15 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC

New York is one of the biggest but simultaneously one of the most dangerous cities in the United States.

I’ve been in all of them. I’d like to share helpful experience so you know what to expect from each.

I’ve compiled a list of the 15 most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC. I will provide the following info about them:

• Neighborhood map;
• Crime overview;
• What the current neighborhood is known for (in a bad way).

But first and foremost, let’s have a look at the NYC crime rate.

What’s the Crime Rate in NYC (in 2024)?

According to the updated 2024 data by the New York City Police Department, here’s the full picture of the crime rate in the City of New York:

Overall Crime Trends: Citywide crime stats for January 2024 show a big decrease. It is in many major crime types, compared to January 2023.

However, it’s worth mentioning that murder fell by 25% (27 vs. 36).

Plus, the rape rate in the city fell by 24.4% (102 vs. 135), burglary by 19.8% (1,065 vs. 1,328), and car theft by 3.8% (1,178 vs. 1,224).

Also, felony assault fell by 1.5% (2,068 vs. 2,100).

Reductions in Specific Crimes: The number of vehicles stolen in New York City was reduced by at least 3.8% for the second consecutive month

Arrests and Incidents: Arrests for all major index crimes citywide increased by 5.7% in January compared to the same period a year ago.

Public Housing Developments and Bias Incidents: Overall, major crimes in public housing dropped by 11 in January 2024. This was compared to the previous January.

The NYPD’s Hate Crime Task Force investigated more bias incidents in January. The total across the five boroughs increased by 12.

Now, let’s have a look at the NYC crime map below (2024 updated):

Stay updated and check the crime map of New York City here and keep reading to know the most unsafe areas in New York City.

You may also like: 15 Safest Neighborhoods in New York City

15 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC

1. Brownsville, Brooklyn

Brownsville is the most dangerous neighborhood in NYC. It has the highest rates of drug-related mortality, murder, and homicide in the city.

See Brownsville’s crime map below (the darker the red is, the more dangerous the part):

All in all, sources indicate that Brownsville is the worst neighborhood in NYC.

Let’s explore one of the most reliable sources.

For example, let’s see some data from AreaVibes:

Statistic	Brownsville	New York City	National
Total Crime Rate (per 100k)	3,723 (estimate)	2,885	2,324
Violent Crime Rate (per 100k)	1,615 (estimate)	744	370
Property Crime Rate (per 100k)	2,108 (estimate)	2,141	1,954

As the table above shows, Brownsville has a much higher total crime rate compared to New York City and the nation. It has about 3,723 crimes per 100,000 residents.

In comparison, the citywide rate is 2,885 and the national rate is 2,324.

This is due to a much higher violent crime rate in Brownsville. It is estimated at 1,615 per 100,000 residents. This is compared to 744 citywide and 370 nationally.

The property crime rate in Brownsville is also higher than the New York City average. It has an estimated 2,108 property crimes per 100,000 residents compared to 2,141 citywide.

On average, Brownsville has much higher crime rates for both violent and property crimes. The rates are higher than in the rest of New York City and the country so Brownsville is one of the worst neighborhoods in the city.

You can also see some crime stats for Brownsville yourself from the NY Police Department here.

2. Hunts Point, The Bronx

Hunts Point is also one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC.

Being located in the Bronx and is known for its high rates of prostitution and drug-related crimes.

In this neighborhood, the crime rate is 1 in 22 chance of being a victim. Sexual assault cases are also on the rise in Hunts Point, making it an unsafe place to visit.

3. East Harlem, Manhattan

East Harlem is one of the most unsafe areas in Manhattan.

Overall, the neighborhood has a high crime rate, with a 1 in 27 chance of being a victim. 

This neighborhood is on this list as is known for gang activity, drug dealing, and violent crime.

4. Bedford-Stuyvesant (Bed-Stuy), Brooklyn

Bedford-Stuyvesant (or as they call it, “Bed-Stuy”, is another risky neighborhood in Brooklyn.

It has a high crime rate, with a 1 in 38 chance of being a victim. 

Bed-Stuy has a poor reputation and poverty and unemployment continue to increase here.

5. Jamaica, Queens

Jamaica is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC.

If you decide to have a walk in this neighborhood, keep in mind that you’ll have a one in 49 chance of being a victim. 

