List of Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Detroit With Highest Crime Rates (2023)

Detroit, also called Motor City, has unfortunately gained a negative reputation for its crime rates. It is no secret that Detroit frequently appears on the “Top Ten Lists” of the most dangerous cities regarding violence and criminal activities. This article will delve into the ten neighbourhoods in Detroit with the highest crime rates.

10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Detroit

1. Belmont

Belmont, Detroit, is considered the most dangerous neighbourhood due to its alarming rates of murders and shootings annually. Shockingly, the crime rate in Belmont is 14,048 per 100,000 people, a staggering 664% higher than the national average. This means that residents in Belmont have a 1 in 8 chance of becoming victims of any crime. Gang activity is also a significant concern in this area, giving rise to associated crimes such as robberies, assaults, and drug activity. Despite all this, the median home price in Belmont is just $29,300, making it an incredibly affordable yet dangerous place to live.

2. Petosky-Otsego

Petosky-Otsego is widely considered one of Detroit’s most dangerous neighbourhoods. With a population of 7,177, the area has a crime rate that is a staggering 626% higher than the Michigan average. This means there are 13,342 crimes per 100,000 people, making the chance of becoming a victim 1 in 8. Gang activity is a significant issue in this neighbourhood, and many residents report feeling unsafe and unprotected by law enforcement. The median home price in this area is also significantly lower than the Michigan average, at just $23,667, which is 81% less.

3. Van Steuben

Van Steuben, located north of Detroit, is a dangerous area demanding caution. With a population of 6,379, Van Steuben has a staggering crime rate of 12,742 per 100,000, 593% higher than the national average. The residents of this neighbourhood have a 1 in 8 chance of falling prey to criminal activities. Van Steuben also suffers from high poverty rates, and many buildings and homes are in a state of disrepair and deemed unsafe. The median income in this neighbourhood is a meagre $34,416, and the median home price is just $30,738, making it a challenging place to reside in.

4. Fishkorn 

Fishkorn is known as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Detroit due to its high crime rate. With 12,451 crimes per 100,000 people, this neighbourhood is 577% more difficult than the Michigan average. Unfortunately, the residents of Fishkorn have a 1 in 9 chance of being a victim of any crime. This area also has one of the highest rates of pedestrian accidents caused by vehicles. These alarming statistics demonstrate the dysfunction and inadequate policing in this community. Additionally, the median home price in Fishkorn is only $22,662, 59% lower than the national average.

5. Warrendale

Warrendale, being a small area in Detroit, also happens to be one of the most dangerous places in the city when it comes to crime. Shockingly, the crime rate in Warrendale is as high as 12,432 per 100,000 people, 576% higher than the average crime rate in Michigan. Sadly, the residents of Warrendale have a 1 in 9 chance of becoming victims of any criminal activity. The area has been struggling with urban decay and a decrease in population due to insufficient job opportunities. As a result, the median home price in Warrendale is an incredibly low $17,650.

6. Greensbriar 

The neighbourhood of Greensbriar in Detroit is widely recognized as one of the most dangerous areas in the city. With a population of 2,531, the crime rate in this locality was 549% higher than the national average in 2022. The alarming statistics indicate that residents have a 1 in 7 chance of falling prey to any crime. Gang violence is rampant in Greensbriar, resulting in frequent shootings, robberies, and drug-related activities. The area also grapples with high levels of unemployment and poverty, with a median income of $31,313 and a median home price of $31,200.

7. Franklin Park

Franklin Park, situated in Detroit, poses a significant threat to its residents as it is considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city. Its population count is 11,290, and the crime rate is 543% higher than the national average. Anyone residing in Franklin Park has a 1 in 9 possibility of being a victim of some crime. The area is known for its high rate of gang and drug activities, which results in increased robberies, homicides, and assaults. Moreover, the median income in Franklin Park is only $29,235, and the median house price is $30,264.

8. Fitzgerald

The neighbourhood of Fitzgerald is home to approximately 5,100 people and boasts a high crime rate of 11,236 per 100,000 residents. Shockingly, this rate is 516% higher than the Michigan average, meaning that the chances of becoming a victim of crime are alarmingly high, at 1 in 9. Despite recent attempts to revitalize certain areas, the neighbourhood suffers from urban decay and associated corruption. Unfortunately, Fitzgerald is plagued with many inner-city issues, including high unemployment, poverty, and inadequate schools.

9. The Eye

The Eye, a neighbourhood with a distinctive name, was named after community watch groups established in the 1980s to deter break-ins. Despite these efforts, crime rates in the area remain high. With a population of 3,437, The Eye has a crime rate of 10,642 per 100,000 – a staggering 479% higher than the Michigan average. Residents have a 1 in 10 chance of falling victim to any crime. Walking or driving through this neighbourhood is not recommended, particularly at night.

10. Poletown East

Poletown East, a small neighbourhood in Detroit, is notorious for being one of the most dangerous areas in the city. It has a population of only 517 and a crime rate of 307% higher than the Michigan average. Shockingly, the neighbourhood experiences an average of 7,488 crimes per 100,000 people, with residents having a 1 in 14 chance of becoming victims of any crime. In addition to this alarming statistic, this area also has exceptionally high poverty rates, with the average income being just $16,286.

Final Words

Detroit has a reputation for its abandoned buildings and urban decay, but some neighborhoods within the city are even more dangerous than others. If you’re living or working in Detroit, it’s best to steer clear of these ten neighborhoods. These areas are notorious for having unusually high rates of violent and property crimes, severe urban decay, and a low quality of life for residents.

Also Read:

• Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in America With Highest Crime Rate (2023)
• The Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in New Orleans With Highest Crime Rate (2023)
• Check Out The 8 Most Dangerous New York City Neighborhoods in 2023
• The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Massachusetts with the Highest Crime Rates (2023 Update)