Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Miami (2023)

Miami is generally considered a secure city, especially when compared to other cities of its size. Nonetheless, certain areas in Miami are known to be unsafe and should be avoided. To learn about the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Miami, keep reading.

How Safe Is Miami?

Miami is a safe place to visit, mainly if you stick to the downtown and tourist areas. With its popularity as a vacation and tourist spot and numerous celebrities call it home, the police have made sure that safety is a top priority.

Despite its many attractions and beautiful locations, certain areas of Miami are not as safe as others. Specifically, Downtown and Northern Miami are notorious for their high crime rates, while southern Miami neighbourhoods are generally considered much safer. Despite this, it’s important to note that Miami is not among the most dangerous cities in the United States. However, it’s always wise to exercise caution and avoid visiting these less desirable neighbourhoods.

By reading further, look at the top ten most dangerous neighbourhoods in Miami.

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Miami

Model City

Model City, located in the Northwest quadrant of Miami, is considered the city’s most dangerous neighbourhoody. With a population of 25,023, it is infamous for its high rate of violent crime, especially those related to drug trafficking. Gun violence, burglaries, robberies, and drive-by shootings are common occurrences in this area. Unfortunately, murders have steadily increased yearly, with a 40% increase from 2011 to 2013. Despite police presence, it remains a dangerous neighbourhood, and caution is advised when walking or biking, especially after dark.

Overtown

With a population of 9,640, Overtown is a historic neighbourhood that holds great significance in Miami. Despite the active police presence, the neighbourhood’s residential part still faces crime issuese. Drug trafficking, assaults, and shootings are among the most frequently reported crimes in Overtown. Shockingly, in 2020, the rate of violent crimes in the area was 124% higher than the national average. Therefore, walking or biking alone past dark is not recommended due to the risk of predatory crimes, even in a group.

Downtown

With a population of 30,500, Downtown Miami is known for being one of the city’s most violent areas. Unfortunately, the violent crime rate in this area is 186% higher than the national average. As of 2022, residents have about a 10% chance of becoming victims of any crime and a 1.2% chance of experiencing violent crime. If you’re planning to explore downtown, doit’sng so i recommended during the daytime. Walking or biking outside tourist areas can be dangerous due to gang activity. Homeless people are often found on street corners, and panhandling is a common issue. It’s advisable to be watchful for thieves and pickpockets while using public transit.

Allapattah

Allapattah, located north of downtown, has approximately 48,221 people. Initially, it was a residential village of Dominicans, but now it is home to a diverse community. Although the neighborhood’su crime rate is not excessive, some areas have pockets of criminal activities. Unfortunately, Allapattah experiences shootings, which gives it a negative reputation in Miami. Despite a significant police presence, crime rates remain 125% higher than the national average. However, riding a bike or walking in Allapattah during the day and evening is relatively safe, provided you stay east of 9th Ave and north of 20th St., known for having criminal elements. Public transit is available and relatively safe.

Little Haiti

Little Haiti, located north of Downtown Miami, has a population of approximately 29,760. Initially established by Haitian immigrants and other Caribbean residents, the city was called Lemon City. While Little Haiti has a significant Hispanic heritage, the community unfortunately suffers from high crime rates. Shootings, assaults, and other violent crimes are common occurrences in this area, with the crime rate being 200% higher than the national average. According to residents, the police are not very active in this community. Visiting Little Haiti during daylight hours is advisable as it can be dangerous at night.

Little Havana

Little Havana, with a population of approximately 76,163, is situated west of downtown Miami. This vibrant neighbourhood is famous for its Cuban heritage and various restaurants. However, gang-related violence continues to be a significant concern. Despite a decrease in the crime rate, incidents of violent and property crimes are still prevalent. Many residents believe that the police presence in the area is inadequate. If you’re looking for safe spaces in Little Havana, the central part, a tourist destination, and the areas west of 22 Ave and south of 8 St are good options. Public transportation is also available and a secure way to move around.

Wynwood

Wynwood, located north of Miami and south of the Design District of Little Haiti, is home to around 17,923 people. Unfortunately, it has a high incidence of property crime, with car theft, vandalism, assault, and other common forms of robbery. While Wynwood is safer than 23% of Florida’s Miami neighbourhoods, its violent crime rate is significantly higher than the national average by 285%. Shockingly, in 2021, there were 726 violent crimes and 6,542 property crimes reported, and many violent cases are believed to go unreported by the police.

West Flagler

West Flagler, located west of Miami, is home to approximately 49,734 people. While it may be possible to stroll around this area day or night, it’s advisable not to do so alone due to the prevalence of petty crimes. Burglary is common here, with 2,427 crimes per 100,000 residents, including theft, vehicle theft, and burglary accounting for 2,158 of those crimes.

Upper Eastside

Miami’s Upper Eastside is known to be one of the most challenging neighbourhoods in the city. With a population of 7,725, the neighbourhood is situated east of Little Haiti. Unfortunately, the violent crime rates in this area are alarmingly high, with a staggering 230% increase compared to the national average.

Living in a higher crime rate area can be very dangerous, but fortunately, the police force in those areas is heavily present and responds quickly to any criminal activity.

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