Post-pandemic, San Francisco has gone through some ups and downs, especially when it comes to safety. Factors like economic challenges, homelessness, and changes in law enforcement approaches have impacted some neighborhoods more than others.
While most of the city remains friendly and welcoming, certain districts continue to face higher crime rates. So, if you’re exploring SF, it’s good to know where you might need to be more alert. Here are some hotspots.
Key Takeaways
- Tenderloin and SoMa: Exercise caution, especially at night, due to high rates of drug-related crime and theft.
- Mission District and Civic Center: Mixed areas; safe during the day but riskier after dark—stay alert near BART stations.
- Use rideshares, secure belongings, and stay aware of your surroundings to avoid common safety issues in SF.
5. Civic Center and UN Plaza
You might be surprised to see Civic Center on this list since it’s so close to iconic landmarks like City Hall and the Asian Art Museum. But don’t let the grand architecture fool you.
The area has a visible homeless population, open drug use, and can feel sketchy, especially at night. The BART stations and bus stops in this area can be particularly unnerving after dark.
Visitors have reported incidents of aggressive panhandling, so it’s best to keep moving, avoid lingering, and opt for rideshares if you’re leaving an evening event in the area.
Transit / BART Station Incident Rates
BART Crimes logs incidents including narcotics possession, fare evasion, warrant arrests, and overdoses (Narcan deployments). The site reports ~1,203 total incidents in their logs (over an unspecified time) at the station.
Examples include:
- Arrests for narcotics or outstanding warrants.
- Overdoses: officers have deployed Narcan to revive individuals in the station vicinity.
- Less common but reported: assaults or resisting arrest.
Drug Enforcement Operations
According to CBS News, in April 2024, a police operation targeting narcotics around the Tenderloin, UN Plaza, and the Main Library seized over 13 lbs of narcotics and some firearms.
In February 2024, SFPD reported 23 arrests over two nights in UN Plaza in a drug-crackdown initiative.
Day vs. Night Variation & Open-Air Drug Activity
According to ABC7 San Francisco, during daytime hours the plaza may appear clean, especially when skateboarders are active, but by night, it can revert to “a drug market” atmosphere.
One anonymous observer said: “when the skaters are not here, it’s like a zombieland.” ABC7 San Francisco
In addition, law enforcement is often criticized for focusing on visible drug use and homelessness, balancing enforcement with social services constraints, as per the San Francisco Public Press.
Perception & Lesser Violent Crime
Some Redditors consider the area “sketchy, especially at night,” though not necessarily “dangerous” in the sense of frequent violent assaults.
In past years, law students have reported fearing the exit of the Civic Center BART station because of catcalling, open-air drug use, and street dealing, San Francisco Standard reports.
Citywide trends affecting context
- Grow SF has reported substantial declines in property crime and violent crime in 2025. For instance, one source claims a 45% drop in property crime in Q1 2025.
- Homicides in the first half of 2025 fell ~35% compared to the same period in 2024, per Axios.
- However, gun violence citywide is up ~5% compared to 2024 (non-fatal shootings) in certain weekly snapshots.
- Some commentators argue that while visible crime (drug use, homelessness) is being more aggressively policed, deeper structural issues (shelter shortage, addiction, mental health) remain unresolved.
4. Bayview-Hunters Point
Bayview-Hunters Point is a neighborhood that has been working hard to overcome its reputation. Historically, it’s been associated with higher rates of violent crime, gang activity, and shootings.
While the area has seen some redevelopment, economic challenges persist. If you’re not familiar with the neighborhood, it’s one of those places where you’d want to plan your visit carefully.
Locals are welcoming, and community investment is making a difference, but the reality is that crimes related to poverty and a lack of resources still happen. If you’re exploring Bayview, consider visiting during the day and sticking to well-known spots.
Major Crimes & Violent Crime
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The San Francisco Police Department publishes CompStat and Crime Dashboard reports, which track Part I crimes (e.g. homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, burglary).
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Citywide, in 2025, homicides have seen declines; for example, in the first half of 2025, Axios reported 35 % fewer homicides compared to the first half of 2024.
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However, aggregated city-level improvement does not always translate evenly across neighborhoods; some sectors, especially on the east side of the city, show persistently higher property crime rates, as per the San Francisco Chronicle.
