11 Most Dangerous Areas in Los Angeles To Avoid in 2025

Los Angeles, the city of dreams and entertainment, attracts students and newcomers with its vibrant culture and endless opportunities. However, behind the allure of Hollywood and sunny beaches lies a challenging reality—some neighborhoods face significantly higher crime rates. As of 2024, parts of Los Angeles report crime rates soaring above national averages, with South LA seeing 397% more incidents and Hollywood recording nearly 5,000 crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Violent crimes like assault, robbery, and gun violence are particularly prevalent in certain areas. While LA continues to take steps to improve safety, it’s essential to understand the most dangerous neighborhoods in Los Angeles to stay informed and secure.

11 Most Dangerous Areas in Los Angeles

Behind Los Angeles' dazzling façade of glitz and glamour lies a harsher reality, where crime poses a serious challenge to the safety of its residents. Many of the most dangerous areas of Los Angeles grapple with issues like poverty, gang violence, and drug-related crimes. For students and newcomers, understanding these dangerous areas isn’t about fear—it’s about staying informed and prepared. From Skid Row to Compton, certain neighborhoods can become high-risk zones, especially after dark. Violent crimes often spike between 9 PM and 3 AM, so stick to well-lit, busy streets, and avoid isolated areas. One should always prioritize safety while navigating LA’s most challenging spots. Let’s take a closer look at the most dangerous neighborhoods in Los Angeles.

1. Skid Row

Population: Approximately 10,850 residents
Crime Rate: 4,725 per 100,000 residents
Crimes: High incidence of drug-related offenses and property crimes
Time of High Risk: Late evening to early morning (9 PM - 3 AM)

Skid Row is one of Los Angeles most dangerous neighborhoods, infamous for its concentrated homeless population and crime rate, exceeding the national average by about 68.4%. With over 4,000 residents, the area accounts for a significant portion of downtown Los Angeles's violent crimes. According to LAPD (Los Angeles Police Department) data, Skid Row experiences frequent incidents of drug-related offenses, assaults, and robberies, with peak activity occurring between late evening and early morning. The citywide average crime rate of 2,805 per 100,000 residents is vastly exceeded here, making it a hotspot for safety concerns. Students and visitors are advised to avoid walking alone, especially at night, and stay alert to minimize risk in this dangerous area of Los Angeles.

2. Downtown Los Angeles

Population: Approximately 9,453 residents
Crime Rate: 255.8 per 1,000 residents
Crimes: Elevated levels of property and violent crimes
Risk Period: Nighttime (10 PM - 2 AM

Downtown Los Angeles is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in LA, with crime rates significantly exceeding city averages. The area experiences higher incidences of violent crimes, such as assaults, robberies, and property crimes, with most activity occurring during nighttime hours, particularly between 10 PM and 2 AM. LAPD data indicates that Downtown LA has a 255.8 per 1,000 residents crime rate, which is 743% higher compared to the city’s average of 30.3 per 1,000 residents. Common offenses in this one of the LA worst neighborhoods include theft, vandalism, and drug-related incidents. For students, walking alone at night in this dangerous part of LA is strongly discouraged due to safety concerns.

3. Hollywood

Population: Approximately 90,322 residents
Crime Rate: 5000 per 100,000 residents
Crimes: High incidence of property theft and pickpocketing
Risk Period: Late night (9 PM - 3 AM)

Hollywood, a renowned neighborhood in Los Angeles, is identified as one of the city's more hazardous areas. Los Angeles, as a whole, has a crime rate of 36.79 per 1,000 residents, with violent crimes at 8.19 per 1,000 residents, but the crime rate of Hollywood is 109% above the national average. In Hollywood, crimes such as theft, burglary, and assault are prevalent. Data indicates that the southeast part of Hollywood experiences higher crime rates, with residents facing a 1 in 8 chance of becoming a victim, compared to a 1 in 18 chance in the southwest area. Criminal activities often occur during late-night hours, making it advisable for students and residents to exercise caution when traveling through this most dangerous part of LA at night. 

4. Koreatown

Population: Approximately 72,523 residents
Crime Rate: 2,978 per 100,000 residents
Crimes: Gang activity, drug-related offenses, and prostitution
Risk Period: Late-night (6 PM-midnight)

Koreatown is one of the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles, with crime rates 32% above the national average. This densely populated neighborhood, home to over 72,500 residents, sees frequent gang activity, drug offenses, and prostitution. According to LAPD data, violent crimes, including assaults and robberies, occur more frequently during late-night hours, especially around bars and nightlife venues. Property crimes such as theft and car break-ins are common, with peak incidents reported between 6 PM and midnight. Koreatown's central location and dense housing contribute to its ranking among Los Angeles most dangerous neighborhoods. Students should exercise caution, particularly at night, and avoid poorly lit streets or isolated areas.

5. West Adams

Population: Approximately 11,961 residents
Crime Rate: 6,811 per 100,000 residents
Crimes: Predominantly violent crimes linked to gang and drug activities
Risk Period: Evenings and late night (7 PM - 3 AM)

West Adams, a historic neighborhood in South Los Angeles, is often highlighted among LA neighborhoods to avoid due to its elevated crime rates, which are 143% higher than the national average. Residents face a 1 in 15 chance of becoming victims of crimes such as gun violence, robbery, assault, and theft. This places West Adams among the most dangerous neighborhoods in LA. While crime can occur at any time, evenings and late nights are particularly concerning. For students, it's advisable to exercise caution during these hours, avoid poorly lit areas, and stay informed about local safety advisories. Despite citywide efforts to reduce crime, public perception of safety remains a concern, underscoring the importance of community awareness and proactive safety measures.

