Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in San Diego
Go Back To Previous PageSan Diego is an excellent destination for adventure-seekers with its sunny beaches, extensive parks, and buzzing nightlife. However, some parts of the city aren’t safe, and many neighborhoods are known for their high crime rates. Read on to discover the twelve worst and most dangerous neighborhoods in San Diego.
1. Kearny Mesa: The Most Dangerous Neighborhood in San Diego
Kearny Mesa is considered the most dangerous neighborhood in San Diego. Located in the northern part of the city, it has a population of approximately 5,042 and a total crime rate of 456% higher than the national average.
Most crimes in Kearny Mesa are related to property offenses, including property theft, residential burglary, vehicle theft, and larceny. Additionally, some violent crimes, such as
assault and robbery, occur in the neighborhood.
2. East Village
East Village is considered one of the most challenging neighborhoods in San Diego. This large area covers over 130 blocks and has a population of around 10,000 residents. The crime rate in East Village is an astonishing 441% higher than the national average, making it one of the most violent neighborhoods in the city.
While some parts of East Village are relatively safe, many areas still face significant issues with violent crime and homelessness. Common crimes in the neighborhood include drug trafficking, theft, assault, homicide, and prostitution. Exercising common sense and prioritizing personal safety is essential, especially when walking alone at night.
3. Mission Valley
Mission Valley is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in San Diego. This narrow area is divided by the San Diego River and Interstate 8. It features several shopping centers with stores and chain restaurants and Snapdragon Stadium, home to the San Diego State Aztecs football team.
However, it has a high crime rate, with 10,423 crimes reported per 100,000 residents. This rate is 363% higher than the average for San Diego and 348% higher than the national average. Violent crime in Mission Valley is 223% above the national average, and residents face a 1 in 10 chance of becoming victims of crime in the neighborhood.
4. Cortez Hill
Cortez Hill is a neighborhood in San Diego that poses significant safety concerns. The city is located near downtown and Little Italy and has a population of approximately 2,891 residents. The crime rate in Cortez Hill is notably high, at 291% above the national average.
The area is also affected by poverty and homelessness, which includes several encampments. In 2022, there were 1,474 recorded violent incidents, with many instances of robbery and assault. Additionally, property crime and theft are ongoing issues in the neighborhood.
5. Little Italy
San Diego’s Little Italy is considered one of the city’s most dangerous neighborhoods. While the area is known for its trendy cocktail bars, upscale boutiques, and indie music venues, making it a popular tourist destination, it also faces significant safety concerns. The area is home to Waterfront Park, a well-loved greenspace that overlooks San Diego Bay.
Despite its appeal, Little Italy has a high crime rate of 8,741 crimes per 100,000 residents, 288% higher than the average for the rest of San Diego and 276% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is a staggering 352% higher than the national average, while property crime is 262% higher. Residents and visitors have a 1 in 12 chance of becoming a victim of crime in this neighborhood.
6. Columbia
Columbia is a neighborhood in downtown San Diego primarily comprised of commercial buildings. With a population of 1,641, its crime rate is 244% higher than the national average.
The area faces challenges such as a significant homeless population, a high property crime rate, and problems related to the drug trade. Additionally, violent crimes, including robbery, assault, and homicide, are common occurrences in this neighborhood.
7. Memorial
The memorial is in southeastern San Diego, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. The area has a population of approximately 14,637 residents, and its crime rate is 85% higher than the national average.
In 2022, 4,343 reported criminal incidents were reported, with theft, burglary, and drug trafficking being the most prevalent offenses.
8. College Area
The College Area is home to San Diego State University and has a significant student population. Unfortunately, it has developed a negative reputation because of property crime, with many student housing areas experiencing theft.
Additionally, the area has a large homeless population, which contributes to some of the property crime and unsanitary conditions. However, exercising common sense while traveling can help avoid most unsafe situations.
9. Marina
Marina is a waterfront neighborhood in the southwest section of the city of San Diego. While it offers beautiful ocean views, its crime rate is 54% higher than the national average.
Both violent and property crime rates are elevated, with incidents of theft, burglary, shootings, and gang activity being common. In addition to the high crime rate, the cost of living in Marina is also steep, with housing costs 148% above the national average.
10. San Ysidro
San Ysidro is a neighborhood located just north of the US-Mexico border. Its population is approximately 27,974. The total crime rate in San Ysidro is 43% higher than the national average.
Property crime is the area’s most prevalent type, particularly home and auto theft. Among violent crimes, assault and robbery are common occurrences. Additionally, drug trafficking poses a significant issue in San Ysidro, and there is some minor gang activity in the area.
11. Lemon Grove
Lemon Grove is a suburban area located just outside of San Diego. Initially known for its expansive citrus farms, it has a population of 26,700 and a violent crime rate 41% higher than the national average.
While it is not the most dangerous city on record, it still experiences various crimes, including theft, robbery, assault, and homicide. Although the area once had significant gang activity, this has decreased in recent years.
12. Barrio Logan
Barrio Logan is a transitioning neighborhood near downtown San Diego and Chula Vista. According to law enforcement agencies, with a population of 4,767, it faces crime-related challenges, with a crime rate 29% above the national average.
Property crime is a significant issue in the area, mainly theft and burglary, which are prevalent in some transitioning neighborhoods. While violent crime does occur, it is less frequent. Historically, Barrio Logan has had a gang presence, which, although diminished, still exists in the community.
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.
