Car theft is a problem that affects every part of the United States, but some states face higher risks than others. Knowing where these hot spots are can help you make smarter decisions to protect your car, truck, or SUV. Here is a breakdown of the states with the highest vehicle theft rates and why these areas stand out.
Texas
Texas leads the country in vehicle thefts, with over 105,015 vehicles stolen in 2022 alone, according to the NICB’s most recent data. Pickups like the RAM 1500 and Ford F-150 are top targets, especially around major cities like Houston and Dallas.
Click2Houston reports a persistent surge in auto thefts across Houston’s metro area.
California
California consistently ranks among the top states for auto theft, recording 202,685 stolen vehicles in 2022, per NICB. Cities like Los Angeles, Oakland, and San Francisco drive these numbers, with high demand for parts and resale markets.
ABC7 Los Angeles highlighted a sharp rise in catalytic converter thefts in 2023, adding to overall vehicle crime.
Florida
Florida logged 45,973 vehicle thefts in 2022, with Miami and Orlando seeing large numbers tied to export-focused theft rings operating through the state’s ports.
WPLG Local 10 reported a rise in luxury car thefts linked to organized crime groups shipping vehicles abroad.
Ohio
Ohio saw over 29,913 stolen vehicles in 2022, with theft concentrated in urban areas like Cleveland and Columbus, where SUVs and sedans are frequent targets.
Cleveland 19 News noted a rise in organized groups targeting residential streets.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania recorded 26,161 auto thefts in 2022, with Philadelphia leading the way. Thieves often go after popular models like the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry.
6ABC Philadelphia showed an alarming rise in thefts of affordable sedans.
North Carolina
North Carolina reported 23,576 vehicle thefts in 2022, according to NICB. Charlotte and Raleigh have seen increasing thefts of pickups and family SUVs as these metros continue to grow.
WCNC Charlotte discussed how growth in population has made the area more vulnerable.
New York
New York had 24,993 stolen vehicles in 2022, with New York City leading the state’s numbers due to dense traffic and easy resale opportunities.
NY Post warned about keyless-entry hacks fueling recent spikes.
Illinois
Illinois recorded 47,909 auto thefts in 2022, with Chicago as a major hot spot. Criminals often target keyless vehicles and popular pickups, then resell or strip for parts.
CBS News Chicago highlighted the rise in thefts of Hyundai and Kia models.
Arizona
Arizona had 23,334 stolen vehicles in 2022, per NICB, with Phoenix standing out as a theft hub thanks to its large market of pickups and SUVs, plus proximity to the border.
AZ Central described the growth in theft rings linked to international trade.
Georgia
Georgia logged 26,020 vehicle thefts in 2022, with Atlanta’s busy metro and suburban areas seeing steady theft rates. Affordable sedans and family SUVs are common targets.
Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported newer theft techniques being used by criminals.
Why Protecting Your Vehicle Matters
Every state faces some level of risk, but these hot spots stand out for a reason. Protecting your car with LoJack through VG Motors is a smart move. LoJack provides advanced tracking and recovery technology, working directly with law enforcement to recover your vehicle faster and minimize your losses.
No matter where you live, VG Motors is ready to help connect you with LoJack so you can drive with greater confidence.
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