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In BVHP specifically, public dashboards (e.g., via CivicHub maps) show ongoing incidents of assault, robbery, motor vehicle theft, weapons offenses, burglary, etc.
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According to Niche, Hunters Point is reported to have very high assault and robbery rates compared to national averages: e.g. assault ~4,600 per 100,000 (vs. ~282.7 nationally), robbery ~538.7 per 100,000 (vs ~135.5) in their dataset.
Property Crime, Theft & Burglary
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Property crime (burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft) is a major issue in BVHP. AreaVibes analyses suggest that BVHP’s general crime rates are significantly higher than national averages (e.g. “268 % higher than national average,” per one site)
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Burglaries tend to cluster more in the eastern neighborhoods of SF, including BVHP, even amid a citywide decline.
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Car break-ins, auto thefts, and theft from vehicles are frequently cited in local reporting as persistent problems in BVHP.
Gun Violence & Shootings
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Gun violence is a key concern in BVHP. The city’s Citywide Gun Violence 2020–2025 report shows fairly stable levels year-over-year for nonfatal shootings, with some fluctuations.
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In September 2025, a shooting in the India Basin area (within BVHP) wounded six people, illustrating that serious gun incidents remain a present risk.
3. South of Market (SoMa)
SoMa is a unique blend of trendy tech offices, nightlife spots, and shelters that serve the city’s homeless population. This mix can sometimes lead to safety concerns, particularly around 6th Street.
In 2024, reports of vehicle break-ins and theft are still frequent here. SoMa has some cool venues, but it’s not an area where you’d want to wander aimlessly at night, especially in the quieter parts.
If you’re heading to a club or event in the area, taking a rideshare or cab is usually the safest bet.
Property Crime Surge
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SoMa and the adjacent Mission Bay have seen a 29% increase in property crime over the same period year over year (2024 → 2025) in contrast to a citywide decline, as per Hoodline.
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In particular, larceny/theft (nonviolent theft) has spiked dramatically. In the SFPD “Southern District” (which covers SoMa plus nearby areas), from January–August 2025, larceny-theft incidents nearly doubled compared to 2024 (going from ~955 to ~1,876).
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A few retail and grocery chains (Whole Foods, Safeway, Walgreens) and major shopping centers (e.g. Metreon, San Francisco Centre) have been prominent targets of shoplifting and theft in SoMa and adjacent shopping corridors.
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One example: at the intersection of 4th & Mission / 4th & King / 4th & Bluxome, theft incidents have been especially concentrated (retail theft “hot spots”).
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For example, at Target’s Metreon location, employees report daily shoplifting attempts of items as small as wipes or vacuum cleaners.
Drug, Homelessness & Street-Level Offenses
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SoMa has seen rising drug-related offense counts. According to Metropolitan Shuttle, between 2021 and 2023, the number of drug crimes in SoMa more than doubled (from ~318 to ~656).
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The 6th Street corridor (south of Market Street) has drawn attention: in a single month, SFPD made ~218 arrests there,124 for drug charges, 18 for assault, 36 for outstanding warrants, etc, SFGATE reports.
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Public health/homelessness also intersects with crime pressures. The San Francisco Chronicle reported that, in 2025, city proposals include locating a “Recovery Cabins” homeless shelter in SoMa to combine housing with substance use treatment (e.g. for fentanyl users), recognizing the neighborhood’s centrality in existing service networks.
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Graffiti, vandalism, and tagging remain issues. In one 2025 case, a man was convicted of defacing a mural in SoMa (spray painting over it) and possessing graffiti tools.
Violent Crime & Homicides
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Citywide, gun violence is down ~22% year over year in 2025.
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There is no strong indication from news sources that SoMa is a major hot spot for violent crime beyond what the city experiences more generally; the dominant narrative is that theft and property crime, not shootings or homicide, are the principal challenge in SoMa.
2. Mission District
The Mission District is like two sides of a coin. On one hand, it’s a colorful, culturally rich neighborhood full of murals, fantastic Mexican food, and eclectic shops. On the other, certain parts—particularly near Mission and 16th Streets—have seen a spike in petty theft, car break-ins, and even occasional gang-related incidents.
Gentrification has brought some improvements, but it’s a mixed bag. During the day, most parts feel vibrant and safe, but if you’re out late, especially near the BART stations, it’s wise to keep your belongings close and stay aware of your surroundings.
