Los Angeles, like any major urban center, has areas where crime remains a significant concern. As of 2024, certain neighborhoods in the city continue to experience elevated crime rates, including violent incidents, gang activity, and property theft.
For both residents and visitors, being aware of which areas to avoid can be crucial for personal safety. In this guide, I will highlight the neighborhoods in LA where heightened caution is advised, based on current crime trends and local reports.
Let’s get right into it.
Key Takeaways
- Skid Row, South Los Angeles, and Westlake continue to have elevated crime rates, particularly related to gang violence, theft, and assaults.
- Popular areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach see spikes in petty theft and scams, especially after dark, making vigilance essential.
- Many neighborhoods, including Koreatown, DTLA, and the Fashion District, become riskier after sunset—stick to well-lit, busy areas and use reliable transportation.
9. Fashion District
Location: Downtown Los Angeles.
The Fashion District is famous for its wholesale markets, attracting both shoppers and vendors. After all, LA is one of the richest cities in the U.S. However, its busy nature also makes it a magnet for pickpockets and other petty criminals.
What to Watch Out For
Daytime shopping is generally safe, but as the area clears out in the evening, the risk of muggings and theft increases. If you’re here for the deals, keep an eye on your belongings and avoid staying late into the evening.
Violent Crime Rate
According to Crime Grade, the Fashion District has a violent crime rate of approximately 21.62 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Property Crime Rate
Crime Grade stats also show that property crimes in the Fashion District occur at a rate of about 76.18 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Total Crime Rate
The overall crime rate in the Fashion District is approximately 242.9 incidents per 1,000 residents.
Comparison to the National Average
The Fashion District’s crime rates are significantly higher than the national average, with violent crimes being 204% higher and property crimes 87% higher, as per AreaVibes.
Recent Crime Incidents
In early November 2024, there were multiple reported incidents in the Fashion District, including robberies and assaults, SpotCrime statistics show.
8. Koreatown
Location: Central Los Angeles, west of Downtown.
Koreatown is famous for its nightlife and culinary scene, but with the excitement also comes an increase in crime. The dense population and bustling activity make it a target for criminals, particularly late at night.
2024 Safety Overview
Koreatown remains popular, but incidents of theft, assaults, and gang-related activity have been on the rise.
Now, let’s take a look at statistics provided by Crime Grade.
Overall Crime Rate
Koreatown has an overall crime rate of 115.9 incidents per 1,000 residents annually. This places the neighborhood in the 7th percentile for safety, indicating that 93% of neighborhoods in the U.S. are safer.
Violent Crime Rate
The violent crime rate in Koreatown is 12.23 incidents per 1,000 residents per year. This includes offenses such as assault, robbery, rape, and murder.
Property Crime Rate
Property crimes, including theft, vehicle theft, and burglary, occur at a rate of 47.52 incidents per 1,000 residents annually in Koreatown.
Assault Incidents
Assaults are reported at a rate of 7.733 incidents per 1,000 residents each year in Koreatown.
Robbery Incidents
Robberies occur at a rate of 3.949 incidents per 1,000 residents annually in the neighborhood.
7. Watts
Location: Southeast Los Angeles.
Watts is known for the iconic Watts Towers, but it also has a reputation for crime rooted in gang activity and economic struggles. The neighborhood has been trying to turn things around, but 2024 crime reports indicate ongoing issues.
Navigating Watts Safely
While daytime visits to see the Watts Towers are generally safe, the surrounding area can become dangerous after dark. Reports of gang violence and robberies remain concerning.
Stick to daylight hours and well-trafficked areas if you’re planning a visit.
LAPD Online provided the following statistics that further prove troubling crime rates:
Overall Crime Rate
Watts experiences a total crime rate that is 75% higher than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 25 chance of becoming a victim of crime in this neighborhood.
Violent Crime Rate
The violent crime rate in Watts is 367% higher than the national average, indicating a significantly elevated risk of violent offenses compared to other areas.
Property Crime Rate
Property crimes in Watts are 19% higher than the national average, highlighting concerns regarding theft, burglary, and related offenses.
Comparison to Los Angeles Citywide Crime Rates
While Watts has higher crime rates than the national average, it is considered safer than 26% of cities in California, suggesting that certain areas within the state have even higher crime rates.
Year-over-Year Crime Trend in Los Angeles
Overall crime in Los Angeles has increased by 23% year over year, reflecting a broader trend that may also impact neighborhoods like Watts.
6. Compton
Location: South of Downtown Los Angeles.
Compton has worked hard to change its image, with improvements in policing and community programs. Yet, certain parts of Compton continue to experience elevated levels of violent crime.
What to Know in 2024
Compton is safer than it was a decade ago, but reports of shootings, assaults, and robberies still surface, particularly after dark.
