One Colorado City Is Now Ranked Among the Most Dangerous in the U.S.

Not every town in the Centennial State is perfect, but it's the home we love, even if there are flaws. Some communities offer natural beauty and affordability, which can sometimes mask underlying issues such as criminal challenges.

A Colorado city appears on the U.S. News and World Report, 2025‑2026 list of the 25 most dangerous places. Let's see who made the list (methodology).

The Charm and the Contrast

Pueblo is ranked 10th on the  U.S. News and World Report list of the 25 most dangerous places 2025-2026. It is easy to enjoy Lake Pueblo State Park, the museums, the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center, and the scenic trails. Pueblo is the seventh-largest city in Colorado, with a population of 110,529 as of the 2020 census. When the sun is shining, the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is a fun destination with lots of local flavor. However, city life in Pueblo can offer quite a contrast.

Pueblo is often ranked among high-crime cities in Colorado and the nation. According to statistics from NeighborhoodScout.com, Pueblo recorded a combined violent and property crime rate of 70 per 1000 residents. This puts Pueblo in the top five percent of U.S. cities for danger, and the top ten most violent in the country according to FBI data.

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Root Causes Behind Pueblo’s Crime Rates

Read More: Is Colorado One of the Most Dangerous States?

There is not just one factor behind Pueblo’s higher crime rates. The industrial legacy in areas such as the Bessemer steel district has become a center of deep poverty. Meth (and drug distribution) is a considerable problem, fueled by Pueblo’s location near the I-25 corridor. Property crimes such as auto and catalytic converter theft are frequent. These crimes are often linked to addiction and quick-cash schemes. As these problems overlap, the cycle is difficult to disrupt.

Safety Tips for Visitors and Locals

While Pueblo is a fun city with lots of cool stuff to see, Coloradans know street-smart precautions go a long way.  Safety can vary by neighborhood. Neighborhoods like Bessemer, the East Side, and parts of downtown near the Arkansas River tend to have higher crime. Places like Pueblo West, Belmont, and University Park are usually safer. Some of the best ways to stay safe are to avoid solo travel, especially at night. Always lock your car, secure your valuables, and stay in well-lit, high-traffic areas.