Miami is generally considered a safe city in comparison to other cities of similar size. Nevertheless, there are certain areas and neighborhoods in Miami that are not safe and should be avoided. To know more about the most dangerous neighborhoods in Miami, continue reading.
How Dangerous Is Miami?
Miami is a safe city, particularly when you stick to downtown and tourist areas. As a favored vacation and tourist destination, Miami is home to many celebrities, and therefore, the local police take great care to ensure the city remains secure.
Miami is a city that has both desirable and less desirable areas. The Downtown and Northern Miami areas are known to have higher crime rates compared to the southern areas, which are generally considered safer. Despite this, Miami does not rank among the most dangerous cities in America. It is still important to exercise caution or avoid visiting certain neighborhoods to ensure your safety.
If you’re curious about the sketchier parts of Miami, then keep reading to find out about the ten most perilous neighborhoods in the area.
10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Miami – A Closer Look
Model City
Model City, located in the Northwest quadrant of Miami, is considered the most dangerous neighborhood in the area with a population of 25,023. The neighborhood is infamous for its high rate of violent crime, particularly related to the drug trade. Incidents of gun violence, burglaries, robberies, and drive-by shootings are prevalent in this area. Shockingly, murders in Model City have steadily increased year after year, with a 40% increase from 2011 to 2013. Despite police presence and a decrease in crime activity in recent years, Model City remains a dangerous neighborhood, and it is strongly advised to avoid walking or biking in the area, especially during night-time hours.
Overtown
With a population of 9,640, Overtown is a prominent historic neighborhood in Miami. Although the area has an active police presence, residential parts of the neighborhood still face criminal activities. Drug trafficking, assaults, and shootings are some of the most reported crimes in Overtown. Shockingly, violent crimes in this neighborhood were ranked 124% higher than the national average in 2020. Due to the prevalence of predatory crimes, it is not recommended to walk or bike alone after dark, even in a group.
Downtown
With a population of 30,500, Downtown Miami is classified as one of the most violent areas in the city. Shockingly, the violent crime rate in this region is 186% higher than the national average. As of 2022, the probability of becoming a victim of any crime in this area is approximately 10%, while the possibility of experiencing a violent crime is 1.2%. To stay safe while exploring this part of the city, it is recommended to walk or bike during the daytime. Gang activity is a significant concern in Downtown Miami, and walking alone outside of tourist areas can be risky. Additionally, the streets are home to many homeless people, and panhandling is common. Even when travelling on public transport, it is advisable to remain alert and keep an eye out for potential thieves and pickpockets.
Allapattah
Allapattah, located north of downtown Miami, has a population of around 48,221. Once a Dominican residential village, it is now a diverse neighborhood. Although the crime rate in Allapattah is not excessive, there are certain areas of the neighborhood that are known for criminal activity. Unfortunately, there have been instances of shootings in the area, which has given it a negative reputation in Miami. Despite a significant police presence, crime rates in Allapattah are still 125% higher than the national average. During the day and evening, it is generally safe to walk or ride a bike in Allapattah. However, it is advisable to stay east of 9th Ave and north of 20th St. as these areas are known to have criminal elements. Public transit is available and relatively safe.
Little Haiti
Little Haiti is a city located north of Downtown Miami, with a population of approximately 29,760 residents. Originally founded as Lemon City, the community was established by Haitian immigrants and other Caribbean residents. Although Little Haiti has a significant Hispanic heritage, it is unfortunately known for its high crime rates. Shootings, assaults, and other violent crimes are prevalent in the area, with the violent crime rate being 200% higher than the national average. According to residents, police are not active in the community. It is recommended to visit Little Haiti during the daytime, as it can be dangerous at night.
Little Havana
Little Havana, situated west of downtown Miami, has a population of approximately 76,163. This neighborhood is famous for its Cuban legacy and restaurants. Nonetheless, gang-related violence continues to be an issue. Although there has been a decline in crime rates in recent times, violent and property crimes are still prevalent. Several residents believe that the police presence is insufficient. However, certain parts of Little Havana are safe, such as the central area, which is a well-known tourist destination, and the region west of 22 Ave and south of 8 St. Public transportation is available and a secure mode of travel.
Wynwood
Wynwood, a neighborhood situated north of Miami and south of the Design District of Little Haiti, is home to approximately 17,923 residents. Unfortunately, property crime is a common occurrence in this area, with car theft, vandalism, assault, and other forms of theft being reported frequently. Although Wynwood is relatively safer than 23% of Florida’s Miami neighborhoods, the violent crime rate is significantly higher than the national average, with a staggering 285% difference. Shockingly, 726 violent crimes and 6,542 property crimes were reported in 2021 alone, and many believe that there are numerous unreported cases of violent crimes that go unnoticed by the authorities.
West Flagler
West Flagler, a neighborhood located west of Miami, has a population of around 49,734. While it is possible to walk through this area during the day and night, it is advised not to do so alone due to the prevalence of petty crimes. Burglary incidents occur frequently in this neighborhood, with a total of 2,427 crimes per 100,000 residents, including theft, vehicle theft, and burglary making up 2,158 of those crimes.
Upper Eastside
Located east of Little Haiti, the Upper Eastside is known for being one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Miami, with a population of 7,725 residents. The violent crime rate in this area is significantly higher than the national average, reaching up to 230%.
The crime rate in this area is notably high, making it a perilous place to reside. Nonetheless, the police force is vigilant and quick to respond to any criminal activity.
South Coconut Grove
Locals often refer to Coconut Grove as The Grove, and it has a population of 7,956. Opinions on the area are mixed, with North Coconut Grove being 55% safer than the rest of Miami on average. However, South Coconut Grove can be more dangerous, particularly at night. Despite being 5% higher than the national average, the overall crime rate is manageable, and there is a noticeable police presence to ensure safety. Walking or biking around the area is generally safe. While the violent crime rate is 12% higher than the national average, it is important to note that there are measures in place to keep residents and visitors secure.
Read More:
