Car theft is a common occurrence across the US, with one car stolen every 32 seconds. The rate and type of cars vary considerably by location because rural states, for example, have lesser public insecurity than urban areas. So, let’s look at which car is stolen the most in each state and probably why. If you have any experiences, share and alert people!
Alabama
The most stolen car in Alabama is the Chevrolet Silverado. Car theft is a persistent issue here, with many thefts occurring in urban areas such as Birmingham and Montgomery. The state’s proximity to major highways makes transporting stolen vehicles across state lines easier.
Alaska
The rugged terrain and long distances between cities make it difficult for law enforcement to track stolen cars effectively. Residents often demand durable trucks, as these are essential for navigating Alaska’s harsh conditions. As a result, the Chevrolet Silverado is the most stolen vehicle in Alaska, too.
Arizona
The Chevrolet Silverado is the most stolen vehicle in Arizona, reflecting the state’s preference for trucks and SUVs. Arizona’s proximity to the US-Mexico border exacerbates the car theft problem, as such vehicles are often smuggled across the border to be resold or used for illegal activities.
Arkansas
Car theft in Arkansas is often driven by economic factors, with stolen vehicles being dismantled and sold for parts. Arkansas’ rural nature provides cover for these illegal operations, as chop shops can operate undetected. The 2006 Chevrolet Silverado also ranks as the most stolen vehicle in Arkansas.
California
Most thieves in California prefer older models of the Honda Civic, a trend that has persisted for years. Car theft in California is pronounced in densely populated urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Stolen vehicles are often used in drug trafficking or as getaway cars.
Colorado
In the state of Colorado, the Ford F-150 is the most stolen vehicle. Mountainous terrains and outdoor culture make trucks and SUVs particularly popular, which is why the vehicles are frequently targeted by thieves. Cases of car theft in Colorado have increased in recent years.
Connecticut
Thieves in Connecticut frequently target the Honda Civic. Organized criminal gangs run several car theft rings, with stolen vehicles being transported out of state or sold for parts. Urban areas like Hartford and New Haven see the highest theft rates, with older models being particularly vulnerable.
Delaware
Delaware’s small size often makes it easy for car thieves to escape. Mostly targeting the Nissan Altima, thieves smuggle the cars to larger metropolitan areas like Philadelphia and Baltimore. Delaware’s highways and access to major transportation routes make it an attractive location for thieves.
Florida
In Florida, the 2006 Ford F-150 is the most stolen vehicle. Florida’s large population, extensive highway system, and proximity to international shipping ports make it a hotspot for car theft. Thieves often target trucks and SUVs in high demand for parts and resale.
Georgia
Thieves in Georgia particularly target owners of the Ford F-150. With its large population and extensive road network, Atlanta is the epicenter of vehicle theft in Georgia. The state has increased penalties for car theft and enhanced cooperation between local and state law enforcement agencies.
Hawaii
The Honda Civic is the most targeted vehicle in Hawaii, which is a pressing challenge for the island. With limited space and a smaller population, stolen cars are often quickly found or abandoned. However, the popularity of older Honda models, which lack advanced security features, makes them frequent targets.
Idaho
Because of Idaho’s rural beauty and agricultural economy, thieves mostly target the Chevrolet Silverado truck. They exploit the state’s wide-open spaces and proximity to other states. Though car theft in Idaho is less common, it remains a problem, especially in Boise and Nampa.
Illinois
With its large population and high crime rates, Chicago has become the hub of car theft in Illinois. Stolen vehicles in Illinois are often used in robberies or drug trafficking before being abandoned or sold for parts. Jeep Cherokee are stolen most often and transported across the state’s extensive highway system.
Indiana
Urban areas in Indiana, like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, experience the highest rates of stolen cars. Older vehicles, especially the Ford F-150, are easy targets and are often used in other suspicious activities. The state has seen increased organized car theft rings, often across state lines.
Iowa
The Chevrolet Silverado is the most stolen vehicle in Iowa, where the state’s agricultural economy and rural surroundings make trucks valuable. It is a more common issue in places like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids than in the rest of the state.
Kansas
Like most rural states, the Ford F-150 is the most stolen vehicle in Kansas. Cities like Wichita and Kansas City have the highest rates, with older trucks being the prime targets due to their utility and lack of modern features. Stolen vehicles are often used in agricultural areas.
