Staten Island is the southernmost of New York City’s five boroughs. It has many historic attractions, beach views, and some of the greatest dining options.
However, beneath this relaxing atmosphere people should consider also crime and socioeconomic challenges.
After being here a few times, I will you with some analysis of the most dangerous and worst neighborhoods in Staten Island to help you stay safe.
See the crime analysis overview and some insights below.
Let’s start with the crime overview.
What’s the Crime Rate in Staten Island, NY?
The crime in Staten Island, NY has become a significant issue, particularly due to recent data indicating a rise in specific crime categories.
Let’s see some crime rate statistics in Staten Island from a few trusted sources:
- According to NeighborhoodScout (see the Staten Island crime map above), the chance of being a crime victim in Staten Island is 1 in 63. The violent crime rate is 4.51 per 1,000 residents and the property crime rate is 11.17 per 1,000 residents.
- CrimeGrade.org says that the crime rate in Staten Island is 11.40 per 1,000 residents during a standard year. The southeast part is the safest (1 in 173 chance of being a victim), while the northwest part is riskier (1 in 63).
- Recent 2023 data shows a big rise in murders on Staten Island. There was a 129% rise from the previous year. There was also a big surge in major crimes across many categories.
In addition, here’s some analysis of the crime rate in Staten Island, according to NYC.gov:
- Murder: There were 19 reported murders in 2023, representing a 46.2% increase compared to 2001 and a 58.3% increase compared to 1998. However, there was a 24.0% decrease compared to 1993.
- Rape: In 2023, there were 41 reported rapes, showing a 7.9% increase compared to 1998, a 25.5% decrease compared to 1993, and a 48.1% decrease compared to 1990. There was also a 7.9% increase compared to 2001.
- Robbery: In 2023, there were 315 reported robberies. This reflects a 17.3% drop from 1998, a 41.1% drop from 1993, and a 77.5% drop from 1990. However, there was a 17.3% increase compared to 2001.
- Felony Assault: There were 972 reported felony assaults in 2023. This is a 52.6% increase from 2001, a 30.5% increase from 1998, and a 20.2% drop from 1993.
- Burglary: In 2023, 369 burglaries were reported. This is a 62.7% decrease from 1998, a 71.5% decrease from 1993, and an 89.1% decrease from 1990.
- Grand Larceny: There were 1,592 reported grand thefts in 2023. This is a big increase of 65.3% from 1998, 65.1% from 1993, and a slight drop of 4.7% from 2001.
- Grand Larceny Auto (G.L.A.): In 2023, there were 455 reported grand larceny auto cases. This is a 55.5% decrease from 1998, a 73.7% decrease from 1993, and a 90.7% decrease from 2001.
- Total Crime: The number of reported crimes in Staten Island in 2023 was 3,763. This is a 6.9% drop from the previous report in 2012.
If you want to see the details in a table, here you are:
| Crime Type | Number of Incidents in 2023 | Percentage Change Compared to 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Murder | 19 | 46.2% |
| Rape | 41 | 7.9% |
| Robbery | 315 | -17.3% |
| Felony Assault | 972 | 52.6% |
| Burglary | 369 | -62.7% |
| Grand Larceny | 1,592 | 65.3% |
| Grand Larceny Auto (G.L.A.) | 455 | -55.5% |
You may also like: Long Island vs Staten Island: Which One to Choose?
15 Most Dangerous & Worst Neighborhoods in Staten Island NY
1. Port Richmond
Port Richmond is the most dangerous and worst neighborhood in Staten Island.
Historically, this neighborhood was a real industrial hub, facing enormous challenges in adapting to a post-industrial era.
Overall, the chance of becoming a victim of any crime in Port Richmond is 1 in 24.
Property crimes, including burglaries and thefts, are common in Port Richmond. Drug-related incidents contribute significantly to the overall crime rate.
If you’re going to visit this neighborhood, be attentive, particularly in secluded areas.
And avoid wandering the streets after dark.
2. Stapleton
Once known for its maritime activity, Stapleton has been transforming a lot in recent years.
All in all, the construction of new residential developments has brought a mix of communities, but the neighborhood grapples with a lingering crime history.
Stapleton has seen crime rates drop with ongoing revitalization.
But, pockets of crime persist. Stapleton has a high crime rate, with a chance of becoming a victim of any crime at 1 in 43.
3. Clifton
Clifton, located on the eastern shore, is one of the worst neighborhoods in Staten Island. It experiences a mix of property crimes and occasional violent incidents.
