A Student’s Guide to the Most Dangerous Areas in Los Angeles

You’ve done the hard part of getting into a university in Los Angeles. Now the fun bit is planning your move. The city is everything you’ve imagined: celebrity hotspots, sunny skies, beautiful beaches, and those Pinteresty mountain views. There’s a reason people across the world dream of calling LA home.

But like any big city, it has its rough corners too. Before you pick a place to live or scroll through rental listings, it’s worth knowing which neighbourhoods to be cautious about. This guide walks you through the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles, so you can avoid them, make smarter choices, and focus on your student life ahead.

Crime Rate Overview Across Los Angeles Areas

Top 11 Most Dangerous Areas In Los Angeles In 2025

1. Skid Row

Skid Row stands out as one of the most dangerous parts of LA. It’s famous, or rather infamous, for its large homeless community and persistent challenges with crime. Located in downtown Los Angeles, it’s a place you’ll want to keep well clear of, especially when you’re new to the city and still settling in.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

The crime rate here hits around 4,725 per 100,000 residents, almost double the city’s average. Drug-related offences top the list, alongside theft and assaults. The risk doesn’t disappear with daylight either; it’s most active from 9 PM through 3 AM, but trouble can pop up any time. The environment can feel tense, with some areas seeing frequent police presence while others don’t. Petty crime and aggressive panhandling are common, which might feel intimidating if you’re unfamiliar.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If you’re a student, your safest bet is to avoid Skid Row altogether. It’s not close to major university campuses or student housing hubs, so safer neighbourhoods are well within reach. When you do need to be nearby while commuting or exploring, stick to well-lit streets and main roads. 

Walking alone at night is a no-go. Always have your phone handy and share your location with a trusted friend. Plan your journey in advance, and if possible, use rideshares or public transport rather than walking through the area. 

2. Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles ranks high on the list of most dangerous areas in the city. The city’s bustling core is full of shops, offices, and nightlife, but that energy also brings risks. For a student fresh to LA, this means being alert without feeling overwhelmed.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

Downtown LA’s crime rate sits at roughly 255.8 per 1,000 residents. That’s more than seven times higher than the city average, so you can see why it stands out among the dangerous parts of Los Angeles. Assaults, robberies, and property crimes are the main concerns here. Nighttime, especially from 10 PM to 2 AM, sees a spike in incidents. Even in busy streets, pickpocketing and opportunistic theft happen, so your guard must be up. While police presence is visible, it doesn’t guarantee safety everywhere—some pockets remain riskier than others.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If you’re heading downtown after dark, never walk alone. Stick to well-lit streets packed with people. Busy corners and popular cafes tend to be safer than quiet side streets. Sharing your location with a friend is a smart move.. Public transport or rideshares after 10 PM are better than walking. Planning your route ahead can save you from unexpected detours through dangerous streets. Downtown’s charm is real, but respect the risks and keep your wits about you.

3. Hollywood

Hollywood’s global fame can’t hide the fact that it’s one of the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles. With a dense population and heavy tourist traffic, crime rates here are notably high compared to other parts of the city.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

The crime rate in Hollywood clocks in at around 5,000 per 100,000 residents, which is more than double the city average. Property theft and pickpocketing top the list, especially near popular attractions. Assaults, though less frequent, do occur, particularly in the southeast section, where roughly one in eight residents face crime. The busy streets can give a false sense of security; however, crowded places don’t guarantee safety if you’re not cautious.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If you find yourself in Hollywood after 9 PM, avoid walking alone. Stick to well-lit, busy streets, especially around nightlife hubs. Rely on trusted transport or rideshare apps to move safely after dark. Keep your belongings close and stay alert. Respecting these simple rules can let you soak in Hollywood’s energy without compromising your safety in this dangerous area of Los Angeles.

