What Makes a Neighborhood Dangerous
Dangerous neighborhoods typically have high rates of violent crime, property crime, and poverty. Factors include unemployment, limited access to services, and concentrated disadvantage. Data from agencies like the FBI and local police departments help identify these areas.
Neighborhoods Often Cited as Most Dangerous
Areas such as parts of Detroit, Michigan; St. Louis, Missouri; and Memphis, Tennessee frequently appear in crime rankings. In these neighborhoods, violent crime rates can be many times higher than the national average. Small sections of cities often drive these statistics more than entire municipalities.
Understanding Crime Data and Context
Crime rates are measured per 1,000 residents and vary by reporting methods. Neighborhoods with high poverty and low investment often face cycles of crime that are difficult to break. For a deeper look at urban crime trends, see the Bureau of Justice Statistics.
