Life in Washington DC doesn’t come without its dangers; there are several risks associated with living in Washington DC. For starters, there are some pretty dangerous areas in DC. In fact, according to NeigbhorhoodScout.com, Washington DC has one of the highest crime rates in America with a crime rate of 60 per 1,000 residents. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime is one in 17. But given that Washington DC is one of the most expensive cities to live in and is home to many of the top politicians and elite, it’s clear that there are safe places and bad neighborhoods in DC. And the question remains, “Where are the most dangerous neighborhoods in DC?” Well, we dove into some data to find the most dangerous neighborhoods in DC.
Washington Highlands/Bellevue ranks as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in DC. The Atlantic St SE/4th St SE area was ranked as number 22 on the "Top 25 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods" list by NeighborhoodScout.com.
The NoMA area, also known as North of Massachusetts, in the northeast part of DC, is notoriously known as one of the more dangerous areas in DC. Chart-It states that there are 187 average violent crime incidents every year in the area. Despite its ranking, NoMa is still worth a visit, and that’s because it hosts an annual Oktoberfest, which is touted as one of the best festivals in Washington DC.
Over the course of one year, the Washington Post reported that the Columbia Heights, Mount Pleasant, and Park View neighborhood cluster had the most violent crimes, with 406 cases, and the highest number of robberies, with 268. Just because the area is among the most dangerous parts of DC, don’t discount it altogether. It is home to one of the most enchanting parks in Washington DC. Plus, Columbia Heights and Mount Pleasant are some of the most historic neighborhoods in Washington DC.
Deanwood Metro Station regularly ranks on the list of most dangerous metro stations in the area. By July 2016, there had already been three people killed at the station.
Also on the northeast side of DC, Brentwood is known for its gritty violence. Shootings in broad daylight are not out of the norm here. According to AreaVibes.com, the overall crime rate in Brentwood is 179% higher than the national average.
The neighborhood cluster 23, which includes Ivy City, Trinidad, Carver, and Langston is also in Southeast DC and while gentrification is occurring in some parts of the cluster, violence is still high. There are 23 violent crimes per 1,000 residents according to Neighborhood Info, which is well above the city’s average of 10.
Washington DC politicians have been trying to clean up historic Anacostia for years and they are making great strides, but crime is still heavy in the area. Anacostia is a poor area and according to AreaVibes, the overall crime rate there is 223% higher than the national average. It does boast one huge perk, though. It’s home to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, one of the most scenic hikes in Washington DC.
Learn about the history of Anacostia:
So, did you know about these dangerous areas in DC? Know of a spot that should’ve been included? What do you think are the most dangerous neighborhoods in DC? Tell us in the comments!