4. Koreatown

Koreatown is a bustling hub, but it also ranks among the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles. The crime rate here sits about 32% above the national average, making it a spot where staying sharp really matters.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

Koreatown’s challenges include gang presence, drug-related offences, and prostitution, which tend to rise after dark. Violent crimes like assaults and robberies usually hit their peak between 6 PM and midnight. Property crimes aren’t rare either: car break-ins and theft happen often, especially around crowded nightlife spots. It’s a lively area, but the buzz can sometimes hide risks.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If you’re living or studying near Koreatown, take care when moving around after sunset. Stick to busy, well-lit streets and avoid isolated corners, especially near clubs and bars. Choose trusted rides or public transport late at night. Being aware of your surroundings in this dangerous area in Los Angeles will keep you safe and let you enjoy the vibrant culture without worry.

5. West Adams

West Adams carries a rich history but also stands out as one of the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles. Crime rates here soar 143% above the national average, making safety a serious consideration.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

The biggest issues in West Adams are violent crimes linked to gang and drug activity. Gun violence, robbery, and assault make up the majority of incidents. The danger spikes from early evening through to the early hours, especially between 7 PM and 3 AM. While the community is working on improvements, these challenges still persist, making it an area to treat with respect and caution.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If your studies or stay bring you close to West Adams, prioritise safety after dark. Avoid poorly lit streets and stay alert to local updates on crime. Walking alone late at night isn’t wise here. Stick to busy, familiar routes and opt for trustworthy transport when you head out late. 

6. Compton

Known for its tough reputation, Compton ranks high among the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles. The crime rate here sits about 64% above the national average, so it demands respect when it comes to safety.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

You’ll find a significant number of violent incidents of shootings, assaults, and robberies happening regularly. The presence of gangs and drug-related offences only adds to the area’s risks.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If your life in LA brings you near Compton, avoid being out late, especially from 9 PM to 3 AM, when most violent crimes occur. Walking alone at night is not advisable here. Stick to safer, busier neighbourhoods and ensure your travel plans include trusted transport. 

7. Lincoln Heights

Lincoln Heights stands out as one of the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles, with violent crimes happening at more than twice the city’s average rate. It’s a neighbourhood where staying alert really matters.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

You’ll find frequent assaults, robberies, and gang-related incidents here. Property crimes like theft and carjackings also happen regularly, adding to the safety concerns. Most trouble occurs in the late evening, roughly between 8 PM and midnight. Dark, quiet streets and abandoned areas tend to attract crime.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If you’re planning to study in LA, it’s smart to avoid Lincoln Heights after sunset. Stick to busy, well-lit routes and keep your phone handy. Taking these steps helps you steer clear of the dangerous parts of Los Angeles

8. South Los Angeles

South Los Angeles ranks among the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles, with a crime rate nearly four times the national average. Caution is definitely needed in this area.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

Violent crimes such as shootings, assaults, and robberies are common here. Drug trafficking and gang-related issues make safety even more complicated. Crime occurs throughout the day but increases from early morning until midnight. The northeast section experiences more incidents than the southwest.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If you’re moving to study in LA, it’s best to be extra careful after dark. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar places. Stick to well-populated streets and keep an eye on local safety updates. Staying informed helps you avoid this dangerous part of LA.

9. Fashion District

The Fashion District is counted among the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles. Its crime rate stands at more than double the national average.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

Theft and assault are the main issues here. While the district buzzes with activity during the day, things quiet down after dark. Between 7 PM and midnight, fewer people are around, which can increase risk. Less foot traffic means less protection in numbers.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

Though lively during the day, this area calls for caution after sunset. Avoid wandering alone late at night, especially in isolated corners. Stick to well-lit streets and keep your valuables close. Staying alert to your surroundings will help you steer clear of this dangerous area in Los Angeles.

10. Watts

Watts ranks among the most dangerous parts of LA, with crime rates significantly above the national average.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

This neighbourhood sees higher rates of violent crimes such as assault, robbery, and gun violence compared to many other parts of the city. The hours between 7 PM and midnight are particularly risky, as gang activity tends to peak during this time.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

Despite ongoing community efforts to improve safety, Watts still struggles with issues like poverty and crime. For students, it’s best to avoid wandering alone here, especially after dark. If you must be nearby, stay on busy, well-lit streets and keep your plans clear. Staying alert will help you steer clear of trouble in this dangerous area in Los Angeles.

