Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Houston (2023 Updated)

If you’re planning to move to Houston, finding a safe neighbourhood to live in is essential. While Houston is generally a great place to live, some areas have a higher crime rate than others. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Houston. By being aware of these areas, you can decide where to live in the city.

Is Houston a Safe Place to Live?

Although Houston is not considered dangerous, the crime rate has increased recently. The city’s crime rate is 126% higher than the national average, similar to other major cities. However, the concern is the surge in violent crime rates since 2020.

According to crime statistics from 2021 and 2022, certain areas of Houston are considered unsafe. Although most of the city is relatively secure, these neighbourhoods are identified as the most dangerous.

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Houston

1. Sunnyside

In recent years, the crime rate in Sunnyside, a large neighbourhood located south of downtown Houston with a population of 17,751, has been on the rise, making it the most dangerous community in the area. Shockingly, its crime rate is as high as 91 per 1,000 people, which implies that residents have a 1 in 11 chance of falling prey to criminal activities. Sunnyside’s most frequently violent crimes are robberies and assaults, with fewer murders reported.

2. MacGregor

The MacGregor neighbourhood in southeast Houston’s Third Ward is one of the city’s most challenging areas. Despite its beautiful old mansions and a well-funded research university, the community is home to numerous low-income apartments, which have unfortunately contributed to the high rate of violent crime and theft in the area. Shockingly, the violent crime rate in this neighbourhood is as high as 76 per 1000 residents. MacGregor has been listed as one of the most hazardous neighbourhoods in the entire country.

According to recent data, the Houston School District’s public schools have received low ratings, indicating areas for improvement.

3. Sharpstown

In the mid-1950s, Frank Sharp developed Sharpstown to create a family-friendly community. The area flourished initially, providing top-notch entertainment and a haven for families with excellent schools. However, the community lost its charm over time and became plagued by crime. Shockingly, 34% of the population aged 25 and above have not graduated from high school, and the annual violent crime rate in Sharpstown is 34% higher than that of Houston, with firearm-related violence being 65% higher than Houston’s rate.

4. Greenspoint

Located in the southeast of Houston, Greenspoint, nicknamed “Gunpoint” by its residents, is notorious for being one of the city’s most dangerous neighbourhoods. Despite the Houston Police Department’s efforts to maintain law and order, crime rates have steadily increased for over a decade. In the 1990s, the city converted low-income apartments into higher-end family housing, positively impacting crime rates. However, after Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans in 2005, evacuees settled in the Greenspoint area, and crime rates began to rise again.

Currently, the focus is on cleaning up the apartment complexes and revitalizing the site, which has resulted in some progress. Though Greenspoint remains a dangerous part of Houston, there has been a decline in crime. Auto thefts have decreased by 4%, robberies by 16%, sex assaults by 14%, and burglaries have remained steady.

5. Far North

Far North, located along the I-45 highway and close to the airport, is one of Houston’s areas with a high crime rate and limited opportunities. Despite having retail and commercial activities, the median income in this neighbourhood is only $30,316, which is quite low. The area has a relatively low median home value of $72,540, making it affordable for many people. However, the population of this area is around 60,000, and the violent crime rate is relatively high, at 2,455 per 100,000 people.

Crime is a significant concern in the Northeastern area of Houston, with rates that exceed the US national average by 63%. What’s even more alarming is the spike in violent crimes, with a staggering 197% increase compared to the national average. This issue calls for immediate attention and action from authorities to ensure the safety and security of the residents in the area.

6. Northeast

Living in Northeast Houston means you have a one in twenty-five chance of falling victim to crime.

Although there are various nearby attractions, including the Brock Park Golf Club, the prevalence of crime remains a concern. Unfortunately, the neighbourhood is considered more dangerous than 90% of other areas in Texas.

7. Northwest

The crime rates in Northwest Houston surpass the national average by a staggering 48%, making it one of the most challenging areas in the city. The violent crime rates are even more alarming, reaching 131% of the US average. Shockingly, the residents of Northwest Houston have a 1 in 29 chance of falling victim to violent crime.

Northwest Houston is considered more dangerous than other neighbourhoods in Texas, with a rating higher than 86%.

8. East End

The East End of Houston is a neighbourhood with a rich and fascinating history closely intertwined with the city’s development. Once a thriving economic hub that played a central role in Houston’s political landscape, the area has since seen a decline in its fortunes. Today, the East End is grappling with a crime rate that’s 49% higher than the national average, with violent crime rates that are 101% above the US national average.

Located in the southwestern part of the Houston metro area, Sugarland is considered one of the city’s most challenging areas.

9. Sugarland

With a population of 126,502, Sugarland boasts a median income of $42,634 and an unemployment rate of 6.8%. While it offers exciting attractions such as the Houston Museum of Natural Sciences and Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, the city also records 1,228 violent crimes per 100,000 people, which might not be suitable for settling down with your family. Nevertheless, it can still be a perfect destination for a day trip.

10. Pasadena

Located southeast of central Houston, Pasadena boasts of its water access and the attractions it brings, including the Bay Area Museum and the Armand Bayou Nature Center. Despite having a low unemployment rate of 5% and a median income of $64,381, Pasadena suffers from a high crime rate. Sadly, the chance of falling victim to violent crimes in this neighbourhood is 1 in 175. The rate of crimes such as armed robbery, aggravated assault, rape, or murder is alarmingly high, estimated at 6 per 1,000 inhabitants.

Conclusion

If you’re a recent transplant from the North and searching for warmer weather and affordable housing, you may want to steer clear of the following areas in Houston due to their high crime rates. While Texas boasts many fantastic features, Houston’s crime rate is still higher than the national average. However, visitors can still enjoy their time in the city by taking necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

Also Read:

Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Houston (2023 Updated)

Is Houston a Safe Place to Live?