New York City. The Big Apple. The city that never sleeps. For many, it’s a place of dreams, bright lights, and endless opportunities. But let’s be real for a second: not every corner of NYC is all Broadway glitz and Central Park charm.
Some neighborhoods can be downright dangerous, which is not a surprise since New York is definitely one of the most dangerous cities in the US. While Mott Haven, The Bronx is the most dangerous neighborhood in NYC, there are other ones in which you should take special care.
Here’s a look at the rougher sides of the city, the places you might want to think twice about before wandering into at night.
| Rank | Neighborhood | Borough | Summary of Crime and Safety Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Rockaway | Queens | Seasonal crime spikes; notable increases in grand larceny and burglaries. |
| 12 | Tremont | Bronx | High crime rates, especially violent crimes; community efforts to improve safety. |
| 11 | Canarsie | Brooklyn | Property crimes are common; improvements underway but challenges persist. |
| 10 | Fordham | Bronx | High rates of theft and property crime; vigilance is crucial. |
| 9 | East New York | Brooklyn | High violent crime rates; ongoing community efforts to enhance safety. |
| 8 | Fort Greene/Clinton Hill | Brooklyn | Cultural vibrancy contrasts with serious crime rates; some residents feel safe. |
| 7 | Jamaica | Queens | Plagued by various violent crimes; diverse area with safety concerns. |
| 6 | Bedford-Stuyvesant (Bed-Stuy) | Brooklyn | High crime rates, especially violent crimes; historical crime issues persist. |
| 5 | East Harlem | Manhattan | High poverty rate, gang violence, and drug-related crimes; overall crime remains high. |
| 4 | Soundview | Bronx | Significant violent and property crime rates; economic challenges persist. |
| 3 | Brownsville | Brooklyn | One of the most dangerous neighborhoods; high unemployment and crime rates. |
| 2 | Hunts Point | Bronx | Extremely high violent crime rates; ongoing economic and safety issues. |
| 1 | Mott Haven | Bronx | Highest serious crime rate; severe socioeconomic challenges and harsh living conditions. |
Methodology
- I gathered crime statistics from official sources like the NYPD, and city crime reports to identify trends in violent and property crime rates across different neighborhoods.
- I combined the data to create detailed profiles of each neighborhood, highlighting crime types, historical trends, and community efforts to improve safety.
13. Rockaway, Queens
Rockaway experiences seasonal tourism, which impacts crime rates. Off-season spikes in property theft and violent incidents are common. It’s a unique dynamic that makes safety a seasonal concern.
Overall Increase in Crime
- As per Rockawave, crime across New York City has risen by 35% in the seven major crime categories (murder, robbery, rape, felony assault, burglary, grand larceny, and grand larceny auto) compared to the previous year. In Rockaway specifically, crime has increased by around 7.5% in these major categories.
Detailed Crime Statistics for Rockaway
- The piece by Rockawave also states that the 100th Precinct (covering Broad Channel to Beach 59th Street) has seen a 36% increase in the seven major crimes, up from 231 to 315 incidents.
- Grand larcenies in the 100th Precinct have increased by 46% citywide and are a significant contributor to the rise in crime.
- Burglaries have increased by 50% in the 100th Precinct, compared to 38% citywide.
- Grand theft auto incidents have surged by 318% in the 100th Precinct, from 11 to 46 incidents.
Queens Crime Increase in Early 2024
- According to a report by QNS, major crimes in Queens, including Rockaway, saw a slight increase in the first month of 2024 compared to 2023.
Drug and Firearm Trafficking Operation Dismantled
As per QueensDA, in September 2024, a significant criminal operation in Far Rockaway, Queens, was brought to an end following a six-month investigation into drug and gun trafficking. Five individuals were indicted for their roles in this operation, which included the illegal sale of firearms and narcotics, such as ghost guns and controlled substances.
The defendants, including Jermaine Wilkinson-Morgan, Nashawn Wilson, and Carlos Menendez, faced multiple charges ranging from conspiracy to criminal possession and sale of firearms and drugs. If convicted, they face sentences of up to 20 years in prison.
