Tennessee Ranks Third in U.S. for Violent Crime, New Study Finds

A new nationwide analysis has placed Tennessee among the most dangerous states in America when it comes to violent crime. The study, conducted by Anidjar & Levine, examined FBI Crime Data Explorer statistics from 2018 to 2022, focusing on aggravated assaults and robberies across all 50 states.

The findings reveal that Tennessee has a violent crime rate of 581.7 incidents per 100,000 residents, a figure that exceeds the national average of 316 by a staggering 84%. With a population of roughly 6.9 million, the state averages 40,196 violent incidents annually — including 35,093 aggravated assaults and 5,103 robberies.

How Tennessee Compares Nationally

The Anidjar & Levine study ranked Tennessee third in the nation for violent crime rates, behind only two other states with higher per-capita figures. The analysis compared each state’s violent incident totals to its average population over the five-year period, producing a clear picture of where residents face the highest risks.

While Tennessee’s numbers are alarming, they are part of a broader pattern in the southeastern U.S., where several states report above-average violent crime rates.

Factors Driving the Numbers

The research points to a combination of factors that may be contributing to Tennessee’s high crime rate:

• Firearm accessibility: High rates of gun ownership can increase the likelihood of violent confrontations escalating.

• Socioeconomic disparities: Poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education can correlate with higher crime rates.

• Mental health support gaps: Limited access to mental health services can leave at-risk individuals without intervention.

Aggravated Assaults Lead the Statistics

Aggravated assault is by far the most common violent crime in Tennessee, accounting for nearly 87% of all violent incidents in the state. These crimes often involve weapons and result in serious injury, placing a heavy burden on law enforcement and healthcare systems.

Robbery, while less frequent, still represents a significant portion of the state’s violent crime profile. Urban centers such as Memphis and Nashville report higher robbery rates than rural areas, though no region is immune.

The Broader Picture

Nationally, the study found that violent crime rates vary widely, with some states reporting fewer than 200 incidents per 100,000 residents. Tennessee’s rate is nearly triple that of the safest states, underscoring the scale of the challenge.

The Anidjar & Levine report serves as a call to action for policymakers, law enforcement, and community leaders to address the root causes of violence. Strategies may include targeted policing, community outreach programs, and expanded access to mental health care.

About the Study: The research was conducted by Anidjar & Levine a Florida-based personal injury law firm that regularly analyzes public safety data to inform the public and advocate for victims’ rights.