Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Baltimore
Go Back To Previous PageBaltimore is known for its working-class character, colonial history, and excellent seafood. However, it often suffers from a negative reputation, particularly because of concerns about violent crime, and much of that reputation is justified. Despite being a regional economic and cultural hub, the city has a crime rate that is significantly higher than the national average. If you are considering visiting or moving to Baltimore, it’s important to be aware of the twelve neighborhoods in the city that are generally best to avoid. Let’s discuss the Dangerous Neighborhoods in Baltimore.
Is Baltimore Dangerous?
Baltimore is considered a dangerous city, with a crime rate of 6,170 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 164% higher than the national average. The city faces significant challenges related to gang and drug-related violence, and it has an alarmingly high murder rate of 36 per 100,000 people—over 700% higher than the U.S. average.
In summary, Baltimore ranks as one of the most dangerous cities in the United States because of its exceptionally high rates of violent crime.
1. Middle East
The most dangerous neighborhood in Baltimore is Middle East, located in East Baltimore. This area has a population of around 7,100 residents. Despite its proximity to Johns Hopkins
Medical Center, Middle East has experienced significant urban decay, with many streets nearly abandoned.
The crime rate in Middle East is a staggering 10,945 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 445% higher than the Maryland state average. In addition to its extremely high property crime rate, Middle East is also noted for being one of the most violent neighborhoods in Baltimore.
2. Fairfield
Fairfield is considered one of the most dangerous areas in Baltimore. This neighborhood, located along I-895, has a small population of just 530 residents. Despite its size, Fairfield’s crime rate is 391% higher than the state average in Maryland.
The area faces significant challenges, including severe poverty, urban decay, and a lack of essential services. Property crimes reported are frequent, and the violent crime rate is an alarming 667% higher than the national average.
3. West Baltimore
West Baltimore is considered one of the most challenging neighborhoods in the city. Although it is situated near the University of Maryland’s downtown campuses, the crime rate in West Baltimore is a staggering 350% higher than the national average. The area also struggles with some of the lowest-ranked schools and limited employment opportunities, with many residents living below the poverty line. Despite recent renovation projects, West Baltimore continues to be one of the most violent neighborhoods in Baltimore.
4. East Monument Historic District
The East Monument Historic District is a neighborhood in Baltimore that is notable for its artistic Bohemian community, which thrived in the city during the early 20th century. This area has a rich history of European immigration and African American culture, which has earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
However, East Monument faces significant challenges with crime statistics, as its violent crime rate is 317% higher than the national average according to law enforcement agencies
5. Pulaski
Pulaski is a notably dangerous neighborhood in Baltimore. This small community, with a population of only 475, experiences an alarmingly high crime rate. In fact, the total crime rate in Pulaski is 307% above the national average, and the area suffers from a lack of education and employment opportunities. Although Pulaski is home to the National Aquarium, visitors are often advised not to wander too far from the aquarium complex.
6. Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill, which is home to the largest public housing project in Baltimore, has a crime rate that is 291% higher than the state average. The area is notorious for gang activity, with violent crime and drug trafficking being common occurrences. Local gangs have consistently posed challenges for residents.
Many individuals in the community live at or below the poverty line, and as a result, the average home price is only $74,538.
7. Greenmount East
Greenmount East has a population of 11,041 and a total crime rate that is 277% above the national average, making it one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Baltimore. This area is known for its high rates of burglary and theft, as well as being a significant gang territory. Shootings and other violent crimes, such as sexual assaults, are fairly common in Greenmount East.
Residents have reported feeling inadequately protected by the police, and it is not recommended to travel through this neighborhood on foot.
8. Highlandtown
Highlandtown is regarded as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Baltimore. Despite its creative atmosphere and community-oriented vibe, it features many brick row houses and local pubs. The neighborhood is also located near Patterson Park and the Creative Alliance Theater.
However, Highlandtown has a total crime rate that is 209% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is not only 59% higher than in the rest of Baltimore but also an astonishing 567% higher than the national average. The neighborhood is extremely unsafe, with odds of 1 in 14 that a resident will be a victim of a crime.
9. Greater Rosemont
Greater Rosemont is a hazardous neighborhood in Baltimore that is also one of the most neglected and underserved areas of the city. With a population of 18,664, Greater Rosemont’s total crime rate is 202% above the national average.
Some buildings in the neighborhood are so dilapidated that there have been reports of collapses that have resulted in injuries or fatalities among residents. While Greater Rosemont’s crime rate may not be the highest in the city, it is still advisable to avoid this area.
10. Berea
Berea is considered one of Baltimore’s most dangerous neighborhoods because of its exceptionally high crime rates. Located in the East District, Berea is a historic area characterized by affordable row houses situated on grassy plots. It is conveniently bordered by US Route 40 and Edison Highway, providing easy access to downtown Baltimore.
However, Berea has a crime rate that is 195% higher than the national average, making it more dangerous than 80% of the cities in Maryland. Additionally, the violent crime data in Berea is 59% higher than the overall rate in Baltimore and an alarming 570% higher than the national average.
11. Grove Park
Grove Park is a dangerous neighborhood in Baltimore, home to a population of 1,872. The crime rate in this area is 187% higher than the Maryland average. Although recent efforts have been made to construct new housing, much of Grove Park has suffered from urban decay.
Violent crimes, including robbery, assault, and murder, occur at rates significantly higher than the national average.
12. Sandtown-Winchester
Sandtown-Winchester is a neighborhood in West Baltimore that has a disproportionately high number of residents living below the poverty line. Additionally, the area faces an unemployment rate that is nearly double the city average and is significantly impacted by drug trafficking, gang activity, and widespread property theft. Sandtown-Winchester also has a troubled history, including being the site of the 2015 Freddie Gray riots.
Violent crime is prevalent in this community, and much of its negative reputation is warranted. Despite being a regional economic and cultural hub, Baltimore’s overall crime rate is significantly higher than the national average. If you are considering visiting or relocating, here are twelve neighborhoods in Baltimore that you should avoid.
Georges has been working in Wall Street for the last 16 years trading derivatives with hedge funds. He has been an active real estate investor for over a decade. Georges graduated from HEC Business School in Paris and holds a master in Finance from ESADE Barcelona.