Kentucky
The Ford F-150 is stolen the most in Kentucky. Kentucky’s mix of urban centers like Louisville and rural farmland presents a diverse area for car thieves. In cities, stolen vehicles are often linked to mobs, while in rural areas, they may be used in agricultural thefts.
Louisiana
Similarly, the Ford F-150 is also the most stolen vehicle in Louisiana. Car theft is a persistent problem, particularly in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. The state’s high poverty rate and the presence of the mafia contribute to the high rates of vehicle theft.
Maine
Though stolen car cases are rare in Maine, thieves mostly target the Chevrolet Silverado due to the state’s rugged terrain and harsh winters. Towns like Portland and Bangor record the highest incidences, and stolen trucks are often used for illegal logging.
Maryland
Older models of the Honda Accord are the most stolen vehicles in Maryland. The issue of car theft is significant in the state, particularly in urban areas like Baltimore. The state’s proximity to major highways and ports makes it easy for thieves to move stolen cars quickly.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts’ dense population, especially in Boston and Worcester, contributes to the problem of car theft. Furthermore, the extensive road network makes it easy for thieves to move stolen vehicles. Older models of the Honda Accord are popular targets due to the absence of advanced security devices.
Michigan
Michigan has a vibrant automotive industry, yet the Dodge Charger is the most stolen vehicle. Places like Detroit have one of the country’s highest car theft rates. The state’s law enforcement agencies use bait cars and increased patrols to catch perpetrators.
Minnesota
Minnesota’s urban areas like Minneapolis and St. Paul have high rates of stolen cars. The 1997 Honda Civic is the most targeted vehicle. Factors like the state’s harsh winters and extensive road network make vehicles essential, and older models like the Accord are popular targets for thieves.
Mississippi
The Chevrolet Silverado is the most stolen vehicle in Mississippi, where the rural areas and agricultural economy make trucks particularly valuable. Towns like Jackson and Gulfport experience economic challenges and high crime rates, creating an ideal vehicle theft environment.
Missouri
High poverty levels in Missouri contribute to the issue of car theft. This is prevalent in cities like St. Louis and Kansas City. The popular Ford F-150 is the most stolen car in the state. Missouri’s extensive highway system facilitates the movement of stolen cars across state lines.
Montana
Trucks, primarily the Chevrolet Silverado, are the most stolen vehicles in Montana. This is due to the state’s prevalent rugged terrain and the use of trucks for farming and ranching. Though car theft in Montana is not frequent, it is a growing concern in Billings and Missoula.
Nebraska
Automobile thieves in Nebraska target the Chevrolet Silverado because of its ruggedness. The state’s agricultural economy also makes trucks particularly valuable. Cities like Omaha and Lincoln take the lead, even though there are few cases of missing vehicles.
Nevada
Nevada has faced a significant challenge with car theft, with Las Vegas being a hotspot due to its large population and influx of tourists. The most stolen car model is the old-model Chevrolet Silverado. These vehicles are targeted due to their high resale value and ease of theft.
New Hampshire
Older models of the Ford F-150 often lack advanced anti-theft systems and this makes them easier targets for criminals in New Hampshire. Also, the state’s rural nature can sometimes lead to vehicles being left unlocked or unattended, further increasing their vulnerability. The Accord’s reliability and availability are also factors.
New Jersey
The prevalence of Honda Accord thefts in New Jersey can be attributed to the car’s popularity and the high demand for its parts in the black market. New Jersey’s proximity to major urban centers like New York City provides a lucrative market for stolen vehicles and parts.
New Mexico
Thieves in New Mexico mostly target the Ford F-150. The state’s vast suburbs and proximity to major highways facilitate the transport of stolen vehicles across borders, complicating recovery efforts. Economic struggles in some areas of New Mexico contribute to higher crime rates, including vehicle theft.
New York
The most stolen car model in New York is the Honda Accord, which is frequently targeted due to its reliability and high demand. New York City’s crowded streets and frequent parking challenges can make it easier for thieves to target unattended vehicles.
North Carolina
Cities like Charlotte and Raleigh witness a high rate of stolen cars, and the Honda Accord is the most stolen vehicle. Honda’s allure and the demand for its parts, especially its high-performance variants, attract thieves seeking its powerful engine and sleek design.
