Each year, the FBI gathers data to compile a list of the most dangerous cities in America. By analyzing 10,000 per capita crime statistics known to law enforcement, they shed light on which cities are particularly hazardous in each state.
While Ohio’s overall crime rate falls slightly below the national average, not all cities in the Buckeye State are immune to criminal activities. Contrary to popular belief, it is not Columbus or Cleveland the largest cities that top the list as the most dangerous city in Ohio. Surprisingly, it is Canton, the state’s eighth-largest city.
In this article, we will delve into Canton and explore the factors that contribute to its high crime rate. Additionally, we will discuss what it is like for residents living in Ohio’s most perilous city.
History of Canton, Ohio
Canton’s humble beginnings and fascinating history have shaped it into the town it is today. Serving as a center for politics, industry, and sports, Canton boasts a diverse range of markets that contribute to its vibrant atmosphere.
Founding
Canton’s origins can be traced back to 1805 when the town was founded as a small village by its first settlers. Bezaleel Wells, a prominent figure in the area, drew the map of the town in nearby New Lisbon. This map, or “plat,” proved useful years later when town leaders sought to incorporate Canton. Interestingly, Wells is credited with naming the town, although the origin of the name “Canton” has two distinct roots.
Canton quickly established itself as an influential city in Stark County. It became a hub of politics, industry, and sports, contributing to the diversity and vibrancy of the town. Today, Canton is known for its rich history, including being the birthplace of the National Football League (NFL) and home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
However, despite its cultural significance and contributions, Canton also faces challenges when it comes to crime. The city has been labeled as the most dangerous city in Ohio based on statistics provided by the FBI. Various factors contribute to Canton’s high crime rate, including socioeconomic issues, drug-related problems, and gang activity.
Living in the most dangerous city in Ohio can be daunting for residents. Safety concerns may impact daily life and influence decisions regarding where to work, go to school, or raise a family. Efforts have been made by local authorities and community organizations to address crime and improve safety in Canton.
Despite its challenges, Canton continues to strive for growth and development. The city’s diverse industries provide opportunities for economic advancement and job creation. Additionally, Canton’s historical significance and cultural attractions make it an interesting place to live for those who appreciate heritage and enjoy exploring local landmarks.
While Canton may have a reputation as the most dangerous city in Ohio, it is important to note that crime rates can fluctuate over time. Local initiatives aimed at improving safety will continue to play a crucial role in shaping Canton’s future, it was designated the county seat.
Role in Politics
William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States, had a significant connection to Canton. He lived in the city while practicing law and later conducted his successful campaign for Ohio governor from there. Today, Canton is home to a national library, museum, and memorial dedicated to McKinley’s legacy.
Another notable figure in Canton’s history is Eugene Debs, a prominent American socialist leader. In 1918, Debs delivered an influential political address in Canton that had long-lasting effects.
These historical figures and events add to the rich tapestry of Canton’s past and its cultural significance in Ohio and beyond.
On June 16, Eugene Debs delivered a keynote speech at Canton’s annual Ohio Socialist Convention, in which he expressed anti-war sentiments and criticized the military draft. Unbeknownst to Debs, several agents of the U.S. Department of Justice were present in the audience. Under the Espionage Act of 1917, which criminalized interference with the military draft, Debs was arrested fourteen days later and charged with attempting to incite mutiny or refusal of duty for the military and naval forces of the United States.
This momentous event in Canton’s history is commemorated by a marker from Ohio History Connection, which stands at Nimisilla Park, where Debs delivered his speech. It serves as a reminder of the impact this incident had on the justice system.
Industrialization
During the 1920s, Canton became home to several significant companies that played a vital role in the town’s growth and prosperity. Among them were the Dueber-Hampden Watch Company and the Timken Company.
The Dueber-Hampden Watch Company originally started as two separate watch manufacturers in Canton, with both companies sharing a factory from 1886 to 1923. They were major employers in the area during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, just seven years after their formal merger, the organization went out of business and ceased operations.
On the other hand, the Timken Company thrived during this period. Founded by Henry Timken in 1899, it specialized in manufacturing tapered roller bearings. These high-quality bearings found widespread use in various industries, leading to steady growth for the company and job opportunities for Canton residents.
Both these companies left their mark on Canton’s industrial history, with Timken continuing its operations and contributing to the economic well-being of the town and its inhabitants.
Contrary to the fate of the Dueber-Hampden Watch Company, the Timken Company has remained a stable and influential employer in Canton for over a century. In 2014, the company underwent a split, with one division focusing on manufacturing roller bearings that had brought the organization renown in the late 1800s, while the other division focused on steel production.
As of recent data, TimkenSteel, headquartered in Canton, employs around 2,800 individuals. The other division of the company relocated to a suburb of Canton but continues to employ over 10,000 people both locally and globally.
Crime Index
Unfortunately, Canton has a significantly high crime rate compared to the state and national averages. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Canton ranks extremely low on the safety scale, with a score of 1 out of 100.
In terms of violent crimes, Canton experiences a rate of 14.5 incidents per 1000 residents, which is significantly higher than both the state average of 3.4 and the national average of 4. This represents a staggering 326% increase over the state’s average. Violent crimes include murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault according to the FBI’s definition.