This investigation is part of ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to crack down on violent crimes and reduce the flow of illegal firearms in the community. The case highlights the growing concern over ghost guns, which are untraceable firearms, increasingly being used in violent crimes across the city.
12. Tremont, Bronx
Tremont deals with high crime rates, but there’s a strong community effort to improve safety and quality of life. The neighborhood is actively fighting against its dangerous reputation, striving for a better future.
General Crime Rates
- Tremont’s crime rates are significantly higher than the national average. The neighborhood has crime rates that are 65% higher than the national average, with violent crimes being 326% higher according AreaVibes.
Serious Crime Rate
- Judging by the sources from NYU Furman Center, the serious crime rate, which includes both property and violent crimes, was reported as 25.2 serious crimes per 1,000 residents in 2023. This is significantly higher compared to 14.2 serious crimes per 1,000 residents in 2024.
Overall Crime Data
- The piece by Dahlcore states that this neighborhood reports a high crime rate, with 1,223 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, and residents have a 1 in 35 chance of being a victim of crime.
Teenagers Stabbed in Tremont Park Near School
Bronx News reported that, on the evening of October 9, 2024, three teenagers were stabbed in a park near 1919 Prospect Avenue, in the Tremont neighborhood of the Bronx. The victims, two 15-year-old boys and a 16-year-old boy, were attacked just steps away from a local school.
According to the NYPD, the injuries included a stab wound to one boy’s back, another to the torso, and the third to the thigh. Fortunately, all three were quickly taken to the hospital, where they are receiving treatment for their injuries.
While a person of interest has been taken into custody, no formal arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. Local residents have expressed concern, with one community member calling the incident a “bad look” for the neighborhood, urging that conflicts should be resolved through communication, not violence.
11. Canarsie, Brooklyn
Canarsie, Brooklyn
8702 Ave LTwo men shot. One was hit in the leg and his condition was judged not life-threatening. No word on the other’s status.https://t.co/nJq2cSimsn pic.twitter.com/kP9G4bFDQb
— Crime In NYC (@CrimeInNYC) June 8, 2024
Canarsie has its fair share of property crimes, but recent improvements offer a glimmer of hope. The neighborhood is working towards a safer environment, though challenges remain. It’s a community in transition.
Crime Stats
According to statistics sourced by AreaVibes:
- Violent Crime: The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Canarsie is 1 in 162.
- Property Crime: The chance of being a victim of property crime in Canarsie is 1 in 53.
- Overall Crime: The chance of being a victim of any crime in Canarsie is 1 in 40.
Property and Violent Crimes
- The serious crime rate, including property and violent crimes, was 9.3 serious crimes per 1,000 residents, as per NYU Furman Center.
Two Teens Shot Near Canarsie School, Suspect Arrested
According to amNY, in late September 2024, a violent incident occurred in Canarsie, Brooklyn, when two teenage boys, both 17 years old, were shot near a middle school at Avenue J and East 81st Street. The shooting took place just after 1:45 p.m., causing a lockdown at a nearby junior high school.
One of the teens sustained gunshot wounds to his lower body and right leg, while the other was also injured but managed to seek medical care at a hospital independently.
The police quickly arrested one suspect, but the situation remains under investigation. This incident happened just a day after another shooting near a school in the area, intensifying concerns about rising gun violence around schools in Canarsie. Authorities are urging anyone with more information to come forward.
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10. Fordham, Bronx
Fordham is a bustling commercial hub, yet it faces high rates of theft and property crime. The busy streets are a double-edged sword, bringing both opportunity and danger. It’s a place where vigilance is key.
Crime Statistics in Fordham
- As per statistics provided by Vitalianolaw, there is a steep rise in grand larceny cases by 97.5% in the 47th Precinct, which covers areas such as University Heights, Morris Heights, and Fordham.
- AreaVibes statistics show that Fordham’s crime rates are significantly higher than the national average. Violent crimes in Fordham are 328% higher than the national average, and residents have a 1 in 24 chance of becoming a crime victim.
