10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in New York: What 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. As of 2023, the city of New York recorded a crime rate of 2,418 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 concrete steps in reducing crime, specific areas still pose threats. We will now explore the 10 most dangerous neighborhoods in New York, the city that never sleeps.

Common Crimes in the Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in New York

New York’s most dangerous neighborhoods witness persistent criminal activity that 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.
2. Drug-related Offenses: These include possession, sale, and distribution of illegal drugs that are significant issues in many areas.
3. Assault: Assaults, such as physical attacks, including aggravated assault, are common in high crime in the most dangerous neighborhoods in NYC.
4. Burglary: Break-ins targeting homes and businesses contribute to the high property crime rates in several neighborhoods. 
5. Gun Violence: These are incidents that involve firearms, including shootings.

10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in New York

Beyond the glitz and glamor of New York lies a world where crimes are a significant thing, 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

Population: 1,443,229
Total Crime Rate: 4068/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1476/100,000 people

First on our list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York is the South Bronx. The area has high rates of violent crimes, particularly 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. The neighborhood reported 2,247 major crimes in the first three quarters of 2023. Though the authorities have made some revitalization efforts, the area remains a hotspot for high criminal activity with a rate of 85% higher than the city average.      

2. Brownsville

Population: 47,457
Total Crime Rate: 3723/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1615/100,000 people

With a recorded 112.3 violent crimes per 1000 residents, Brownsville is considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York. The area frequently witnesses shootings and homicides linked to territorial gang conflicts. Poverty is another thing gripping Brownsville, the most dangerous neighborhood in New York, contributing to higher incidences of robbery, assault, and drug trafficking. The neighborhood’s dense concentration of public housing developments, including Van Dyke Houses and Brownsville Houses, often becomes the center of violent acts.    

3. East Harlem

Population: 121,147
Total Crime Rate: 6071/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 2065/100,000 people

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 gun violence, with a long history of gang activity, drug-related crimes, and economic challenges. As of 2023, East Harlem has struggled with 89.7 crimes per 10,000 residents, making it a big no for students. Even though this most dangerous neighborhood in New York has begun to transform due to gentrification, it continues to witness high crimes like grand larceny and felony assault cases.

4. Fordham

Population: 48,002
Total Crime Rate: 4761/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1583/100,000 people

Next on our list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York is Fordham, which is threatened by both property and violent crimes, including muggings, assaults, and burglaries. The area has 95.4 crimes per 10,000 residents recorded in 2023. Much of the neighborhood's criminal activity is fueled by the high rate of drug-related offenses, with a 33% increase in juvenile-related crimes. This commercial corridor along Fordham Road has become a hotspot for theft and personal property crimes.

5. Mott Haven

Population: 47,136
Total Crime Rate: 6890/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 2606/100,000 people

Another one of the dangerous New York neighborhoods is Mott Haven, situated in the southern part of the Bronx. With a crime rate of 102.8 per 1,000 residents, Mott Haven struggles with crimes like shootings, robberies, and assaults. Additionally, a high poverty rate and issues related to drug use and trafficking make it one of the worst neighborhoods in New York City. While some development efforts are in progress, the area continues to see a 29% increase in assault cases and drug-related crimes.

6. Hunts Point

Population: 11,280
Total Crime Rate: 6047/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 2484/100,000 people

One of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York, Hunts Point is known for its industrial roots but also for its high crime rates. For long, the area has been struggling with drug-related crimes, such as heroin and opioid trafficking. These crimes have led to a range of violent crimes like shootings and robberies. Given the area’s industrial character and isolated location, it has 87.3 crimes per 10,000 residents. Hunts Point is also infamous for human trafficking and prostitution.

7. Canarsie

Population: 86,694
Total Crime Rate: 572/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 78.9/10,000 people

The 78.9 crimes per 10,000 residents in 2023 showcases Canarsie’s transformation from a middle-class enclave to a crime hotspot. It is the most dangerous neighborhood in NYC, with 1,567 major reported crimes, including home invasion and auto theft. Another increasing issue is gang activity, with a 31% rise in gang-related incidents. Drug trafficking is another major crime fueling the neighborhood’s crime rate. Although Canarsie is not as dangerous as some other areas on this list, Canarsie’s crime rate is still above average, especially in terms of violent offenses.

8. Jamaica

Population: 131,773
Total Crime Rate: 3187/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1117/100,000 people

Jamaica is also one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New York, with recorded 85.6 crimes per 10,000 residents. Robberies, drug-related offenses, and gun violence, with a strong presence of gang activity, are what plague this area in NYC. Jamaica’s transit spots, such as Jamaica Center, often witness petty thefts and assaults, further elevating the area’s crime statistics. Even the suburb’s commercial districts have become frequent targets for robbery and theft, with a 25% increase in commercial crimes. 

9. Bedford-Stuyvesant

Population: 234,457
Total Crime Rate: 3867/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1615/100,000 people

Bedford-Stuyvesant, also called Bed-Stuy, is also one of New York’s most dangerous neighborhoods despite having undergone significant gentrification in recent years. It has long been a victim of gang violence, with frequent shootings and assaults. Also prevalent in the area are property crimes, including burglary and car theft. Bedford-Stuyvesant, the most dangerous neighborhood in New York, has reported 1,934 major crimes, with a rise in property crimes by 34%.

10. Tremont

Population: 55,743
Total Crime Rate: 3867/100,000 people
Violent Crime Rate: 1615/100,000 people

Situated in the Bronx, Tremont is also one of New York worst neighborhoods with high rates of assault, robbery, and shootings. This is reflected in the area’s 76.8 crimes per 10,000 residents. Another major problem is drug trafficking, contributing to its high crime rates. Besides these issues, the area has also been witnessing domestic violence incidents with a troubling 28% increase. Despite efforts to improve safety in Tremont, the area continues to experience frequent violent incidents, making it the most dangerous neighborhood in NYC. 

How can Students Stay Safe in New York?

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.

1. Transportation Safety

• Ensure to use well-lit, busy subway stations.
• Use trusted ride-sharing apps or licensed yellow/green taxis.
• Use a verified airport transfer service from the airport to your student housing if it’s your first time in New York.
• Consider the NYPD’s (New York Police Department) Transit Watch app to report suspicious activity.

2. Housing Safety

• Always lock the door when stepping out.
• Get to know your neighbors and building security staff.
• Keep emergency numbers, including campus security, readily available.

3. Personal Safety

• Avoid using phones or wearing earphones while walking.
• Keep expensive items concealed when possible.
• Trust your instincts – if something feels off, leave the place.

4. Campus Safety

• Save your campus security number in your phone.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency blue light locations.
• Know your building’s emergency exits and protocols.

While these NYC most dangerous neighborhoods face significant challenges with crime and safety, it’s crucial to understand that several communities are working tirelessly to create positive change. These communities are seeing promising developments through community policing initiatives, youth programs, and economic development projects. However, for concrete changes, the authorities will need to go into the root cause of the problems like poverty, lack of educational opportunities, and unemployment.