These statistics highlight the challenges that residents of Canton face in regards to criminal activity and emphasize the need for proactive measures to ensure community safety.
The crime situation in Canton is concerning, particularly regarding property crimes. There are approximately 51 property crimes committed per 1,000 people in Canton, significantly higher than the Ohio and national averages of around 19. This represents a nearly 170% increase in the likelihood of becoming a victim of a property crime compared to the state average.
Additionally, Canton reports 180 crimes per square mile of land, while the rest of Ohio reports 25 and the national median is 27. These numbers highlight an alarming level of criminal activity for a city of Canton’s size.
Canton also faces significant challenges in terms of violent crimes, with high rates of murders, rapes, and overall crime activity compared to similar-sized cities. The city has one of the highest motor vehicle theft rates in the nation as well.
Given these statistics and the overall crime data, it is understandable why Canton has been ranked as the most dangerous city in Ohio. Addressing these issues requires coordinated efforts from law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders to enhance safety and reduce criminal activity within the city.
Poverty Rate
The poverty rate in Canton is alarming, with 30.3% of residents living below the poverty line according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. This is significantly higher than Ohio’s overall poverty rate of 14.3%, as well as the national average of 11.6%.
Additionally, the average income for households in Canton is relatively low compared to other cities in Ohio and the United States. In 2021 dollars, the median household income was $34,611, indicating financial struggles for many residents. The per capita income reported over the last 12 months was only $21,282.
These economic indicators highlight the challenges faced by a significant portion of Canton’s population, indicating a need for targeted efforts to alleviate poverty and improve income levels within the city.
Average Wages
It is worth noting that the average salary in Canton, Ohio can vary depending on different factors such as education level and gender. According to data from ZipRecruiter as of July 2023, Canton residents earn an average annual salary ranging from $29,500 to $53,000.
The disparity in wages based on education level is evident, with those who have less than a ninth-grade education typically earning less than $30,000 per year. Conversely, individuals with a Bachelor’s or graduate degree tend to earn at least $41,000 or more annually.
An interesting trend emerges regarding gender and salary. Until attaining a graduate degree, females generally have lower salaries compared to their male counterparts. However, once they possess a graduate degree, female salaries consistently surpass those of males.
These figures emphasize the importance of education in contributing to higher earnings potential and highlight the need for ongoing efforts to address gender wage disparities in Canton’s workforce.
Factors Contributing to Crime
Canton, like many other places, has been affected by the opioid crisis, with Stark County consistently ranking as a “high burden county” by the CDC in terms of opioid overdose cases. However, the high crime rate in Canton cannot solely be attributed to drug-related issues.
Many neighborhoods in Canton, particularly downtown areas, suffer from deteriorating housing conditions and limited access to higher-paying jobs. This combination contributes to high crime rates and unemployment levels. These factors create a cycle of poverty for families living in these communities. The high poverty rate is often cited as a primary factor affecting the overall quality of life in Canton, impacting various aspects such as standard of living, economic activities, and crime rates.
To address the issues facing Canton, the city has implemented various initiatives and plans aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods and improving conditions. One such plan is the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Areas (NRSA) Plan. This plan aims to reduce violent crime, increase homeownership rates, and enhance economic corridors within the neighborhoods.
The NRSA Plan focuses on strategic investment in housing, infrastructure improvements, job creation, and community engagement. By targeting specific areas in need of revitalization, the plan seeks to improve living conditions and strengthen the local economy.
Through these efforts, Canton hopes to create safer communities, expand opportunities for homeownership, attract businesses, and ultimately improve the overall quality of life for residents. While it may take time to see significant changes, these initiatives are steps toward creating a better future for the city of Canton.
Living in Canton
Despite the challenges faced by Canton, there are still positive aspects to living in the city. The north side of Canton, in particular, is known for providing a safe and family-friendly environment. Residents have fond memories of living in this area and appreciate the amenities it offers.
Canton’s downtown area provides some of the conveniences typically associated with larger cities, while the rest of the city has a small-town feel. The north side of Canton boasts parks, libraries, YMCA branches, and a reliable job market that contribute to its appeal. Additionally, public schools in Canton rank well despite the limited resources available.
Overall, while there are certain issues affecting Canton, residents can still find positives in their community, especially on the north side.
Canton offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, making it an affordable option for homebuyers. However, there are concerns about crime spreading to previously safe neighborhoods.
Residents caution newcomers to avoid certain areas of the city, such as Tuscarawas Street and areas south of it, due to higher crime rates. Some individuals even recommend considering suburbs near larger cities like Cleveland or Columbus for a potentially better living experience.
It’s important for potential residents to research and consider their preferences and priorities when deciding where to live in Canton or its surrounding areas.
Other Dangerous Cities in Ohio
Canton is currently ranked as the most dangerous city in Ohio, although larger cities like Cleveland also have high crime rates and may top the charts based on different factors such as land size or differently calculated rates of crime.
It’s important to consider multiple sources and metrics when assessing the safety of a city, as rankings can vary depending on the specific criteria used.
Would You Live in the Most Dangerous City in Ohio?
While Canton may have a high crime rate, it still offers attractions that appeal to history buffs and sports fans. The city has significant political and sports history, with notable sites and the renowned Football Hall of Fame. Despite the safety concerns, visitors can still enjoy these cultural and recreational experiences in Canton.
