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Most Dangerous Areas In Los Angeles To Know
Los Angeles is renowned for its celebrity residents, pleasant weather, beautiful beaches, and scenic mountains. However, beyond the glitz and glamour, there are several neighbourhoods best avoided because of significant issues with violent crime, property crime, drugs, and homelessness. The area is home to one of the largest homeless encampments in the nation, with a safety rating of “F” according to Crimegrade.org. Statistics indicate that, on average, a crime occurs every 2 hours and 5 minutes in this area. Homes without security systems face a 300% higher risk of robbery. Additionally, drug and gang activities are prevalent issues. Read further to explore the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles and some tips to be safe in the city.
Most Dangerous Areas In Los Angeles
Last year, violent crime in Los Angeles decreased by 3% compared to the previous year. Despite this modest decline, city officials noted ongoing public perception of the second-largest city in the United States as unsafe. Homicides have notably dropped by 17% year-on-year. However, while some types of violent crime are on the decline, others are experiencing an increase in Los Angeles. Given below is a list of the top no-go areas in Los Angeles:
1. Downtown LA
Source: Hollywood Sign
Downtown LA, often abbreviated as DTLA and a major economic hub of Los Angeles, unfortunately, ranks as the city’s most dangerous neighbourhood. Despite its economic significance, it faces significant crime and illicit activities. FBI statistics show a violent crime rate 12 times higher than the national average, with overall crime levels soaring 530% above national norms. In 2023, LAPD reported 1,654 violent offences, with a record 490 murders in 2018.
- Nighttime walking, whether alone or in groups, is strongly discouraged.
- Homelessness remains a widespread issue, contributing to safety concerns.
- Incidents such as pick-pocketing and robberies are common.
- Crime rates drop during daylight hours, but caution is still advised.
- Particularly problematic areas lie south of 3rd Street, north of 7th Street, west of Alameda Street, and east of Main Street.
2. Lincoln Heights
Source: Wikimedia Website
Lincoln Heights, one of Los Angeles’ oldest neighbourhoods just north of downtown, is rich in history and culture, highlighted by Lincoln Park’s landmarks such as the Abraham Lincoln Statue and Agustin Lara Monument. Despite its charm and approximately 40,000 residents, Lincoln Heights faces significant crime challenges.
- The violent crime rate is 246% higher than the LA average.
- The property crime rate exceeds the national average by 321%.
- High likelihood of becoming a victim of crime, with a one in ten chance.
3. West Adams
Source: Los Angeles Times
Much of the crime in West Adams stems from gang and drug activities, contributing to a high incidence of violent crime. While there is a visible police presence, residents often express frustration over the capacity to respond to numerous criminal incidents simultaneously. Aside from incidents of gun violence, common crimes in West Adams include robbery, assault, and theft. Nighttime walking is strongly discouraged because of safety concerns. Many residents also feel unsafe when using public transportation in the area.
- Population of 11,961 residents.
- The crime rate stands at 6,811 per 100,000 people.
- Residents face a 1 in 15 chance of becoming crime victims.
4. South Los Angeles
Source: CicAvia Website
Despite a heightened police presence since the 1990s, which has contributed to a gradual reduction in crime, the level of gang activity varies by neighbourhood. Residents are strongly advised to take precautions when walking at night, although daytime pedestrian activities and public transit use are considered safer.
- Crime rate of 4,268 per 100,000 people.
- High incidence of drug trafficking and gun violence.
- Gang activity influences safety levels across different neighbourhoods.
- Increased police presence has led to a decline in crime since the 1990s.
- Caution is recommended for nighttime pedestrian activities; daytime and public transit use is safer.
5. Compton
Source: Homes Website
While Compton once led the nation in murder rates in 2005, there has been a decline over the past two decades. However, since 2020, there has been a troubling rise in both violent crime and property crime in the area. Despite a significant police presence, residents often express concerns about the police’s ability to respond effectively to incidents.
- The crime rate is 3,533 per 100,000 people, 51% above the national average.
- Experienced the highest murder rate in the country in 2005.
- Increase in violent crime and property crime since 2020.
- Residents feel police lack the capacity to respond effectively.
6. Watts
Source: Homes Website
Watts, located in Los Angeles, stands out as one of the city’s most challenging neighbourhoods because of its high crime rates and historical struggles with violence and poverty.
- The crime rate in Watts is 50% higher than the national average.
- The overall crime rate is 3,514 per 100,000 people.
- The chance of becoming a crime victim is 1 in 29.
- The decline in violent crime rate since the 1990s.