Overall Crime Rate
According to NeighborhoodScout, Compton has a crime rate of 38 per 1,000 residents, placing it among the communities with the highest crime rates in the United States.
Property Crime Rate
NeighborhoodScout statistics also show that residents have a 1 in 37 chance of becoming a victim of property crime, which includes burglary, larceny over fifty dollars, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
Violent Crime Rate
City Data reports that the violent crime rate in Compton is 619.9 per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than the U.S. average of 219.8.
Sex Offender Ratio
As of November 12, 2024, there were 264 registered sex offenders living in Compton, resulting in a ratio of 369 residents to every sex offender, as per statistics.
5. East Los Angeles
Location: East of Downtown Los Angeles.
East LA is rich in culture and history, home to a predominantly Latino community. However, it has been grappling with gang violence for decades.
Despite being a lively area with deep roots, certain parts have higher crime rates, especially related to gang activities.
2024 Crime Landscape
While community programs have made strides in fostering positive change, violent crime remains an issue in some neighborhoods.
Drive-by shootings and robberies have been reported more frequently in 2024. It’s advisable to stay on main roads and avoid wandering into unfamiliar areas, especially at night.
Overall Crime Rate in East Los Angeles
The crime rate in East Los Angeles is approximately 51.39 incidents per 1,000 residents during a standard year, as per Crime Grade. This suggests that residents have about a 1 in 19 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
Violent Crime Rate
Crime Grade statistics also show that violent crimes in East Los Angeles are reported at a rate of 6.516 per 1,000 residents. This includes offenses such as assault, robbery, rape, and murder.
Property Crime Rate
Property crimes occur at a rate of 26.53 per 1,000 residents in East Los Angeles. This category encompasses burglary, theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
Comparison to the National Average
AreaVibes statistics show that East Los Angeles has a total crime rate that is 93% higher than the national average. Specifically, violent crimes are 114% higher than the national average, indicating a significantly elevated risk in this area.
Recent Crime Incidents
In early November 2024, there were multiple shooting incidents reported in East Los Angeles, including one on November 6 at Dennison Street and Hicks Avenue, and another on November 4 at the same location, SpotCrime reports.
4. Westlake and MacArthur Park
Location: West of Downtown Los Angeles.
Westlake and the adjacent MacArthur Park area have long struggled with crime, particularly drug trafficking and gang activity. Despite efforts to revitalize the area, crime rates remain higher than the city average.
What’s Happening in 2024?
Even with a heightened police presence, MacArthur Park continues to experience drug-related activities and violent incidents.
In the surrounding Westlake neighborhood, assaults and thefts have increased, especially in poorly lit areas. If you’re curious about visiting, limit your exploration to daytime hours.
Increase in Homeless Encampment Complaints
Between January 1 and August 31, 2024, Westlake recorded 4,902 reports of homeless encampments, accounting for approximately 8.4% of all such calls in Los Angeles, as per Xtown. This surge highlights growing concerns about homelessness in the area.
Recent Crime Incidents
In late October 2024, several assaults were reported in the Westlake area, including incidents at Sunset Blvd and Echo Park Ave, and Sunset Blvd and Douglas St., SpotCrime reports.
Violent Crime Rate in Westlake
According to Crime Grade, the violent crime rate stands at 12.94 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, with the northwest part of the neighborhood considered relatively safer.
3. Hollywood
Location: Central Los Angeles, northwest of Downtown.
Hollywood may be synonymous with glitz and glamour, but it’s also a place where crime often hides in plain sight. The area around Hollywood Boulevard is bustling with tourists during the day, but as night falls, it transforms.
Reports of pickpocketing, scams, and even violent altercations have increased, especially around popular landmarks like the Walk of Fame.
2024 Safety Concerns
Hollywood’s nightlife scene draws large crowds, which also attracts criminal activity. Opportunistic thieves prey on tourists, while less-traveled side streets can quickly become dangerous after dark.
If you’re planning a visit, stick to the main attractions, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid wandering into less-populated areas.
Recent Crime Incidents
Between October 27 and November 8, 2024, Hollywood experienced multiple incidents, including robberies, assaults, burglaries, and thefts, as per SpotCrime.
Citywide Violent Crime Reduction
In 2023, Los Angeles saw a 3.2% decrease in violent crimes compared to 2022, according to Mayor of Los Angeles.
Burglaries in 2024
Los Angeles Magazine reports that as of September 2024, there have been 9,226 reported burglaries in Los Angeles.
2. Venice Beach
@topmanhpr5y #police #homeless #venicebeach ♬ original sound – Santa_Monica.Closeup
Location: Westside of Los Angeles, along the Pacific Ocean.
Venice Beach, once synonymous with its bohemian charm and eclectic boardwalk, has become a hotspot for crime in recent years. The area is known for its large transient population, which has only grown since the pandemic.
The influx of tourists mingling with the local homeless population has led to a rise in thefts, assaults, and drug-related incidents.