6. The South Shore, Staten Island

The South Shore (in Staten Island) is one of the worst areas to avoid in New York City.

Here, one has a 1 in 62 chance of being a victim.

You may also like: 15 Worst Neighborhoods in Staten Island NY

7. Brown Heights, Brooklyn

Brown Heights is another risky neighborhood in Brooklyn.

With a high crime rate, there is a 1 in 67 chance of being a victim.

Recommended Article: Exploring All Neighborhoods in Queens, NYC

8. East New York, Brooklyn

East New York is one of the unsafe neighborhoods in Brooklyn. It has a 1 in 70 chance of being a victim.

Next comes poverty and unemployment, which contribute to its high crime rates.

9. Tremont, The Bronx

Tremont is also one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC.

So it has a high crime rate, with a 1 in 72 chance of being a victim.

10. East Flatbush, Brooklyn

East Flatbush is one of the worst neighborhoods in NYC (Brooklyn) – a 1 in 75 chance of being a victim.

But, only 29% of adults in East Flatbush have a college degree.

And, one in six adults has not finished high school. This can limit opportunities and impact socioeconomic conditions.

11. Mott Haven, The Bronx

Mott Haven is the next unsafe neighborhood in the Bronx. It has a high crime rate, with a 1 in 77 chance of being a victim.

12. Ozone Park, Queens

Ozone Park is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC (Queens). It has a high crime rate, with a 1 in 81 chance of being a victim.

13. Canarsie, Brooklyn

Canarsie is another dangerous area in Brooklyn. It has a high crime rate, with a 1 in 85 chance of being a victim.

14. The Rockaways, Queens

The Rockaways is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC, located in Queens. There is a 1 in 87 chance of being murdered.

15. Fordham, The Bronx

Fordham is another area to avoid in the Bronx. It has a high crime rate.

Known for its criminal authority, Fordham gives you a 1 in 89 chance of being murdered.

All in all, Fordham is known for its criminal background and cruel scenes.

Recommended Article: All 12 Irish Neighborhoods in NYC Explored

15 Tips to Stay Safe in the Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC

1. Avoid Walking Alone at Night: If possible, avoid Walking Alone at Night. When you can, avoid walking alone in the worst neighborhoods. This is especially true after dark.
2. Just Look Around: Keep your head up, avoid distractions like staring at your phone, and pay attention to the people and activities around you.
3. Stick to Well-Lit Areas: Stick to well-lit streets and pathways when walking at night.
4. Use Reliable Transportation Options: If you need to travel in or through the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC, use reputable taxis or rideshare apps. This is better than public transportation, if possible.
5. Keep Valuables Hidden: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, electronic devices, or large amounts of cash. Keep valuables hidden to reduce the risk of being targeted by thieves.
6. Carry Only Essentials: When going out, carry only what you need. Leave unnecessary items at home to minimize the potential loss in case of theft.
7. Let Someone Know Your Plans: Inform someone of your plans. If you’re going into the most dangerous NYC neighborhoods, tell a friend or family member where you’re going and when you expect to return. Just in any case!!
8. Trust Your Instincts: If feel that something can be dangerous, just don’t do it!! Trust your instincts and feel safe. It’s always better to be cautious not to regret it later.
9. Avoid Confrontation: In tense situations, avoid confrontation whenever possible. Walking away from an argument or conflict can prevent escalation.
10. Use ATMs During the Day: If you need to use an ATM, do so during daylight hours and in well-populated areas. Avoid isolated ATMs in dimly lit corners.
11. Stay Updated: Stay updated on the local news and community events. Awareness of recent incidents in the area can help you make informed decisions about your safety.
12. Carry Identification: Always carry a form of identification with you, such as a driver’s license or ID card. This can be quite essential in case of an emergency.
13. Use Safe Spaces: Use public spaces like libraries, community centers, or stores. You can seek help or shelter there if needed.
14. Build Connections: Try to make positive connections in the community. Neighbors who know and trust each other can all enhance safety. 😉
15. Report Suspicious Activity: If you see something suspicious or feel unsafe, call the local authorities and report it. Your vigilance can contribute to the safety of the neighborhood.

Conclusion

We’ve explored the 15 most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC. But surely crime stats can change.

Meanwhile, I’ve mentioned some tips to stay safe in NYC. Some neighborhoods may have more crime. But, they also have unique specifications and a strong community.

Stay safe!!