- Recorded 1,574 incidents of violent crime and 1,943 incidents of property crime in 2023.
- Caution advised against walking alone at night, using public transit, or carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
7. Koreatown
Source: CNN Website
Koreatown, with a population of 72,523, has a crime rate of 2,978 per 100,000 people, making it 32% more dangerous than the national average. The neighbourhood faces significant issues related to gang and drug activity, which contribute to various associated crimes, including prostitution.
- Crime rate in Koreatown is 32% higher than the national average with 2,978 crimes per 100,000 people.
- Gang and drug activity are the predominant issues in the area, often linked to other crimes.
- Southern and Eastern parts of Koreatown are considered the most dangerous.
8. Hollywood
Source: Los Angeles Times Website
Surprisingly, Hollywood is also one of the worst neighbourhoods in Los Angeles for crime. Known worldwide as the home of many of the biggest movie production companies, Hollywood also faces significant crime issues. Walking during the day shouldn’t be an issue as long as belongings are secure, but walking at night isn’t advised.
- 109% higher than the national average with 4,894 crimes per 100,000 people.
- Despite its fame, Hollywood has significant crime problems like property theft and pickpocketing
9. Fashion District
Source- Tac Dn Webiste
This is also one of the most famous no-go areas in Los Angeles. Though famous like the other areas, the fashion district is not that glam at night. Let’s look at the key points related to crime in this area:
- It has a high crime rate of 28% higher than the national average, with 2,870 crimes per 100,000 people.
- Significant risk of 1 in 35 chance of becoming a victim.
- Walking or using public transit is safe during the daytime if precautions are taken.
10. Leimert Park
Source: LaParks Website
Leimert Park is another one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Los Angeles. Located in South Los Angeles, Leimert Park is a residential area known for its Spanish Colonial Revival homes and tree-lined blocks. Despite its rich history and notable residents like Ella Fitzgerald and Ray Charles, the neighbourhood faces significantly higher crime rates compared to the rest of the city and country.
Safest Neighbourhoods In Los Angeles
Apart from the high crime rate areas in Los Angeles, there are many safe areas for students, travellers, and immigrants to reside in. Let’s look at the brighter side with the following list:
- University of California Los Angeles
- Bell Canyon
- Mulholland Park
- Deer Lake Highlands
- Castellammare
- Royal Oak
- Pacific Palisades Northwest
Mayor Implements Comprehensive Strategies For Dangerous Areas In Los Angeles
The mayor of Los Angeles has unveiled an ambitious plan to tackle crime rates across the city, introducing several key initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and community well-being:
- Enhanced Emergency Response: Increasing the capacity to respond to emergency medical calls to 911.
- Retail Theft Prevention: Continued funding for the LAPD’s Retail Theft Task Force to combat retail crimes.
- Community Safety Office: Establish the Mayor’s Office of Community Safety, focusing on community-led approaches to improving public safety.
- Investment in Youth Development: A new $13 million investment in the Gang Reduction and Youth Development program to provide essential intervention services.
- Support for Summer Night Lights: Increased base salary for employees involved in the Summer Night Lights program, which offers safe recreational activities.
- Food Security Initiative: Creation of a new program to provide meals to 397,400 residents in public housing developments across the city.
- Drug Overdose Prevention: New efforts to combat drug overdoses through the training of city employees to administer NARCAN.
Los Angeles is a vast city composed of numerous neighbourhoods. Although some of these areas have higher crime rates, they still attract many tourists. Neighbourhoods such as Hollywood and Koreatown provide more affordable rent than other parts of the city. However, despite the lower cost of living, these areas might not be ideal for those prioritising safety, as they continue to struggle with property crime and homelessness issues.
FAQs
1. How much violent crime is there in LA?
The violent crime in LA amounts to 801.5 and is given a safety rating of “F” according to Crimegrade.org.
2. Is Los Angeles a good place to live?
Most residents of Los Angeles would enthusiastically agree—it’s certainly worth it! With its year-round warm and sunny climate, vibrant job market, abundant entertainment options, rich cultural scene, stunning beaches, and more, Los Angeles offers a lifestyle that’s hard to beat. Just be mindful of a few areas to avoid at night.
3. What area of LA has the highest crime rate?
Wholesale District is the area with the highest crime rate in Los Angeles with a crime rate of 109% than the national average.
4. Does LA have a higher crime rate than Chicago?
Chicago is infamous for its high homicide rate, whereas Los Angeles grapples more with prevalent common crimes than violent offences. Both cities face challenges related to crime rates and safety, with suburbs experiencing lower crime rates.
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