Property Crime & Theft
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Historically, and currently, property crime (theft, burglary, car break-ins) is a persistent issue in Mission. Its relative safety percentile (9th) reflects this, according to CrimeGrade.
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Some areas near BART stations, commercial corridors, or high foot-traffic zones are especially vulnerable to pickpocketing, smash-and-grab thefts, and vehicle break-ins. (This is consistent with general San Francisco patterns.)
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The San Francisco Standard claims that many petty thefts go unreported, leading to undercounting in official statistics.
Violent Crime & Assaults
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While violent crime is less dominant than property crime in Mission, it is nontrivial. Estimates of violent crime costs (assault, robbery, homicide) are substantial.
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In 2025, some categories (e.g. aggravated assault) have decreased in Mission relative to 2024.
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However, due to increased public drug use and associated conflicts, experts warn that intoxication or disorderly interactions may elevate risks of violent incidents.
Drug Activity, Public Disorder & Quality-of-Life Crimes
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One of the more visible issues is public drug use / open-air drug markets. Some enforcement efforts pushed drug activity into the Mission from other neighborhoods.
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Loitering arrests have increased, and drug use in public spaces is frequently observed, especially near transit hubs.
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The boundary between “disorder” (noise, illegal vending, public intoxication) and the side effects of homelessness is often blurred in local narratives.
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Sex work has been reported in some residential stretches (e.g. Shotwell Street between 19th–21st) in the Mission, and there have been related issues of vandalism and signage referencing solicitation, as per SFGATE.
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The city’s efforts to push open drug markets out of SoMa seem to have displaced some activity into the Mission.
Hotspots & “Intensified Zones”
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16th & Mission is repeatedly flagged as a hotspot for disturbances, drug use, theft, and disorder.
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Near the 16th Street BART station, clusters of loitering, drug use, and related encounters are often reported.
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Commercial corridors and intersections (especially in late evening) tend to see more incidents due to foot traffic, night activity, and street vending.
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Some lower-income residential blocks bordering the Mission may also experience spillover effects of crime or disorder.
1. Tenderloin
If you’ve heard about the Tenderloin, you probably already know it doesn’t have the best reputation. It’s one of those areas that people warn you about before you even set foot in the city.
The Tenderloin is known for its visible drug use, open-air drug dealing, and a significant homeless population. Walking through during the day, you’ll see city initiatives at work, nonprofits trying to help, and police presence, but at night, it’s a different story.
Reports of assaults, robberies, and drug overdoses are still common in 2024. Despite attempts at revitalization, the district remains one of the more unpredictable areas.
If you’re passing through here, especially after dark, it’s smart to stay alert and maybe stick to the main roads.
Violent Crime & Homicide
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According to WE San Francisco, Tenderloin consistently features among the neighborhoods with high rates of violent crime in San Francisco.
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In 2025, there have been recent homicides in the area. For instance, the SFPD is actively investigating a recent shooting in the Tenderloin, with a suspect arrested via coordination with BART police. San Francisco Police Department +1
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Citywide gun violence reports (2020–2025) are monitored by the San Francisco Police Commission; they provide context to how the Tenderloin contributes to broader trends, as per SFPD.
Property Crime, Theft & Drug Crimes
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The Tenderloin is a hotspot for drug-related offenses (possession, dealing, open use) and is often said to account for a disproportionately large share of citywide drug crime reports.
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Property crimes such as theft, burglary, and especially theft from vehicles are common.
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The San Francisco Department of Public Safety claims that enforcement in the Tenderloin helped reduce property crime by 41% and violent crime by 23% (citywide figures) in recent years, with specific efforts focusing on increasing drug arrests in the Tenderloin.
Drug Offenses
San Francisco Standard reports that Tenderloin continues to grapple with significant drug-related issues.
In the 12 months leading up to August 23, 2023, there were 1,013 reported drug offense incidents in the neighborhood, a slight decrease from 1,031 during the same period ending in August 2022.
However, this still represents an increase from 821 incidents reported in the same period in 2019.
Open-Air Drug Markets
CBS News reports that the prevalence of open-air drug markets contributes to the neighborhood’s safety challenges. Despite increased enforcement efforts, including a multi-agency crackdown in 2024, drug activity persists.
