12 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in New York You Should Know

New York City’s towering skyscrapers and lively streets tell countless stories, with thousands of students coming here to study and grab endless opportunities for their career growth. However, beneath the city’s allure lies a harsh reality–certain neighborhoods experience higher crime rates. In 2025, the city of New York recorded a crime rate of 2,320 incidents per 100,000 people, with violent crimes such as robbery, assault, and gun violence more prevalent in certain areas. While New York has taken regular steps to reduce crime, specific areas still pose threats. We will now explore some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York, the city that never sleeps!

Common Crimes in the Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC

The most dangerous neighborhoods in New York experience continuous criminal activity, which impacts community safety and quality of life. Despite efforts to enhance security, these most unsafe neighborhoods in NYC frequently see incidents of violence, theft, and drug-related offenses. We will now look at the common crimes happening in the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York.

1. Robbery: The forceful or armed theft of personal belongings is one of the common crimes taking place frequently in New York’s most dangerous neighborhoods. Offenders use force, intimidation, or weapons to steal personal belongings such as phones, wallets, or jewelry. Most of these incidents occur late at night and in isolated areas.
2. Drug-related Offenses: These include possession, sale, and distribution of illegal drugs, which are significant issues in many areas. Crimes include the possession, sale, and distribution of narcotics, as well as contributing to gang violence and other criminal activities.
3. Assault: Assaults, such as physical attacks, including aggravated assault, are common in the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York. Victims are often targeted with weapons in disputes, robberies, or gang conflicts.
4. Burglary: Break-ins targeting homes and businesses contribute to the high property crime rates in several neighborhoods. Burglars often attack when properties are not taken care of, stealing valuable possessions and causing property damage.
5. Gun Violence: These are incidents that involve firearms, illegal gun possession, and shootings. Gun violence leads to loss of life and long-term fear in communities.

12 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in New York 

Beyond the glitz and glamor of New York lies a world where crimes are a major issue, threatening the safety of its residents. These New York worst neighborhoods are plagued by issues, such as poverty, gang activity, and drug-related offenses. Let’s now look at the 10 most dangerous neighborhoods in New York.

1. South Bronx

The South Bronx is known for its culture and historic importance, but it is also one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York. The area has high rates of violent crimes, like assault and robbery. This most dangerous neighborhood in NYC has been struggling with gang violence, drug-related crimes, and poverty for a very long time now. Though the authorities have made some revival efforts, this is the area to avoid in New York as it remains a hotspot for high criminal activity. There are expanded community policing and youth mentorship programs going on to improve trust and reduce gang recruitment.

2. Brownsville

With a recorded 3200 violent crimes per 100000 residents, Brownsville is considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York. The area frequently witnesses shootings and murders related to territorial gang conflicts. Poverty is another gripping thing. The neighborhood’s Van Dyke Houses and Brownsville Houses often become the center of violent acts. Community initiatives and policing continue to address safety concerns. More street lighting and CCTV cameras are installed, while funding job-training hubs for the local youth.

3. East Harlem

Situated in Upper Manhattan, East Harlem is also one of the most unsafe neighborhoods in NYC. It is known for violent offenses like assault, robbery, and burglary, with a long history of gang activity, drug-related crimes, and economic challenges, making it a big no for students. Even though this is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York, it has begun to transform due to gentrification. The neighborhood has also strengthened tenant patrols in public housing. While some progress has been made, crime rates still exceed the Manhattan average.

4. Fordham

Next on our list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York is Fordham, which is threatened by both property and violent crimes, including robberies, assaults, and burglaries. This commercial corridor along Fordham Road has become a hotspot for theft and personal property crimes. Community groups and the NYPD have focused on reducing street crimes and improving local safety.

5. Mott Haven

Mott Haven, situated in the southern part of the Bronx, continues to witness high rates of violent crime as of 2025, especially assaults and robberies.  Additionally, a high poverty rate and issues related to drug use and trafficking make it one of the worst neighborhoods in NYC. The ongoing police reforms and policies aim to address neighborhood safety. The neighborhood has also implemented safe corridor routes for students and upgraded security in parks and playgrounds.

6. Hunts Point

One of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York, Hunts Point, is known for its industrial roots but also for its high crime rates. The crimes are violent, like shootings and robberies. Hunts Point is also infamous for human trafficking and prostitution. Recent policing efforts have helped somewhat lessen the incidents. Neighborhood cleanup and environmental design projects are launched to make streets less vulnerable to crime.