Fordham Shooting Leaves One Dead, Another Critically Injured
In September 2024, a tragic shooting in the Fordham neighborhood of the Bronx left one man dead and another critically injured, as per Bronx News. The incident occurred near East Fordham Road and Morris Avenue, where a fight reportedly broke out among individuals living inside an abandoned bus. The fight escalated into gunfire, with witnesses hearing multiple shots.
9. East New York, Brooklyn
East New York struggles with high violent crime rates and significant economic challenges. The community is constantly working against the tide to improve safety and quality of life. It’s an uphill battle, but one that’s fought every day.
Crime Statistics (75th Precinct – East New York)
The following data sourced from the NYPD’s Borough and Precinct Crime Statistics, particularly from the 75th Precinct, which covers East New York shows the following:
- Murder: 15 incidents
- Rape: 45 incidents
- Robbery: 250 incidents
- Felony Assault: 350 incidents
- Burglary: 200 incidents
- Grand Larceny: 500 incidents
- Grand Larceny Auto: 150 incidents
16-Year-Old Boy Shot in East New York Deli, Police Search for Suspects
In early October 2024, a 16-year-old boy was shot inside a deli located on Blake Avenue in East New York, Brooklyn, Brooklyn News reported. The incident occurred shortly after midnight, with the teenager sustaining a gunshot wound to his left leg.
Authorities have reported that two suspects are currently at large. One suspect was seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, red and black sneakers, and Christmas-themed pants featuring a Looney Tunes character. The other was dressed in a black-hooded Carhartt jacket with gray and white sneakers. Fortunately, the victim was quickly transported to a hospital, where he is expected to recover.
Police are continuing their search for the suspects, and anyone with information is urged to contact the authorities. The incident is under investigation as part of ongoing efforts to address crime in the area.
8. Fort Greene/Clinton Hill, Brooklyn
Fort Greene and Clinton Hill are known for their cultural vibrancy, yet they face a serious crime rate of 17.6 per 1,000 residents.
The contrast between the artsy vibe and the crime statistics is stark. It’s a neighborhood that embodies the city’s contradictions.
Violent Crime Rate
- Violent crime in the 88th Precinct, which includes Fort Greene and Clinton Hill, increased by 140%, rising from 5 to 12 incidents, as per Brownstoner.
Serious Crime Rate
- As the statistics by Furman Center show, the serious crime rate, including both property and violent crimes, in Fort Greene/Brooklyn Heights was 18.6 serious crimes per 1,000 residents.
Perception of Law Enforcement
- It’s not all grim, judging by Niche reports, since 43% of respondents believe that the police are very visible and very responsive in Clinton Hill, and 86 of respondents claim they feel safe in this neighborhood.
Crime Spike Hits Fort Greene and Clinton Hill with Burglaries and Violent Attacks
Fort Greene and Clinton Hill in Brooklyn have experienced a wave of crimes in recent weeks, with multiple incidents reported throughout September and October 2024.
Brooklyn Paper reports that, on September 24, a 16-year-old was arrested for a two-day crime spree during which he allegedly burglarized four businesses in Fort Greene, including Hungry Ghost Coffee and SmashBurger. The thief smashed windows to gain entry and stole cash and electronic devices from the establishments.
In another incident, a 46-year-old bicyclist was brutally attacked by three men in the early hours of October 14 while riding near Fulton Street and St. Felix Street. The attackers used a glass bottle and a scooter as weapons, leaving the victim with significant injuries.
7. Jamaica, Queens
Jamaica, Queens
108th Ave & 160th St
Outside “South Jamaica” (NYCHA)12-year-old girl shot in the arm.https://t.co/mCD4vgvKSa pic.twitter.com/bsXhLbWeH7
— Crime In NYC (@CrimeInNYC) May 16, 2024
Jamaica in Queens is a diverse area, yet it’s plagued by a variety of crimes. The murder rate here stands at 0.0154 per 1,000 residents.
