According to Propertyclub, Baltimore is famous for its blue-collar charm, rich colonial heritage, and exquisite seafood. However, it’s no secret that the city has struggled with a high crime rate, which has tainted its reputation. While Baltimore serves as a thriving economic and cultural center in the region, it is important to be aware of the ten neighborhoods with the highest crime rates if you are considering a move to the area.
Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Baltimore
This Article Includes
-
- Middle East
- Fairfield
- West Baltimore
- East Monument Historic District
- Pulaski
- Cherry Hill
- Greenmount EastÂ
- Greater Rosemont
- Grove Park
- Sandtown-Winchester
1. Middle East
The Middle East neighborhood in Baltimore is considered to be the most dangerous area in the city. Situated in East Baltimore, this neighborhood is home to a population of 7,100 residents. Despite its proximity to the renowned Johns Hopkins Medical Center, Middle East has experienced significant urban decay, resulting in the abandonment of entire streets. The crime rate in Middle East is a staggering 10,945 per 100,000, which is 445% higher than the state average in Maryland. This neighborhood not only has a remarkably high rate of property crimes but is also notorious for its level of violence, making it one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Baltimore.
2. Fairfield
Fairfield, situated along the I-895, is notorious for being one of the most perilous areas in Baltimore. Despite its small population of just 530 residents, this neighborhood experiences a staggering crime rate that is 391% higher than the Maryland state average. Plagued by widespread poverty, urban decay, and inadequate services, Fairfield is a hotbed for property crimes, with the violent crime rate alone soaring to a shocking 667% above the national average.
3. West Baltimore
West Baltimore stands out as one of the most notorious neighborhoods in Baltimore. Despite its proximity to the University of Maryland’s downtown campuses, West Baltimore experiences an alarming crime rate that surpasses the national average by a staggering 350%. Additionally, the neighborhood’s schools and employment opportunities rank poorly within the city, leaving many residents below the poverty line. Despite some recent renovation efforts, West Baltimore continues to grapple with high levels of violence, making it one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the city.
4. East Monument Historic District
The East Monument Historic District in Baltimore is renowned for its thriving Bohemian Community during the early 20th century. This neighborhood, which has a rich history of European Immigration and African-American culture, has been recognized and added to the National Register of Historic Places. However, East Monument currently faces a significant crime problem, with a violent crime rate that surpasses the national average by 317%.
5. Pulaski
Pulaski, a small community with a population of only 475, is known to be a dangerous neighborhood in Baltimore. This area has an alarmingly high crime rate, surpassing the national average by 307%. Unfortunately, Pulaski lacks educational and employment opportunities, contributing to its challenging circumstances. Despite being home to the National Aquarium, visitors are frequently cautioned against venturing too far from the building complex due to safety concerns.
6. Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill, the largest public housing project in Baltimore, is plagued by a crime rate that is 291% higher than the state average. This neighborhood is notorious for its gang activity, with violent crime and drug trafficking being everyday occurrences. The residents of Cherry Hill often face ongoing troubles caused by local gangs. Additionally, the majority of residents live below the poverty level, resulting in an average home price of just $74,538.
7. Greenmount
Greenmount East, with a population of 11,041, experiences a total crime rate that is 277% higher than the national average. This neighborhood is notorious for its elevated levels of burglary and theft, and is considered a significant gang territory in Baltimore. Shootings and other violent crimes, like assaults, are unfortunately frequent occurrences in Greenmount East. Residents often express concerns about the lack of sufficient police protection, making it inadvisable to travel on foot through this area.
8. Greater Rosemont
Greater Rosemont, a neglected and underserved neighborhood in Baltimore, is also known for its high crime rate. With a population of 18,664, Greater Rosemont’s total crime rate is a staggering 202% above the national average. The state of disrepair in this area is evident in some of the buildings, which have been reported to collapse and tragically claim the lives of residents. While the crime rate in Greater Rosemont may not be as dire as in other parts of the city, it is still recommended to steer clear of this neighborhood.
9. Grove Park
Grove Park, located in Baltimore, is a neighborhood known for its high crime rate and urban decay. With a population of 1,872, it experiences a crime rate that is 187% higher than the Maryland average. Despite some recent attempts to develop new housing in the area, Grove Park continues to struggle with issues of violence, including robbery, assault, and murder, which surpass the national average.
10. Sandtown-Winchester
Sandtown-Winchester, located in West Baltimore, is a community that unfortunately has a high concentration of residents living below the poverty line. It is also heavily impacted by various challenges, including a significantly higher unemployment rate compared to the city average. As a result, Sandtown is plagued by issues such as drug trafficking, gang activity, and widespread property theft. Moreover, this area has a troubled past that includes being the epicenter of the 2015 Freddie Gray riots.