Safety Concerns in Maryland’s Small Towns
Maryland is a state of contrasts, with thriving cities and charming small towns. However, some smaller communities face significant safety challenges marked by high crime rates and social issues.
Understanding these dangerous small towns is essential for residents, visitors, and those considering relocation. Here are 10 of the most dangerous small towns in Maryland for 2025, based on recent crime data and law enforcement reports.
1. Cumberland
Known as the “Queen City,” Cumberland struggles with an opioid crisis, contributing to elevated violent crime rates. Nearly 65% of arrests relate to drug activity, with fentanyl distribution hotspots along major corridors. Property crimes, especially theft of vacant homes’ materials, have also increased, prompting demolition efforts to improve safety.
2. Salisbury
Salisbury has witnessed a sharp rise in violent crimes, particularly in downtown areas and around university events. Assaults and robberies frequently occur near nightlife spots. Despite efforts like expanding surveillance, thefts and property crimes remain critical issues, especially car break-ins.
3. Hagerstown
With drug trafficking linked to Interstate 81 playing a major role, Hagerstown faces a high volume of retail and violent crimes. Motel districts often serve as hubs for methamphetamine activity, and big-box stores report millions lost annually to theft rings. Police have increased undercover operations targeting organized crime.
4. Baltimore
Maryland’s largest city, Baltimore, remains a significant safety concern with its violent crime rate nearly four times the national average. Gang violence, shootings, and robberies remain prevalent despite recent law enforcement initiatives that have reduced gun violence. Certain neighborhoods experience homicide rates eight times the national norm.
5. Ocean City
While a popular tourist destination, Ocean City sees a drastic increase in crime when crowds swell in summer. Property thefts, especially in vacation rental homes and along the boardwalk, peak during this period. Assaults and robberies also tend to rise with heavy foot traffic. The city deploys extra officers seasonally to tackle these issues.
6. Cambridge
Cambridge battles with poverty-related crimes and drug markets. Specific corridors see frequent violent offenses, and while recent police efforts have curtailed open drug sales, property crime remains problematic. Streetlight upgrades aim to improve safety at night.
7. Hyattsville
Close to Washington, D.C., Hyattsville contends with robbers targeting busy transit corridors. Gentrification has yielded a patchwork of safe and unsafe areas, complicating policing efforts. Community patrols have been launched in high-crime neighborhoods to foster cooperation with residents.
8. Frederick
Frederick’s crime is concentrated in public housing areas with high rates of violent and property crime. Recently, catalytic converter thefts have surged, causing police to offer free etching services. Vehicle break-ins in downtown garages are ongoing concerns.
9. Laurel
Situated along key transportation routes, Laurel’s budget motels attract illegal activity including drug offenses and prostitution. Retail theft in local malls is a growing problem, leading to partnerships between police and stores to catch repeat offenders.
10. Elkton
Elkton has crime rates significantly above the national average despite its small population. Robberies, assaults, and thefts dominate, reflecting the challenges of a border town with active drug trafficking routes. Local law enforcement is focused on combating these high-risk crimes.
Awareness and Action for Safer Communities
These small towns in Maryland highlight ongoing safety challenges tied to economic hardship and drug-related crime. While some have launched initiatives to improve conditions, residents and visitors must stay alert and informed. Understanding the risks and supporting community policing and revitalization efforts are vital for turning these towns into safer places for all.
Maryland’s diversity includes both safe neighborhoods and those requiring vigilance—knowledge is the first step toward positive change.
Sources
[1](https://reolink.com/blog/most-dangerous-cities-in-maryland/)
[2](https://www.safehome.org/safest-cities/md/)
[3](https://propertyclub.nyc/article/most-dangerous-cities-in-maryland)
[4](https://realestate.usnews.com/places/rankings/most-dangerous-places)
[5](https://armormax.com/blog/most-dangerous-cities-in-the-world/)