North Dakota
North Dakota, located in the Upper Midwest, is characterized by its vast plains and rolling hills. The economy, which is reliant on agriculture and manufacturing, encourages the use of sturdy four-wheelers. Though the delinquency rate is low, the state has faced increasing vehicle theft, especially of the Chevrolet Silverado.
Ohio
Ohio, with a population of around 11.7 million, is one of the most populous states in the US. Urban areas like Cleveland and Columbus experience higher crime rates in the state. Car theft is a significant issue; the most stolen car model is the Ford F-150.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s diverse economy is driven by energy, agriculture, manufacturing, and aviation sectors. The state is known for its rich cultural heritage. Its crime rate is generally above the national average, and car thieves often steal the Chevrolet Silverado, which is highly targeted due to its popularity.
Oregon
Oregon’s terrain ranges from coastal rainforests to high deserts and mountainous terrain, contributing to its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. With a population of over 4.3 million, theft is moderate, but the Honda Civic is frequently stolen.
Pennsylvania
Geographically, Pennsylvania features a mix of urban areas, including Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and vast rural regions. With a population of 12.8 million people, the state is the fifth most populous in the US. Its most stolen vehicle is the Honda Accord, which has a high resale value.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island, one of America’s smallest states, has a diverse economy driven by healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism. Its small population is concentrated in cities like Providence. Rhode Island’s crime rate is relatively low but faces challenges with car theft, with the Honda Accord stolen mostly.
South Carolina
With a population of over 5.3 million, South Carolina is characterized by its historic cities like Charleston and Greenville. The state faces crime challenges, including high rates of car theft. The Ford F-150 is the most stolen mode due to its high resale value.
South Dakota
South Dakota’s economy is driven primarily by agriculture, with significant contributions from tourism, particularly in areas like Mount Rushmore. The state has a low population density and a high rural concentration. Stolen car cases are infrequent, though the Chevrolet Silverado is often targeted.
Tennessee
The state’s geography ranges from the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Mississippi River in the west. Its temperate climate supports its rich agricultural lands. Crime rates often fluctuate, yet the Ford F-150 is the most stolen because of its popularity.
Texas
Texas houses a diverse economy, which contributes to its position as one of the largest state economies in the US. Geographically, it spans from arid deserts in the west to lush forests in the east. Crime rates vary widely, and car theft is notable, as thieves often prefer the Chevrolet Silverado.
Utah
Utah has a vibrant economy driven by technology, tourism, and mining, with significant growth in tech startups. Despite its generally low crime rate, Utah faces challenges with vehicle theft. The most stolen car model in the state is the Ford F-150, targeted due to its high resale value.
Vermont
Rolling hills and expansive forests provide a beautiful backdrop to Vermont’s small but vibrant population of approximately 650,000 residents. With a generally low crime rate, car theft is not frequent but still occurs. The Subaru Impreza frequently tops the list of stolen vehicles in Vermont.
Virginia
The state has a population of approximately 8.7 million, and its major urban centers include Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Northern Virginia. Virginia’s crime rate is relatively low, but vehicle thefts remain a concern. Thieves frequently target the Honda Accord for its reliability and ease of sale.
Washington
Washington’s geography ranges from coastal rainforests to mountainous regions. Its population is approximately 7.8 million. Property crimes, including vehicle theft, occur regularly. Among stolen vehicles, the Honda Civic consistently ranks as the most targeted model, primarily because of the car’s popularity and resale value.
West Virginia
Though its economy traditionally relies on coal mining, West Virginia is diversifying into sectors such as manufacturing and tourism. Its population of approximately 1.8 million is an aging demographic. Regarding vehicle theft, the most stolen car model is the Ford F-150.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is known for its rolling plains, forests, and numerous lakes, like Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. The state’s economy relies on manufacturing, agriculture, and service industries, with significant contributions from dairy farming and brewing. Due to its high property theft rate, Honda Civic owners are most affected.
Wyoming
Wyoming is characterized by vast open lands and low population density. This tiny state’s economy is driven by energy resources, tourism, and agriculture. Wyoming has a relatively low crime rate, but car theft is rife. In particular, the Ford F-150 stands out as the most stolen vehicle in the state.