Tips for Staying Safe in San Francisco
Now that you’ve got a sense of which areas to approach with caution, let’s talk about some practical tips to help you feel more at ease as you explore the city.
1. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
San Francisco is a busy, bustling city, like Los Angeles, but even in crowded places like Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf, pickpocketing can be a problem. Stay alert to what’s happening around you, especially if you’re in a tourist-heavy area.
2. Don’t Walk Alone at Night in Certain Areas
San Francisco can be beautiful at night, but it’s best to avoid walking alone after dark in districts like Tenderloin, SoMa, and parts of the Mission. If you’re heading home late, a rideshare or taxi is worth the extra few dollars.
3. Secure Your Belongings, Especially in Your Car
Car break-ins have been a persistent issue in San Francisco. If you’re driving, never leave anything visible in your car—not even a jacket or shopping bag. Even if it’s just for a quick stop, thieves are quick to take advantage.
4. Use Trusted Transportation Options
Walking can be great during the day, but when the sun sets, it’s safer to use rideshares like Uber or Lyft, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the neighborhood. Public transportation is generally safe, but late at night, it’s better to err on the side of caution.
5. Stay Informed with Real-Time Updates
There are several apps and resources available that show real-time crime reports and alerts. Apps like Citizen can help you stay updated on incidents happening nearby, which can be handy if you’re exploring new areas.
What’s the City Doing to Improve Safety?
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Despite the challenges, San Francisco is far from giving up on making the city safer. Here’s a quick look at some of the ongoing efforts:
More Police Presence in High-Crime Areas
San Francisco’s police department has ramped up patrols in places like Tenderloin and SoMa. They’re also using surveillance tech to monitor problem spots, hoping to deter crime before it happens.
Community Support Services
Nonprofits and city-funded organizations are working tirelessly to help those struggling with homelessness, addiction, and mental health issues. Providing resources to vulnerable populations remains a priority to address the root causes of crime.
Revitalization and Development
Efforts to clean up and redevelop areas like the Civic Center and parts of the Mission are underway. The idea is to enhance the environment, making it safer and more welcoming for both locals and tourists.
Methodology
- I gathered the latest crime statistics, community reports, and insights from reputable sources like local news, government websites, and safety apps focused on San Francisco in 2024.
- Reviewed firsthand accounts from forums, social media groups, and traveler experiences to understand current concerns in specific neighborhoods.
- Leveraged local guides and recent news reports to cross-reference known crime hotspots, especially in areas like the Tenderloin, SoMa, and Mission District.
- Analyzed historical crime data to identify patterns and persistent issues in various districts. This helped confirm whether older concerns still hold true in 2024.
- Fact-checked data across multiple sources to ensure accuracy and to avoid outdated or sensationalized information.
Final Thoughts
San Francisco has its rough edges, but it’s also a city full of life, creativity, and beauty. From the Golden Gate Bridge to the Painted Ladies, there’s so much to experience. Being cautious doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all that SF has to offer.
Just keep your wits about you, use common sense, and plan your outings with a bit of foresight. That way, you can focus on what really matters: soaking in the magic of the city.
References
- sfstandard.com – UN Plaza was long the epicenter of San Francisco’s drug crisis. Skaters have brought a new vibe
- sfist.com – SFPD Touts 23 Arrests Last Week in U.N. Plaza Drug Crackdown ‘Night Operations’
- abc7news.com – From clean skate park to ‘dangerous’ drug market: The different faces of SF’s UN Plaza
- sanfranciscopolice.org – Crime Dashboard
- sfstandard.com – ‘A forgotten area’: Residents demand police action at ongoing open-air drug market
- kqed.org – ‘Poorly Prepared’: SF Civil Grand Jury Slams City for Not Protecting Residents From Toxic Contamination
- travellemming.com – Is San Francisco Safe? (Honest Advice, By a Local)
- kqed.org – Advocates Rally at Fatal Crash Site in SoMa, Demanding Safer Streets
- sfstandard.com – San Francisco drug crisis: Here’s where crime reports are rising
- cbsnews.com – San Francisco drug crackdown in Tenderloin producing results
- sanfranciscopolice.org – SFPD Makes 57 Arrests in Tenderloin Fugitive Recovery Enforcement Operation 24-064
- the-sun.com – San Francisco police unveil high-tech drone force used to hunt down and capture thieves leading to ‘numerous arrests’