It has seen improvement in recent years.
But people visiting Clifton should think twice. The chance of becoming a crime victim is 1 in 30.
4. Mariners Harbor
Mariners Harbor, located on the western shore, faces economic challenges that have contributed to a higher crime rate, thus becoming a bad area.
The reason lies in the unemployment and poverty in the area. The chance of becoming a victim of any crime in Mariners Harbor is 1 in 29.
Overall, the crime data for the Mariners Harbor neighborhood in Staten Island for the year 2023 reveals significant changes in various crime categories compared to previous years.
For example, there were 19 reported murders in 2023, reflecting a 46.2% increase compared to 2001 and a 58.3% increase compared to 1998.
Also, there were 41 reported rapes, showing a 7.9% increase compared to 1998 and a 25.5% decrease compared to 1993.
Last but not least, the neighborhood had a 52.6% increase in felony assaults in 2023 and a substantial decrease of 62.7% in burglaries compared to 1998.
5. New Brighton
Once a cultural and economic hub, New Brighton has faced economic decline and crime challenges.
Also, there have been many property crimes and occasional violent incidents reported in New Brighton.
All in all, the chance of becoming a victim of any crime in New Brighton is 1 in 27.
You may also like: 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Brooklyn, NY
6. Tompkinsville
Tompkinsville, situated on the North Shore, is among the most dangerous neighborhoods in Staten Island.
Despite today’s data, I must say this neighborhood is getting improved. Efforts to reduce crime and improve living conditions here are ongoing.
7. Rosebank
Rosebank is near the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. It faces a mix of poverty and progress.
While the neighborhood has seen positive changes, I wouldn’t advise you to visit this area, especially if you traveling alone.
In Rosebank, one has a chance of becoming a victim of any crime at 1 in 45.
8. Arlington
Arlington is transforming with ongoing redevelopment projects.
However, economic challenges persist, impacting the overall safety and crime rates in certain areas.
| Crime Type | Number of Incidents in 2023 |
|---|---|
| Murder | 0 |
| Rape | 3 |
| Robbery | 20 |
| Felony Assault | 52 |
| Burglary | 16 |
| Grand Larceny | 113 |
| Grand Larceny Auto | 20 |
| Total Crime | 224 |
When comparing the data of 2023 to 2022, there is a noticeable decrease in most crime categories, including murder, rape, robbery, felony assault, burglary, and grand larceny auto.
So there’s an overall improvement in the safety and security of the Arlington neighborhood.
9. Graniteville
Graniteville is located in the northwestern part of Staten Island and is one of the worst neighborhoods in Staten Island today.
Overall, there is a chance of becoming a victim of any crime at 1 in 44.
Some of the highest possibilities, I have to state!!
10. West Brighton
Compared with Graniteville, West Brighton is an even worse neighborhood, with a chance of becoming a victim of any crime at 1 in 50.
Among the statistics of crime rate here you can face property and occasional violent incidents.
You may also like: 15 Safest Neighborhoods in New York City
11. Elm Park
Elm Park is among the most dangerous neighborhoods in Staten Island, with a diverse population facing a mix of challenges and positive changes.
So if you’ve planned to visit this area, be aware that the crime rate is quite high here.
12. Midland Beach
Midland Beach is known for its coastal charms.
However, It’s one of the worst neighborhoods in Staten Island today.
Property crimes, including theft, are more common in Midland Beach.
While there were reported incidents across various crime categories, the data does not suggest that Midland Beach is significantly more dangerous than other neighborhoods in the area.
But it’s worth being attentive and careful!!
13. Charleston
A blend of rural and urban elements characterizes Charleston. Property crimes are more prevalent here, and visitors should exercise caution, especially in less-populated areas.
Also, there were reported incidents across various crime categories so be careful here!!
14. Richmond Valley
Richmond Valley, located in the southernmost part of Staten Island, faces a mix of economic challenges and positive developments, at the same time.
While the neighborhood has improved during the last few years, some areas still grapple with crime and safety concerns.
15. Huguenot
Huguenot, situated in the southwestern part of Staten Island, is known for its beautiful places of interest.
While there is much data on if this is one of the worst neighborhoods in Staten Island, you can visit Crimegrade.org to see what’s the crime situation here.
You may also like: 15 Best Neighborhoods in New York City
Conclusion
If you’re traveling to Staten Island, you should always do some preparation before your visit.
So in fact no matter if you’re a family seeking a haven or a couple exploring historical landmarks, do your homework to have a great traveling experience.
Good luck!!