6. Compton

Population: Approximately 89,695 residents
Crime Rate: 50.08 per 1,000 residents
Crimes: Notable for gun violence, drug activities, and poverty-related offenses
Risk Period: Late night (9 PM - 3 AM)

Compton, often listed among dangerous neighborhoods in LA, faces significant safety challenges. Despite efforts to improve its reputation, Compton’s crime rate remains a concern as it is 64.1% higher than the national average. Violent crimes like assaults, shootings, and robberies occur frequently here. The city has been associated with gang-related activities and drug trafficking, which contribute to its standing as one of Los Angeles bad neighborhoods. Compton sees higher incidents of crime during late-night hours, with data indicating that 63% of violent crimes occur between 9 PM and 3 AM. For students, the lack of secure public spaces and a safety index well below the city average make it less ideal to roam in this most dangerous part of LA.

7. Lincoln Heights

Population: Approximately 40,000 residents
Crime Rate:  11,110 per 100,000 residents
Crimes: Elevated levels of violent crime
Risk Period: Late evening to midnight (8 PM - 12 AM)

Lincoln Heights is considered one of Los Angeles most dangerous neighborhoods, with violent crime rates 246% higher than the city average. Assaults, robberies, and gang-related violence are common in the area, with incidents often occurring during late evenings between 8 PM and midnight. Property crimes, including theft and carjackings, also contribute to its reputation as one of Los Angeles most dangerous neighborhoods. Students and residents report safety concerns near abandoned properties and poorly lit streets, which can become hotspots for criminal activity. 

8. South Los Angeles

Population: Approximately 249,670 residents
Crime Rate: 4,268 per 100,000 residents
Crimes: High levels of drug trafficking and gun violence, often gang-related

Risk Period: Day and night (6 AM - midnight)

South Los Angeles is often cited among the most dangerous neighborhoods in LA. While specific crime rates have been previously mentioned, it's important to note that violent crimes in this area are 397% higher than the national average. Crimes such as shootings, assaults, and robberies are prevalent, with incidents occurring throughout the day and night. However, certain areas, particularly the northeast parts of South Los Angeles, experience higher crime rates, with approximately 4,637 incidents per year, compared to the southwest, which reports around 1,169 incidents annually. For students and residents, it's advisable to exercise caution, especially after dark, and stay informed about local safety advisories.

9. Fashion District

Population: Approximately 2,466 residents
Crime Rate: 4,772 per 100,000 residents
Crimes: Elevated property crimes
Risk Period: Late evening (7 PM-midnight)

The Fashion District is one of the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles, with a crime rate 105% higher than the national average. It has a bad reputation for high property crime rates and limited safety measures. As part of Downtown LA, it experiences a significant share of crimes, especially theft and assault, with incidents often peaking during late evening hours when foot traffic decreases. The city’s average crime rate is 3,115 per 100,000 residents, yet the Fashion District exceeds this significantly with 4,772 per 100,000 residents. Drug-related offenses and occasional gang activity further contribute to its notoriety. Ranked among Los Angeles most dangerous neighborhoods, students must exercise caution, especially at night, and avoid isolated areas.

10. Watts

Population: Approximately 41,000 residents
Crime Rate: 3,514 per 100,000 residents
Crimes: Significant violent crime rates, though reduced since the 1990s
Risk Period: 7 PM-midnight

Watts is often highlighted as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in LA, with crime rates significantly above 50% higher than the national average. Los Angeles averages 3,115 crimes per 100,000 residents annually, but Watts sees 3,514 crimes per 100,000 residents, with violent crimes like assault, robbery, and gun violence leading the statistics. Gang-related activity remains a pressing issue, especially after dark, with many incidents occurring between 7 PM and midnight. Despite community efforts to reduce crime, Watts continues to struggle with poverty and lack of resources, making it a challenging area for students or anyone seeking a secure environment in Los Angeles.

11. Leimert Park

Population: Approximately 12,000 residents
Crime Rate: 67.47 per 1,000 resident
Crimes: Elevated levels of violent crime
Risk Period: Late-night hours (9 PM - 3 AM)

Leimert Park, with a population of roughly 12,000, is often cited among Los Angeles most dangerous neighborhoods. Violent crime rates in Leimert Park are reported to be 184% higher than the Los Angeles average, with frequent incidents of assault, robbery, and gun violence. Property crimes, including burglary and car theft, also remain prevalent. According to LAPD data, crimes in this area often occur during late-night hours, from 9 PM to 3 AM, making it especially unsafe for students commuting or working late. As one of the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles, Leimert Park requires caution and awareness, particularly in poorly lit or isolated areas.

Are There Safer Neighborhoods in LA?

While Los Angeles is known for having the most dangerous areas of Los Angeles, several safest neighborhoods in LA offer secure and peaceful environments, making them ideal for students and newcomers. These best neighborhoods in LA are well-lit, have low crime rates, and provide a balanced lifestyle. 

1. Sherman Oaks
2. Glendale
3. Bel Air
4. Culver City
5. Brentwood

Los Angeles may be the city of dreams, but not every corner glitters. Some areas, like South LA, Hollywood, and Skid Row, are known as the most dangerous part of LA, with sky-high crime rates and serious safety concerns. These neighborhoods face challenges like gang violence, drug activity, and robberies, making them a tough reality for newcomers and students alike. Staying safe in a city with such contrasts is about smart decisions—avoiding sketchy spots at night, sticking to well-lit streets, and being aware of your surroundings. For students looking for secure and comfortable housing away from the most dangerous cities in Los Angeles, amber provides safe, verified options for student housing in LA, so you can focus on thriving in LA without worrying about safety.

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