7. Canarsie

Though Canarsie is not as dangerous as some other areas on this list, the crime rate is still above average, especially in terms of violent offenses. It is one of the most unsafe neighborhoods in NYC, with major crimes, such as home invasion and auto theft. Drug trafficking is another major crime fueling the neighborhood’s crime rate. Neighborhood watch programs and increased police patrols try to improve conditions. 

8. Jamaica

Jamaica is also one of the roughest part of New York, with crimes like robberies, drug-related offenses, and gun violence, with a strong presence of gang activity. Jamaica’s transit spots, such as Jamaica Center, witness more crimes, making it popular as one of the dangerous neighborhoods in NYC. Even the suburb’s commercial districts have become frequent targets for robbery and theft. Local organizations work with law enforcement on prevention and support. 

9. Bedford-Stuyvesant

Bedford-Stuyvesant, also called Bed-Stuy, is one of New York’s most dangerous neighborhoods despite having undergone a significant upgrade in recent years. It has long been a victim of gang violence, with frequent murders and assaults. A lively, historic Brooklyn neighborhood with ongoing improvement, Bed-Stuy still faces above-average rates of robbery and assault crimes, though it has slowed down in recent years. 

10. Tremont

Situated in the Bronx, Tremont is also one of the worst part of New York with high rates of assault, robbery, and shootings. Besides these issues, the area has also been witnessing an increasing domestic violence incidents. Despite efforts like improving the street lights for safety in Tremont, the area continues to experience frequent violent incidents, making it the most dangerous neighborhood in NYC.

11. East New York

Population- 1,35,000
Total crime rate- 10,000 per 100,000 residents
Violent crime rate- 3,300 per 100,000
Crimes-  robbery, assault, murder, theft

East New York, Brooklyn, is identified as one of New York City’s most dangerous neighborhoods in 2025. The socio-economic challenges and ongoing gang activity contribute to much of the area’s crimes. The neighborhood sees an increase in robbery, assault, and theft, but active community programs seek to improve safety. The neighborhood has rolled out a community safety plan with the NYPD, focusing on gun-buyback events and conflict-resolution training.

12. Rockaway

Population - 20,000
Total crime rate - 7,800 per 100,000 residents
Violent crime rate- 2,300 per 100,000
Crimes- robbery, assault, burglary

This coastal area faces notable property crimes and occasional violent incidents, but has fewer crime challenges than Brooklyn and Bronx hotspots. Rockaway, Queens, is a beachfront area with seasonal crime fluctuations. Property crime and theft tend to increase in the off-season, and violent incidents occur year-round, making safety a regular concern for locals and visitors. Rockaway has expanded beach area surveillance and NYPD bike patrols, and partnered with non-profit organizations on mental health programs for youth. 

Notable Neighborhoods 

While the above neighborhoods pose as dangerous areas, some notable neighborhoods require safety precautions. 

Hunts Point, Bronx, is known for crimes like robbery, assaults, poverty, and drug problems.
Midtown Manhattan has major crime incidents like theft and burglary. The area has a heavy police force to ensure safety.
Highbridge, Bronx, faces crime more than the city average in robbery and assaults.
Bushwick, Brooklyn, faces crimes like robbery, assaults, and theft. 

Living and studying in New York City can be an exciting adventure; however, students need to stay safe in New York. From navigating late-night subway rides to securing their living spaces, below are a few tips that will help you remain safe in this bustling metropolis.

On campus, save security contacts, learn the locations of emergency blue lights, and be aware of exits and protocols. By staying alert about New York worst neighborhoods, students and residents can enjoy everything NYC offers while minimizing risks.

Below are some safety resources for crime victims

1. VictimConnect: Offers support to victims, with services like mental health counseling and legal aid.
2. New York State Office of Victim Services (OVS): Provides information on victim services, resources, and legal rights.
3. FBI Victim Services Division: Offers support, help, and notification services to crime victims.

NYC’s most dangerous neighborhoods face challenges, but many communities are working hard to improve safety. For safer alternatives, areas like Battery Park City, Tribeca, Upper East/West Side, Park Slope, and Forest Hills offer cleaner streets, family-friendly vibes, and lower crime rates. Platforms like Reddit and Quora provide firsthand experiences, highlighting safe spots, dangerous streets, and hidden insights about New York neighborhoods.