Violent crimes like assault, robbery, and theft are more common than anyone would like. Safety is a significant concern.
Overall Crime Statistics for New York City in January 2024
- There are ongoing reductions achieved in shootings, homicides, vehicle thefts, and other major crimes, as per NYPD official data.
Recent Crime Trends
- As per QNS, the number of murders was down in northern Queens and up in southern Queens during the 28-day period from March 11 to April 7, 2024.
General Crime Statistics for Queens
- Queens has significantly fewer violent crimes than the Bronx and Brooklyn, as Tsigler Law reports.
Two Injured in Botched Robbery and Shooting in Jamaica, Queens
In late September 2024, a botched robbery in Jamaica, Queens, led to a shooting that left two men injured, QNS reported. The incident occurred near a playground at 138th Street and 91st Avenue around 2:10 a.m. on September 29.
According to the police, three suspects, including one identified only as “Carlos,” attempted to rob two men, ages 21 and 26, before the situation escalated. When the robbery went wrong, the suspects opened fire, wounding the victims in their legs. After the shooting, the suspects fled the scene in a green GMC Envoy.
Both victims were transported to Jamaica Hospital and are in stable condition. As of early October, police are still searching for the suspects, releasing images to the public in hopes of identifying them. Crime in the area has been on the rise, with the 103rd Precinct reporting an increase in shootings and robberies compared to the previous year.
6. Bedford-Stuyvesant (Bed-Stuy), Brooklyn
Bed-Stuy might have a rich cultural backdrop, but it’s also grappling with crime rates 24% higher than the national average and remains one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
The high poverty rate doesn’t help either. Historical crime issues persist, making it a neighborhood where caution is a constant companion.
Crime Complaints (Year to Date 2024 vs. 2023)
Murder
- 2024: 2
- 2023: 5
- Change: -60.0%
Rape
- 2024: 12
- 2023: 13
- Change: -7.7%
Robbery
- 2024: 88
- 2023: 93
- Change: -5.4%
Felony Assault
- 2024: 203
- 2023: 201
- Change: +1.0%
Burglary
- 2024: 91
- 2023: 100
- Change: -9.0%
Grand Larceny
- 2024: 172
- 2023: 199
- Change: -13.6%
Grand Larceny Auto (GLA)
- 2024: 45
- 2023: 57
- Change: -21.1%
Pedestrian Killed in Hit-and-Run in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn
According to Shore News Network, on October 12, 2024, a tragic hit-and-run incident took place in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. A man was fatally struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Bedford Avenue and Lafayette Avenue. The incident occurred in the early hours, around 3:09 a.m., and the driver of the vehicle fled the scene immediately after hitting the pedestrian.
When officers arrived in response to a 911 call, they found the victim with severe head and body trauma. He was rushed to NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The identity of the victim has not yet been released as authorities notify his family. The NYPD is actively investigating the case, but no arrests have been made so far.
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5. East Harlem
East Harlem, with its rich cultural heritage, faces a poverty rate of 31.2% and a serious crime rate of 22.3 per 1,000 residents in 2022. The vibrant community is often overshadowed by gang violence and drug-related crimes.
So, is Harlem safe to live in these days? Despite some improvements, it remains a tough place to call home.
Violent Crime Rate
- In 2024, violent crime in East Harlem has seen significant attention due to various incidents. For example, there have been several reported assaults and attempted rapes, such as the case that was reported inside a store on Madison Avenue and East 108 Street in East Harlem a month ago, which Fox 5 NY thoroughly covered.
Assaults
- Assault rates in Harlem, including East Harlem, have been noted to remain high, while other major crimes have decreased, as per New York Times.
Auto Thefts
- There has been an increase in auto thefts in Harlem as of early 2024, based on NYPD data that Patch reported.
Overall Crime Rate
- According to AreaVibes, East Harlem has a total crime rate of 4,336 crimes per 100,000 residents, which is significantly higher than the national average and other areas in New York.
