Is New Orleans Safe?
Statistically speaking, New Orleans is relatively dangerous outside of a few tourist areas. The crime rate stands at 5,864 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 150% higher than the national average, making New Orleans one of the most dangerous cities in America. Residents face a 1 in 18 chance of becoming victims of any crime. Additionally, violent crime rates are also high, with an average of over 150 murders per year from 2014 to 2023.
1. Treme Lafitte: the Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in New Orleans
Treme Lafitte is considered the most dangerous neighborhood in New Orleans. Often referred to simply as Treme, this area is renowned for its jazz clubs, delicious restaurants, and historic homes. It is home to Louis Armstrong Park, the birthplace of jazz music, and the Lafitte Greenway.
However, Treme’s crime rate is significantly higher than the rest of the city. The violent crime rate is 136% greater than the city average and 821% higher than the national average. Additionally, property crime is 477% higher than in the rest of the United States, and residents face a 1 in 7 chance of becoming a victim of crime in Treme.
2. 7th Ward
The 7th Ward is one of the most dangerous areas in New Orleans. This historic community, a sub-district of Mid-City, is home to around 5,000 residents. Before the 1960s, it was a prosperous, middle-class neighborhood known for its famous musicians.
However, the construction of the I-10 Freeway adversely affected property values and contributed to an increase in crime in the area. The violent crime rate in the 7th Ward is 99% higher than that of the rest of New Orleans and 676% higher than the national average.
Residents face a 1 in 10 chance of becoming a victim of crime in this neighborhood. The 7th Ward continues to struggle with issues related to poverty, with the average annual income in the community being just $21,520.
3. Pines Village
Pines Village is considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New Orleans. With a population of 3,100, it has a crime rate that is 469% higher than the national average and 289% above the state average. The area faces particularly high rates of violent crime, with shootings and gang violence being common occurrences. Overall, residents have a 1 in 10 chance of becoming victims of a violent crime.
4. West Lake Forest
One of the most challenging neighborhoods in New Orleans is West Lake Forest. This area has a population of approximately 4,200 and is primarily comprised of low-income and working-class residents. The overall crime rate in West Lake Forest is 423% higher than the national average.
The neighborhood was significantly impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Although several redevelopment projects have taken place since the storm, West Lake Forest still struggles with safety issues and remains one of the more dangerous areas in New Orleans.
5. Central City
Central City is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in New Orleans. With a population of 13,000 residents, it has a crime rate that is 420% higher than the national average. The incidence of violent crime is particularly high, with gang activity and the drug trade being significant contributing factors. Central City is situated at the lower end of Uptown, just above the New Orleans Central Business District.
6. Desire
The Desire Projects are known to be one of the most crime-ridden areas in New Orleans. Located in the Ninth Ward, they are among the largest housing projects in the United States, encompassing nearly 1,860 units across 98.5 acres. Desire is recognized as one of the poorest and most underserved neighborhoods in New Orleans, with an overall crime rate that is 383% higher than the national average.
7. Saint Claude
Saint Claude has a population of 6,562 and a crime rate of 11,087 incidents per 100,000 people. This rate is 373% higher than the national average and 215% higher than the average in Louisiana. Shootings are frequent in Saint Claude and are often linked to gang violence and drug activity. Residents face a 1 in 10 chance of becoming a victim of any type of crime.
8. Saint Roch
Saint Roch has a population of 6,398 and a crime rate that is 365% higher than the national average. The area experiences a high concentration of violent crimes, including murders, robberies, and assaults. Property crime is even more prevalent, with car thefts and burglaries being the most common offenses. Residents in this area do not feel protected by the police, and shootings are common.
9. Venetian Isles
Venetian Isles is a small yet dangerous neighborhood in New Orleans. With a population of only 983, it has a crime rate of 314% higher than the national average and significantly exceeds the average for New Orleans. The neighborhood is largely uninhabited, as it is separated from the city by miles of undeveloped land.
10. Florida Area
In 1994, the Florida Project and the Desire Project were identified as the most dangerous housing developments in the United States. Although crime in the Florida area has decreased somewhat since then, it remains 296% higher than the national average. The area has a population of just over 1,400 residents. Your chances of becoming a victim of crime in the Florida area are approximately 1 in 11.
11. Lower 9th Ward
The Lower 9th Ward has a population of 5,560 and a crime rate that is 265% higher than the national average. The 9th Ward is a large area in New Orleans that includes several districts, such as Desire and the Lower 9th. Most of the Lower 9th Ward is situated along the Industrial Canal.
Most Dangerous Areas in New Orleans Bottom Line
New Orleans is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, but it also has issues with gang activity and violent crime. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and use common sense when visiting or living in the city. Fortunately, there are safe areas within New Orleans, and some neighborhoods are experiencing gentrification.