What’s Changed This Year?
The local government has made attempts to address safety concerns, but Venice Beach remains a risky area after sunset.
Assaults and property crimes have been reported more frequently in the quieter areas away from the beach. If you’re visiting, it’s best to stay in crowded, well-lit sections and avoid exploring alone after dark.
Overall Crime Rate
According to AreaVibes, Venice Beach has an overall crime rate that is 151% higher than the national average, with violent crimes 177% higher than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 18 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
Violent Crime Rate
The violent crime rate in Venice Beach is above average, with a grade of D+, as per Ovogo. This includes higher-than-average rates of murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault compared to Los Angeles and national averages.
Property Crime Rate
Ovogo statistics also show that property crime in Venice Beach is rated high, with a grade of D. This encompasses burglary, larceny, auto theft, and arson, all of which are higher than the Los Angeles and national averages.
Recent Crime Incidents
Recent reports by SpotCrime indicate incidents such as assaults in the Venice Canals area and on Strongs Drive, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in specific locations within Venice Beach.
1. Skid Row
Location: Downtown Los Angeles, bounded by Los Angeles Street (west), Central Avenue (east), 4th Street (north), and 8th Street (south)
Skid Row is notorious for being one of the most challenging neighborhoods in Los Angeles. For decades, it has been the epicenter of LA’s homelessness crisis, with thousands of people living on the streets.
The area has a concentration of social services aimed at supporting those in need, but the sheer density of vulnerable individuals has led to a high crime rate.
What’s the Situation in 2024?
Despite ongoing efforts to revitalize the area, Skid Row remains fraught with issues. The prevalence of drug use, assaults, and theft is alarmingly high. As of 2024, the LAPD has reported an increase in violent incidents, particularly at night.
The streets are poorly lit, and the presence of large encampments can make navigating the area unpredictable. Visitors should avoid this part of downtown altogether unless absolutely necessary, especially after dark.
Violent Crime Rate
Crime Grade statistics show that Skid Row experiences a violent crime rate of 48.13 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, placing it in the 1st percentile for safety, meaning 99% of neighborhoods are safer.
Property Crime Rate
Statistics also show the property crime rate in Skid Row stands at 97.49 incidents per 1,000 residents per year, indicating a significantly higher rate compared to national averages.
Comparison to National Crime Rates
According to AreaVibes, Skid Row’s crime rates are 103% higher than the national average, with violent crimes being 201% higher.
Recent Crime Incidents
SpotCrime reports that in July 2024 alone, Skid Row reported multiple incidents, including shootings, assaults, and thefts, highlighting ongoing safety concerns in the area.
Safety Tips for Exploring Los Angeles
- Stay Informed: Before visiting any neighborhood, check recent crime reports and updates.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your environment, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas.
- Stick to Daylight Hours: If exploring areas with higher crime rates, limit your visits to daytime.
- Travel in Groups: There’s safety in numbers, especially after dark.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep valuables hidden to avoid attracting attention.
- Use Reputable Transportation: Stick to trusted rideshare apps or licensed taxis, especially at night.
Methodology
- I reviewed recent crime reports and statistics from sources like the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and local crime databases to identify neighborhoods with consistently high crime rates in 2024. This included analyzing incidents of violent crime, property theft, and gang activity.
- I cross-referenced findings with updates from reputable news outlets such as the Los Angeles Times and neighborhood-specific publications. This helped confirm crime patterns and identify emerging issues within specific areas.
- To get a ground-level perspective, I examined discussions on local forums and community groups. Residents’ firsthand experiences provided insight into areas that may not always appear in official crime reports but still pose safety concerns.
Summary
Los Angeles is an exciting and diverse city, but it’s also one where caution can make the difference between a great experience and a risky one. By staying informed and taking sensible precautions, you can enjoy the best of LA while keeping yourself safe.
References
- crimegrade.org – The Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Los Angeles, CA
- areavibes.com – Most Dangerous Neighborhoods In Los Angeles, CA
- spotcrime.com – Crime Map for Los Angeles, CA
- lapdonline.org – News Years Eve Tragedies On the Streets of South Los Angeles – Three Separate Fatal Traffic Collisions Within an Hour
- neighborhoodscout.com – Los Angeles, CA Crime Rates
- city-data.com – Crime rate in Los Angeles, California (CA): murders, rapes, robberies, assaults, burglaries, thefts, auto thefts, arson, law enforcement employees, police officers, crime map
- xtown.la – Westlake emerges as the epicenter of homeless encampment complaints
- mayor.lacity.gov – LAPD Releases End of Year Crime Statistics for the City of Los Angeles 2023
- lamag.com – LAPD Crime Statistics Back Online Showing Nearly 10,000 Burglaries in 2024
- ovogo.com – Is Venice, Los Angeles, Safe to Live or Visit in 2024?