- The NYU Furman Center notes that the serious crime rate in East Harlem was 21.1 serious crimes per 1,000 residents in 2023, indicating a need to monitor trends for 2024.
East Harlem Shooting Near Park Leaves Man Hospitalized
On the night of October 6, 2024, an East Harlem man was shot near East 113th Street and 1st Avenue, amNY reported. The shooting occurred around 8 p.m. near a local park, leading to the hospitalization of the victim.
Two individuals were taken into custody for questioning in connection with the incident. Police are investigating the case, but further details regarding the motive and identities involved remain undisclosed.
4. Soundview, South Bronx
Soundview in the South Bronx doesn’t fare much better. Violent crimes are a grim reality, with a crime rate of 4.130 per 1,000 residents. Imagine dealing with an incident every 1 hour and 37 minutes.
Economic challenges are ever-present, making life here a daily grind against adversity. So is South Bronx safe? Not really with this crime rate, and although Soundview is a beautiful neighborhood, it has its fair share of problems.
Once again, AreaVibes comes to the rescue with some hard, evidence-based stats:
Overall Crime Rate
- The chance of being a victim of any crime in Soundview is 1 in 31.
Violent Crimes
- The chance of being a victim of violent crime is 1 in 76.
- Violent crimes in Soundview are 260% higher than the national average.
Property Crimes
The chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 50.
17-Year-Old Fatally Shot in Soundview, Bronx
On September 21, 2024, Sincere Campbell, a 17-year-old honor student, was fatally shot near his home in the Soundview neighborhood of the Bronx, Bronx News reported. The incident occurred just steps away from a local deli, leaving his family and the community heartbroken.
Campbell, described as a hardworking young man with dreams of becoming an engineer, was beloved by those close to him. As the NYPD continues its search for the shooter, the community has rallied to support his grieving family.
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3. Brownsville, Brooklyn
Brownsville has earned its reputation as one of NYC’s most dangerous neighborhoods and one of more dangerous parts of Brooklyn. With a serious crime rate of 18.9 per 1,000 residents in 2022, it’s a place where safety isn’t a given.
The high unemployment rate and low median household income only add to the struggles here. Living in Brownsville means dealing with poverty, crime, and the constant challenge of just getting by.
Overall Crime Rates
According to AreaVibes statistics:
- Brownsville crime rates are 60% higher than the national average.
- Violent crimes in Brownsville are 337% higher than the national average.
Violent Crime Rate
- The violent crime score in Brownsville is 89.4, compared to the US average of 22.7, judging by the reports by Gitnux.
Murder Rates
- Brownsville has endured a significant portion of Brooklyn’s homicides, with 20% of all Brooklyn’s 55 homicides this year occurring in the 73rd Precinct, as NY Daily News reports.
Total Crime Rate
- According to Dahlcore, Brownsville has a total reported crime rate of 2,810 per 100,000 people, with a violent crime rate of 1,264 per 100,000.
Police Investigating Recent Violence in Brownsville, Brooklyn
Brooklyn Paper reported that, in early October 2024, police were called to the scene of a shooting in Brownsville, Brooklyn, where a 35-year-old man was injured. The incident occurred in an apartment building on Legion Street, where the victim was shot in the leg.
Emergency responders transported him to Brookdale Hospital Medical Center, where he was treated and remains in stable condition. The two suspects fled the scene on foot, heading toward Empire Boulevard, and are still at large. Police described one suspect as wearing a brown jacket and the other in a purple hooded sweatshirt. No arrests have been made as the investigation continues.
This shooting is part of a broader pattern of violent incidents in the Brownsville area, though the number of shootings has decreased by 35% compared to the previous year. Still, the community has faced other recent violent events, including a separate shooting outside the Howard Houses and a stabbing incident involving teenagers.
2. Hunts Point, The Bronx
Hunts Point deals with a serious crime rate of 27.9 per 1,000 residents. Safety and economic issues are ongoing battles for the community. It’s a place where danger feels ever-present, and Hunts Point crime issues have kept persisting this year.
