Discovering Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC (2023)

If you’re planning to visit or reside in New York City, knowing which neighbourhoods to avoid is essential. Although it’s a vibrant and exciting city, certain areas have a higher crime rate than others. These neighbourhoods can be unsafe and pose a risk to visitors and residents alike. So, which parts of the city are the most dangerous? It’s advisable to avoid various locations throughout the Big Apple to ensure safety.

Looking for information about the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York City? Look no further. This article will discuss ten of the city’s most dangerous areas and explain why they arrived on our list. It’s essential to stay safe when navigating a city as large as New York, and knowing which areas to avoid can be crucial.

10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC

1. Hunts Point

Hunts Point, a neighbourhood located in the Bronx, has gained notoriety as the most dangerous area in NYC. The prevalence of prostitution and drug-related activities has resulted in a high crime rate, with the chances of being a victim in Hunts Point estimated to be 1 in 22. Of particular concern is the increasing number of sexual assault cases reported in the area, which makes it an unsafe place to visit.

According to statistics, the violent crime rate is approximately 1,944 per 100,000 individuals, while the overall crime rate is about 4,557 per 100,000 people. It’s advisable to avoid Hunts Point if you plan to visit or reside in New York City. This precautionary measure could help you stay safe during your stay in the city.

2. Brownsville

Brownsville stands out as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC. Its reputation as one of the city’s worst areas is well-earned, with many homicides, drug-related fatalities, and murders. The murder rate is almost four times the average in New York, making it abundantly clear why Brownsville is a place to avoid in the city. The risks of the high crime rate outweigh any potential benefits for the average person in New York.

According to statistics, the likelihood of experiencing crime in this area is approximately 1 in 36. Shockingly, the violent crime rate is 1,264 per 100,000 individuals, and the overall crime rate is 2,810 per 100,000 individuals. These numbers suggest that the chances of falling victim to a crime are significant. It is clear that this Brooklyn neighbourhood is not an ideal location in terms of safety, and it is highly recommended to steer clear of it if possible.

3. Mott Haven

Mott Haven has a notorious reputation for being one of the most unsafe neighbourhoods in New York. Its crime rate is almost 400% higher than the national average, making it a place to avoid when possible, especially after dark. If you’re passing through, it’s advisable to steer clear of the area to get somewhere else. Staying inside and away from the neighbourhood is generally the best course of action to ensure your safety.

Mott Haven is a neighbourhood with a relatively high crime rate; the probability of becoming a victim is 1 in 32. The violent crime rate in this area is approximately 2,039 per 100,000 people, with an overall crime rate of around 5,181 per 100,000 people. This includes crimes such as rape, murder, assault, robbery, and more. Therefore, it’s essential to remain vigilant when travelling through Mott Haven, whether it’s during daylight or nighttime.

4. Bedford-Stuyvesant

Bedford-Stuyvesant, commonly called Bed-Stuy, has a reputation for high crime rates. While it’s not as dangerous as the era when Biggie Smalls rapped about “Do or Die, Bed-Stuy,” the crime rate has shown an upward trend in recent years. Robberies and violent encounters with strangers are the most frequent occurrences in the neighbourhood, and it’s crucial to remain alert.

According to recent data, the likelihood of falling victim to crime in Bedford-Stuyvesant is approximately 1 in 35. Shockingly, the violent crime rate is about 1,065 per 100,000 people, and the overall crime rate is about 2,902 per 100,000 people. As such, whether you’re a visitor or searching for a suitable place to live in New York City, avoiding this area is advisable.

5. Midtown

Midtown may not be known for its danger, but crime rates have increased recently. One contributing factor is the growing homelessness problem, which has led to several high-profile incidents in 2020 and 2021 where homeless individuals have attacked and stabbed people in Midtown. While violent crime is not as prevalent as in other areas, theft is rampant. The constant flow of tourists in Times Square and Central Park makes it easy for criminals to snatch personal belongings and make a quick getaway.

The crime statistics in this area show a property crime rate of around 7,400 per 100,000 individuals, while the violent crime rate is approximately 1,200 per 100,000 people. Although the chances of getting pickpocketed are higher than being assaulted, neither scenario is ideal. It’s crucial to remain vigilant, even in the presence of fellow tourists, which may give a false sense of security.

6. East Harlem

East Harlem, a bustling neighbourhood in Manhattan, is a melting pot of diversity where many people have found their footing. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous areas in the city, with a high crime rate that is cause for concern. While property crimes are the most common, the violent crime rate is nearly double the national average. Despite the risks, the community remains resilient in the face of adversity.

In East Harlem, statistics show a 1 in 22 chance of becoming a victim of crime. The area has an average violent crime rate of approximately 1,616 incidents per 100,000 people and an overall average crime rate of 4,554 incidents per 100,000 people. However, with more law enforcement measures, there is hope that these numbers will soon decrease and improve the community’s safety.

7. Fordham

Despite being a college town which houses a part of the renowned Fordham University campus, Fordham is also considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York City. With its small size, the Bronx neighbourhood has an assault rate almost five times higher than the national average. It is worth noting that the area has a separate police force for the North and South sides to maintain law and order.

The likelihood of falling prey to criminal activities in this area is quite high, with a probability of 1 in 29. The rate of violent crimes is staggering, with approximately 1,251 incidents for every 100,000 individuals. Similarly, the overall crime rate sits at around 3,604 per 100,000 people. It is highly recommended to avoid walking alone in Fordham during the night due to its alarming crime rate. Unfortunately, there has been no significant improvement in this regard over the years, and how the situation will evolve remains to be seen.

8. Highbridge

Located in the Bronx, Highbridge is known as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York. Despite its popularity among tourists visiting its coffee shops and iconic film locations, this area faces significant issues with street and drug crimes. These problems make it challenging for residents and visitors to feel safe and secure in this neighbourhood.

The likelihood of falling prey to crime in this locality is approximately 1 in 29. The average violent crime rate is around 1,149 per 100,000 individuals, while the average crime rate is about 3,564 per 100,000 people. Highbridge may seem like an attractive neighbourhood, but it’s crucial to remain vigilant. You never know what might be happening around you in the vicinity.

9. Bushwick

Although considered the safest neighbourhood on this list, Bushwick still shares similarities with the others. Situated in Brooklyn, this historic area has existed since the 1800s and has undergone a slow but steady transformation, attracting a diverse group of residents seeking more affordable New York living. Despite these changes, the neighborhood still faces high crime rates compared to other areas in the city.

In Bushwick, the likelihood of becoming a victim is roughly 1 in 40. The violent crime rate, averaging at around 727 per 100,000 people, isn’t as high as other areas. However, petty theft and robbery are pretty prevalent. Unfortunately, the crime rate is on the rise. But, there are hopes that it will decrease shortly.

10. Tremont

Tremont, located in the Bronx borough of New York City, is infamous for being one of the poorest neighborhoods in the city. High crime rates plague it, almost 200% above the national average. To combat this, the area has two police precincts dedicated to maintaining law and order. Unfortunately, Tremont’s reputation for crime remains, making it one of the less desirable parts of New York City to visit or live in.

The statistics show a relatively high chance of falling victim to crime in Tremont, with a 1 in 35 chance of becoming a victim. The violent crime rate in this area is approximately 1,223 per 100,000 people, while the average crime rate is around 2,898 per 100,000 people. Whether you are travelling during the day or at night, it is essential to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings to avoid becoming a victim of crime in Tremont.

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