This article highlights 12 towns in Alabama with notably high burglary rates. We’ve used FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) and National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) data to measure burglary incidents per 100,000 residents for towns with populations of 10,000 or more. Economic hardship, seasonal tourism, and geographic factors were also considered to explain why some towns experience higher property crime rates. Each of the towns listed below has unique circumstances that contribute to its burglary rate, from vacant student housing to historical economic transitions.
1. Alexander City
Located in Tallapoosa County, Alexander City’s burglary rate stands at 1,712 per 100,000, making it the highest in the state. Situated on Lake Martin, it sees a surge of visitors during tourist seasons, leaving many lakefront properties vacant. The town has been significantly affected by economic decline following the loss of its textile industry. The combination of high poverty and seasonal vacancies creates an ideal environment for burglars, who target homes when residents are away. The challenges of law enforcement and limited resources make the town more susceptible to crime.
2. Anniston
Anniston, the largest city in Calhoun County, faces a burglary rate of 1,185 per 100,000. This city, once thriving due to the presence of Fort McClellan, has seen economic setbacks since the base closed. With Interstate 20 running through, it’s also a conduit for drug trafficking, making it more prone to transient criminal activity. The closure of the military base further disrupted the city’s economy, leaving it with many vacant homes and under-secured properties. This environment, combined with economic hardship, keeps burglary rates elevated.
3. Bessemer
Bessemer, a city located southwest of Birmingham, has a burglary rate of 1,152 per 100,000. The city’s history as a steel production center has left it with vacant industrial buildings and underemployed communities. These conditions, coupled with proximity to Birmingham, make Bessemer a prime location for criminal activity, as criminals can easily escape via major highways. The loss of industry and the increasing poverty rate have contributed to a growing property crime rate, which the city is working hard to combat through renewed policing efforts.
4. Birmingham
As Alabama’s largest city, Birmingham experiences a burglary rate of 717 per 100,000. The city has struggled with economic inequality, especially in neighborhoods transitioning from its industrial past. Many areas are affected by drug trafficking, which exacerbates the crime rate. With its role as a regional transportation hub, Birmingham offers escape routes for criminals, making it easier for them to target homes and businesses. Urban renewal efforts are ongoing, but the city still faces significant challenges in curbing its property crime rate.
5. Prichard
Prichard’s burglary rate reaches 701 per 100,000. Located in Mobile County, it faces economic struggles due to high unemployment and poverty levels. These conditions are compounded by deteriorating housing stock and limited law enforcement resources. The city’s proximity to Mobile port and Interstate access facilitates criminal mobility, as burglars can quickly escape. The combination of these factors creates a high-risk environment for property crimes, making Prichard one of the more burglary-prone cities in the state.
6. Dothan
Dothan, with a burglary rate of 604 per 100,000, is located in Houston County. Known as the Peanut Capital of the World, the city’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture. However, this seasonal industry creates periods of vacancy when workers are absent, making properties easy targets. Drug trafficking and highway access also contribute to the town’s elevated crime rates, as criminals take advantage of the city’s proximity to major routes. Economic inequality further compounds the issue, leaving many neighborhoods vulnerable to burglary.
7. Talladega
Home to the famous Talladega Superspeedway, Talladega has a burglary rate of 653 per 100,000. The seasonal influx of racing fans during events increases the likelihood of vacant properties being targeted by burglars. Additionally, the town relies heavily on tourism, which can create vulnerabilities when residential areas are left unattended. While the city enjoys a boost during race weekends, crime spikes during the off-season, as visitors leave, and neighborhoods become quiet. This inconsistency in population density contributes to higher burglary rates.
8. Selma
Selma, with a burglary rate of 583 per 100,000, faces significant economic challenges, including high poverty and limited job opportunities. This small city’s historic status attracts tourists, but it also leaves many vacant properties during off-peak times. The aging infrastructure and economic distress in certain areas make it easier for burglars to target homes and businesses. Additionally, Selma’s small-town setting and limited resources contribute to the vulnerability of properties, making it a prime target for property crime.
9. Gadsden
Gadsden, located in Etowah County, reports a burglary rate of 566 per 100,000. The city’s historical role as a steel industry center has left it with vacant homes and deteriorating properties. These conditions, combined with drug trafficking and economic struggles, contribute to Gadsden’s high burglary rate. The town’s proximity to Interstate 59 also provides criminals with easy access to and from other parts of the state, making it an attractive location for property crime.
10. Florence
Florence, located in Lauderdale County, has a burglary rate of 277 per 100,000. Known for being a regional hub and home to the University of North Alabama, Florence experiences seasonal crime patterns that are linked to the university’s calendar. During summer breaks, many student housing units are left vacant, making them prime targets for burglars. Older homes in historic districts also lack modern security features, which increases vulnerability. Despite these challenges, the city continues to work on improving security and community policing efforts to reduce property crime.
Sources
- FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program – National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), latest data.
- BeautifyData – Alabama Burglary Rates by City (2023).
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Crime Statistics and Trends Analysis.
- Supplemental local crime profiles from NeighborhoodScout and AreaVibes for contextual verification.
- Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center – Geographic Crime Distribution Analysis.