Overall Crime Rates
- Hunts Point’s crime rates are 160% higher than the national average, as per AreaVibes.
- Violent crimes in Hunts Point are 572% higher than the national average.
- In Hunts Point, you have a 1 in 21 chance of becoming a victim of any crime.
Serious Crimes
- The serious crime rate, including property and violent crimes, was 31.5 serious crimes per 1,000 residents, as NYU Furman Center reported.
Safety Scores
- Hunts Point scored 26/100 in total crime safety at Ovogo, indicating below satisfactory safety levels.
Violent Crime Rate
- Tsiger Law reported some disturbing stats regarding the violent crime rate:
- The violent crime rate in Hunts Point and Longwood was 13.6 per 1,000 residents.
- Compared to the Bronx’s rate of 8.9 and the city’s rate of 5.1.
Crime Trends
- Still, Bronx Times gave us some piece of good news. They reported that in the 41st Precinct, which includes Hunts Point and Longwood, there was a decrease of 31.7% in crime rates in early 2024 compared to the same period in the previous year.
Hunts Point, The Bronx, Sees Surge in Violent and Property Crimes in September 2024
In September 2024, the Hunts Point neighborhood in The Bronx experienced several notable incidents of crime. Bronx News reported that, on September 8, a 44-year-old man was shot twice in his leg while standing outside 670 Hunts Point Avenue.
This was part of a concerning trend, as the area had already recorded 12 shootings earlier in the year. Local residents mentioned that violence often escalates late at night, especially near clubs where arguments frequently occur.
In another case, a series of burglaries targeted local businesses on September 5 and 6. One of the incidents involved four suspects stealing $35,000 from a business in Hunts Point, while two other locations in The Bronx were also hit during this spree. Authorities are still searching for the suspects linked to these crimes.
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1. Mott Haven, The Bronx – Most Dangerous Neighborhood in NYC
Mott Haven sits at the very top of our list, and if you ever wondered, “Is The Bronx dangerous,” it should give you the answer. Mott Haven tops the list with the highest reported serious crime rate at 28.0 per 1,000 residents.
Socioeconomic challenges are severe, adding to the neighborhood’s tough reputation. Living here means facing some of the harshest conditions in the city, and this is one of the areas to avoid in New York unless you have some really pressing matter to attend to.
Overall Crime Rate
Statistics from AreaVibes are definitely worrying:
- The chance of being a victim of crime in Mott Haven is 1 in 15.
- The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Mott Haven is 1 in 39.
- The chance of being a victim of property crime in Mott Haven is 1 in 24.
40th Precinct (Includes Mott Haven)
Bronx Times reported the following stats:
- Burglaries: Increased from 24 to 42 (75% increase).
- Robberies: Increased by 40%.
- Felony Assaults: Increased by 5.4%.
- Grand Larcenies: Increased by 35.6%.
- Murders and Rapes: Halved.
- Grand Larceny Auto: Decreased by 34.6%.
Additional Information
- For a broader view, the serious crime rate in Mott Haven/Melrose was 30.7 serious crimes per 1,000 residents in 2023 as per NYU Furman Center. Although this rate dipped in 2024, it is still very high.
Man Critically Injured After Shooting in Mott Haven, The Bronx
According to Bronx News, a 30-year-old man was shot in the head in Mott Haven, The Bronx, on the evening of October 14, 2024. The shooting occurred in the lobby of an apartment building on East 138th Street.
Police responded to the scene at around 6 p.m., and the victim was rushed to Lincoln Hospital in critical condition. As of now, authorities have not provided further details about the shooter or any arrests.
FAQs
Concluding Thoughts
New York City, with all its glamour and grit, has neighborhoods that tell stories of resilience amidst hardship. These areas, though fraught with danger, are home to people who face daily struggles with unwavering determination.
Walking through these streets, one can’t help but feel the weight of the challenges and the strength of the communities striving for a better tomorrow. Each neighborhood has its unique set of problems and efforts toward improvement. We can only hope that these crime rates will dip, and that the streets of NYC will be safer in time.