11. Leimert Park

Leimert Park stands out as one of the most dangerous parts of LA, with crime rates well above the city average.

Crime Profile and Safety Concerns

Violent crimes like assault, robbery, and gun violence happen frequently here. Property crimes like burglary and car theft add to the list of concerns. The late-night hours, especially between 9 PM and 3 AM, see the highest risk. That’s when you need to be extra alert.

What You Need To Keep in Mind?

If your studies or work keep you out late, avoid walking alone in Leimert Park after dark. Stick to busy, well-lit streets and trusted routes. This area demands awareness; it’s one of the dangerous parts of Los Angeles where caution can make all the difference.

Also Read: Explore The Best Neighborhoods In Los Angeles

Tips To Be Safe While Living In Los Angeles

1. Know Which Areas to Avoid and When

Los Angeles’s most dangerous areas aren’t random. They tend to cluster around certain neighbourhoods and times. Do your homework on these spots before you move or head out. Avoid poorly lit or quiet streets after dark, especially in known dangerous places in Los Angeles, like parts of Skid Row or Hollywood. Being aware of where trouble is most likely to happen helps you plan smarter routes and keep your peace of mind.

2. Stay Visible and Keep Valuables Hidden

Crowded places in dangerous Los Angeles areas attract pickpockets and opportunists. Keep your phone and wallet out of sight and secure. Don’t flash expensive gadgets in busy markets or on public transport. Walking confidently with your head up and avoiding distractions like your phone or headphones makes you less of a target.

3. Trust Your Gut and Stick to Busy, Familiar Routes

If a street or area feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to take a longer, well-lit route or use trusted transport options instead of navigating through isolated spots. Most dangerous Los Angeles areas have quieter corners where trouble can easily happen, so sticking to busy streets is a simple way to stay safer.

4. Connect and Communicate

Tap into local student groups or your university’s safety resources. Other students and locals often have valuable, up-to-date advice about dangerous places in Los Angeles. Sharing info about trouble spots and safe zones keeps you informed and part of a supportive community, reducing risks.

Also Read: Best Places To Visit In Los Angeles: Must-See Attractions – 2025

Wrapping Up!

Starting life in Los Angeles is exciting, but knowing the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles helps you keep your head clear and your feet steady. This city offers endless opportunities, but it pays to be wise about where you go and when. You don’t have to live in fear, just be smart. With the right info, you’ll find your rhythm, enjoy new friendships, and focus on what really matters: your studies and your future. 

And while you’re sorting out where to live, UniAcco makes it simple to compare premium, affordable student accommodation in Los Angeles, so you can find a safe, comfortable place without the usual hassle. 

Also Read: Why You Will Find The Safest Student Accommodations On UniAcco

FAQs

1. What are the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles to avoid?

When it comes to dangerous parts of Los Angeles, places like Skid Row, South LA, and certain sections of Hollywood top the list. These areas report higher crime rates, making them some of the most dangerous parts of LA. It’s wise to avoid these neighbourhoods, especially after dark, to stay safe.

2. Is Downtown LA safe at night?

Downtown LA, while bustling by day, can be risky after sunset. Skid Row, located within Downtown, is often cited as the most dangerous area in Los Angeles. At night, it’s best to stick to well-lit, busy streets and avoid isolated spots to minimise risks in this part of the city.

3. Which is the most dangerous street in LA?

The label of the most dangerous street in LA often goes to certain stretches within Skid Row and parts of South Los Angeles. These streets experience high rates of violent crime, theft, and drug-related offences, so it is highly recommended that you steer clear of them, especially at night.

4. Is Los Angeles a safe place to live overall?

Los Angeles offers a vibrant lifestyle with plenty to love, from sunny beaches to diverse job opportunities. However, it’s important to remember that the city has some dangerous areas in Los Angeles that you should be aware of.