Baltimore is renowned for its blue-collar identity, colonial past, and exceptional seafood. Unfortunately, the city has garnered an infamous reputation for its high levels of violent crime, which, to a great extent, is warranted. Although Baltimore serves as a hub for both regional economy and culture, its crime rate is significantly higher than the national average. Therefore, if you plan to move to Baltimore, it is advisable to steer clear of these ten neighborhoods, which are notorious for being the most dangerous in the city.
Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Baltimore
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- Middle East
- Fairfield
- West Baltimore
- East Monument Historic District
- Pulaski
- Cherry Hill
- Greenmount East
- Greater Rosemont
- Grove Park
- Sandtown-Winchester
1. Middle East
The Middle East neighborhood in Baltimore is considered to be the most dangerous area in the city. Situated in East Baltimore and with a population of 7,100, the neighborhood has experienced severe urban decay, resulting in entire streets being nearly abandoned. Despite its proximity to Johns Hopkins Medical Center, the crime rate in Middle East Baltimore is alarmingly high at 10,945 per 100,000, which is 445% higher than the Maryland state average. In addition to being notorious for property crimes, this neighborhood is also one of the most violent areas in Baltimore.
2. Fairfield
Fairfield, situated along the I-895, is considered one of the most perilous areas in Baltimore. Despite its small population of only 530, the neighborhood has a crime rate that surpasses the Maryland state average by 391%. The community is plagued by severe poverty, urban decay, and a dearth of services, leading to a prevalence of property crimes. Shockingly, the violent crime rate alone is 667% higher than the national average in Fairfield.
3. West Baltimore
West Baltimore stands out as one of the most troubled neighborhoods in Baltimore, with a crime rate that is a staggering 350% higher than the national average. Despite being situated in close proximity to the University of Maryland’s downtown campuses, West Baltimore is grappling with some of the worst-ranked schools and employment prospects in the city. The majority of its residents live below the poverty line, making the situation even more dire. While there have been some recent renovation projects, the neighborhood continues to be plagued by violence, making it one of the most dangerous areas in the city.
4. East Monument Historic District
The Bohemian community of the early 20th century left an artistic imprint on the East Monument Historic District, a Baltimore neighborhood. The area has a rich history of European immigration and African-American culture, which earned it a spot in the National Register of Historic Places. However, the neighborhood is currently facing a concerning crime problem, with a violent crime rate that exceeds the national average by 317%.
5. Pulaski
Pulaski, a small community with a population of only 475, is considered as one of the most perilous neighborhoods in Baltimore. Shockingly, the area has a crime rate that is 307% above the national average, which is further compounded by the lack of education and employment opportunities. Despite being home to the National Aquarium, visitors are often cautioned not to wander too far from the building complex due to the high crime rate prevalent in the area.
6. Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill, which boasts the largest public housing project in Baltimore, is unfortunately plagued by a crime rate that is 291% higher than the state average. The area is notorious for its gang activity, which often results in violent crime and drug trafficking. Neighborhood residents are frequently troubled by the activities of local gangs. It is worth noting that many of Cherry Hill’s residents are living at or below the poverty level, which contributes to the area’s struggles. As a result of these issues, the average price of a home in Cherry Hill is a modest $74,538.
7. Greenmount East
With a population of 11,041, Greenmount East has a total crime rate that is a staggering 277% above the national average. This neighborhood is notorious for its high burglary and theft rates, as well as being a major gang area in Baltimore. Shootings are unfortunately a fairly common occurrence in Greenmount East, along with other violent crimes like assaults. Residents here report feeling inadequately protected by the police, and it is not recommended to travel through this area on foot.
8. Greater Rosemont
The Greater Rosemont area in Baltimore is considered one of the most neglected and underserved neighborhoods and also happens to be a dangerous one. Despite having a population of 18,664, this area has a total crime rate that is 202% higher than the national average. Reports suggest that some of the buildings in Greater Rosemont are in such a state of disrepair that they have collapsed, resulting in fatalities. It is highly recommended to stay clear of this area, even though the crime rate may not be as high as in other parts of the city.
9. Grove Park
Grove Park, a neighborhood in Baltimore, is known for its high crime rate which is 187% higher than the Maryland average. Despite some recent efforts to construct new housing in the area, much of Grove Park has succumbed to urban decay. The population of the neighborhood is 1,872 and it has a reputation for violent crimes such as robbery, assault, and murder that are significantly higher compared to the national average.
10. Sandtown-Winchester
Sandtown-Winchester, a community in West Baltimore, is home to a significant number of residents living below the poverty line. The area is greatly affected by drug trafficking, gang activity, and rampant property theft, as well as an unemployment rate nearly twice the city average. Furthermore, Sandtown-Winchester has a turbulent history of unrest, as evidenced by the 2015 Freddie Gray riots that took place there.
