17. New York City (1970s-1980s)
During the 1970s and 1980s, New York City grappled with sky-high crime rates, rampant urban decay, and a series of chilling incidents like the Son of Sam killings. Subway cars were covered in graffiti, neighborhoods fell into neglect, and fear permeated daily life. Before its dramatic revitalization, New York was widely regarded as one of the most dangerous cities in America. [Source]
