Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Detroit
Go Back To Previous PageDetroit, known as the Motor City, is the largest metropolitan area in Michigan by population. It is home to the Lions, Tigers, and Pistons – quite an impressive lineup! This Midwestern hub is bustling and vibrant, but you may be wondering: Is Detroit safe? Why is public safety such a challenge?
Whether you’re planning to visit or stay, it’s important to understand the crime rate in Detroit and identify the safest neighborhoods. Let’s explore this topic further.
Is Detroit Safe?
It’s a common concern when considering a new city: will I be safe there? Big cities often face issues with crime and dangerous situations, making it natural to have worries. So, is Detroit
dangerous?
1. Belmont: the Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Detroit
The most dangerous neighborhood in Detroit is Belmont, characterized by its high rates of murders and shootings each year. The crime rate in Belmont stands at 14,048 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 664% higher than the national average. Residents face a 1 in 8 chance of becoming victims of any type of crime.
Gang activity is particularly prevalent in Belmont, and associated crimes such as robberies, assaults, and drug-related offenses are common. The median home price in Belmont is $29,300.
2. Petosky-Otsego: the second Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Detroit
One of the most troubled neighborhoods in Detroit is Petosky-Otsego. This area has a population of 7,177 and a crime rate that is 626% higher than the Michigan average. There are 13,342 crimes committed per 100,000 people, which means the likelihood of becoming a victim is 1 in 8. Gang activity is common in this neighborhood, and residents frequently express concerns about not feeling adequately protected by law enforcement.
The median home price in Petosky-Otsego is $23,667, which is 81% lower than the Michigan average.
3. Van Steuban
Van Steuben is a highly troubled area in Detroit, located in the northern part of the city. It has a population of 6,379. The crime rate in Van Steuben is alarmingly high: 12,742 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 593% above the national average. This means that residents face a 1 in 8 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
The neighborhood also struggles with a significant poverty rate, which results in many unsafe buildings and homes falling into disrepair. The median income for residents in Van Steuben is $34,416, while the median home price is just $30,738.
4. Fishkorn
Fishkorn is recognized as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Detroit. Its crime rate is 12,451 incidents per 100,000 people, 577% more dangerous than the state average in Michigan. Residents face a 1 in 9 chance of becoming victims of any crime.
Additionally, Fishkorn reports one of the highest rates of pedestrians being struck by vehicles. This high incidence of crime statistics reflects a significant level of dysfunction and inadequate policing in the area. The median home price in Fishkorn is only $22,662, 59% lower than the national average.
5. Warrendale
Warrendale is considered one of the most dangerous areas in Detroit, facing significant challenges with crime. With a population of just 17,200, the crime rate in Warrendale stands at an alarming 12,432 incidents per 100,000 people.
This figure is 576% higher than the average crime rate in Michigan, meaning residents have a 1 in 9 chance of becoming a victim of crime. The neighborhood has been greatly impacted by urban decay and a decline in population, largely because of a lack of job opportunities. Furthermore, the median home price in Warrendale is a mere $17,650.
6. Greensbriar
One of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Detroit is Greensbriar. This area has a population of 2,531, and in 2022, the crime rate was 549% higher than the national average. Residents face a 1 in 7 chance of becoming victims of various types of crime.
Gang violence is prevalent in Greensbriar, leading to shootings, robberies, and drug-related activities. The neighborhood struggles with high unemployment and poverty, with a median income of $31,313. The current median home price is $31,200.
7. Franklin Park
Franklin Park is considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Detroit. With a population of 11,290 and a crime rate 543% higher than the national average, residents in Franklin Park face a 1 in 9 chance of becoming a victim of any crime.
The area is characterized by a high incidence of gang and illegal drug activity, making it a hotspot for robberies, homicides, and assaults. The median income in Franklin Park is only $29,235, and the median home price is $30,264.
8. Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald has a population of 5,100 and a crime rate of 11,236 incidents per 100,000 people. This crime rate is 516% higher than the average for Michigan, meaning residents face a 1 in 9 chance of becoming a victim of crime.
Recently, efforts have been made to revitalize parts of the neighborhood; however, urban decay and crime continue to be significant issues. Fitzgerald struggles with many typical inner-city challenges, including unemployment, poverty, and underperforming schools.
9. The Eye
The Eye is a distinctive neighborhood named for the community watch groups that were established in the 1980s to deter break-ins. Unfortunately, crime remains a significant issue in this area.
The Eye has a population of 3,437 and a crime rate of 10,642 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 479% higher than the average in Michigan. Residents face a 1 in 10 chance of becoming victims of any type of crime. For safety reasons, it is not advisable to walk or drive through this neighborhood, especially at night.
10. Poletown East
Poletown East is considered one of the most challenging neighborhoods in Detroit. With a small population of only 517 residents, it faces significant issues related to safety and crime. The crime rate in Poletown East is 307% higher than the Michigan average, averaging 7,488 crimes per 100,000 people.
This means that residents have a 1 in 14 chance of becoming a victim of any type of crime. Additionally, Poletown East struggles with extremely high poverty rates, with the average income amounting to just $16,286.
Most Dangerous Areas in Detroit Bottom Line
Detroit is widely recognized for its urban decay and abandoned buildings. However, certain areas of the city are particularly dangerous and have unusually high crime rates. Whether you live or work in the Detroit area, here are ten neighborhoods you should avoid.
These neighborhoods not only have elevated rates of violent and property crime, but they also suffer from significant urban decay and a low quality of life for their residents.
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.
