Corpus Christi also ranks among the worst places in the country concerning highway and street safety. This is due to the need for expansion and reconstruction of bridges and roads, which has become a significant headache for residents and visitors, driven by population growth.

According to City Data, Corpus Christi has a crime rate higher than 94% of American cities. While the suburbs offer relative safety, travelers should exercise caution when venturing into the downtown and inner city areas. Despite these challenges, travelers still go to Corpus Christi for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and numerous attractions. However, travelers must stay informed about safety concerns and take necessary precautions when visiting Corpus Christi. Altogether, you might be better off leaving it off your list of places to visit.

The city of Killeen boasts several attractive features that make it an ideal place for families to live. It has a robust education system, low crime rates in some areas, and a variety of amenities suitable for people of all ages. However, Crime Grade reports that despite these benefits, Killeen still experiences higher rates of violent and property crimes compared to the national average. Residents of Killeen need to be cautious and take extra precautions to ensure their personal safety and property security.

One of the primary concerns in Killeen is property crimes. The lack of consistent police presence is also a safety issue. Unfortunately, Killeen receives a D+ grade on Crime Grade's violent crime map, indicating higher-than-average rates compared to other US cities. The city is in the 25th percentile for safety, emphasizing the importance of residents taking extra precautions to ensure their safety and property security. These numbers make Killeen a place that might be better off leaving off your travel destination plans unless you need to visit.

Texarkana is a city in the east of Texas with a crime rate of 33 incidents per 1,000 residents, Neighborhood Scout reports, making it one of the highest in America. The likelihood of falling victim to either violent or property crime in Texarkana is one in 30, which is higher than more than 92% of the communities in Texas of similar size. Comparing Texarkana to communities of similar size reveals elevated combined violent and property crime rates. Although most violent offenses are domestic, Crime Grade's maps highlight higher rates on the south side, especially in the New Boston neighborhood and southward on the Texas side. Property crime is also a concern, with theft being the most common offense.

Despite offering attractive spots like the 1894 City Market, safety precautions are advised throughout Texarkana. It is recommended to lock the doors when driving, secure valuables, and leave cars empty and locked when parked. While most residents commenting on Reddit feel safe in Texarkana, some perceive the Texas side as more challenging, particularly around College Hill and specific apartment complexes. Local authorities work hard to maintain safety and security for all residents, and there is an active police presence, while the Texarkana Crime Stoppers program allows residents to report crime anonymously. To stay safe while living or visiting Texarkana, remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

If you're considering a trip to Texas and are thinking about adding Lubbock to your itinerary, you should keep a few things in mind. While there are certainly positive aspects to this city, like its vibrant arts scene, friendly community, and the presence of Texas Tech University, several factors might make it less appealing to some visitors. One major concern is the city's weather. Lubbock is located in what's known as "Tornado Alley," which means it's prone to hazardous weather conditions like tornadoes, lightning strikes, hail storms, floods, and other unpredictable weather patterns. This is something to consider if you're planning a trip during the spring or summer months when severe weather is more likely.

Another issue to consider is the city's crime rate. According to FBI data, Lubbock has a high rate of both violent and property crimes. While it does have fewer murders than other cities listed here, Lubbock's crime rate is still higher than 97.1% of other cities in the country, as per City Data. Despite this destination's appeal, this is something to keep in mind if you're concerned about safety while traveling and may want to consider other options.

A city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Mesquite has many positive aspects, such as great restaurants and shopping centers, but it also faces some notable safety challenges. According to Crime Grade statistics, Mesquite has a crime rate of 32.51 per 1,000 residents, surpassing the national average. Despite these challenges, Mesquite remains a dynamic community with various offerings for residents, although the disparities in crime rates across neighborhoods highlight the need for caution. While there are safe pockets, the overall crime scenario might impact the enjoyment of what Mesquite offers. 

Staying informed about crime levels and exploring alternative destinations within Texas can contribute to a more secure and enjoyable travel experience. It's important to note that while Mesquite may have safety challenges, it's not the only city in Texas with high crime rates. Research what neighborhoods are safest in Mesquite, like Cantura Cove, and avoid their more dangerous ones, like Harvard Drive.