This study investigated the relationship between youth unemployment and criminal tendencies among youths in Ondo State, Nigeria. A descriptive research design of the survey type was adopted to enable systematic collection and analysis of data. The population consisted of all youths aged 18 to 35 years residing in Ondo State. A sample of 400 respondents was selected using a multistage sampling technique, including stratified random sampling to ensure representation across gender, education, and employment status. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire developed by the researcher. The instrument contained closed-ended questions and Likert-scale items. To ensure validity, the instrument was reviewed by experts in educational research, sociology, and criminology. Reliability was confirmed through a pilot study involving 30 respondents, yielding a Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of 0.82. The questionnaire was administered with the assistance of trained research assistants across selected local government areas, and support was provided to respondents where necessary. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) to answer research questions, and inferential statistics (Pearson Product-Moment Correlation) to test the hypothesis. The findings revealed that 62% of youths were unemployed, with cultism, cybercrime, and drug abuse identified as the most common criminal tendencies. Unemployment was found to cause significant financial hardship, emotional distress, and social isolation. Although government and community interventions existed, their impact was limited due to poor implementation and low participation. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.65, p < 0.05) was found between unemployment and youth involvement in criminal activities. The study recommends that the government and stakeholders implement targeted employment and rehabilitation programs that address both the economic and psychosocial dimensions of youth unemployment in Ondo State.