As an analysis of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Phoenix, Arizona, the data from 2024 highlights several areas with high crime rates. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 dangerous neighborhoods based on violent crimes per 100,000 people:
- Central City: With a population of 60,045, Central City has a violent crime rate of 2,705 crimes per 100,000 people, which is 228% of the average rate in Phoenix.
- Alahambra: Home to 134,116 residents, Alahambra experiences 1,562 violent crimes per 100,000 people, 89% higher than the city average.
- Encanto: Encanto’s population of 57,606 faces a violent crime rate of 1,312 per 100,000 people, 59% above the Phoenix average.
- South Mountain: With 131,125 inhabitants, this neighborhood has a violent crime rate of 970 per 100,000, 18% higher than the city’s average.
- North Mountain: Hosting 178,370 people, it experiences 961 violent crimes per 100,000 people, 16% above the Phoenix average.
- Maryvale: With the largest population on the list at 247,287, Maryvale sees 917 violent crimes per 100,000 people, 11% higher than the city average.
- Estrella: Estrella’s 90,378 residents encounter a violent crime rate of 878 per 100,000, which is 6% more than the Phoenix average.
- Camelback East: This area, with a population of 149,454, has a violent crime rate of 826 per 100,000 people, at par with the city average.
- Laveen: Laveen, housing 65,011 people, has a violent crime rate of 729 per 100,000, 12% below the Phoenix average.
- Deer Valley: The largest neighborhood with 183,274 residents, Deer Valley experiences 521 violent crimes per 100,000 people, 37% below the city’s average.
Phoenix’s overall crime rate is 60.4% higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 825 per 100,000 residents, making it one of the most unsafe cities in the U.S. The city also has one of the nation’s highest murder rates and vehicle theft rates. However, it’s important to note that total crime in Phoenix has seen a 5.7% decrease year-over-year, with violent crime down by 1% and property crime by 7%.
The diverse neighborhoods in Phoenix each have unique crime rates influenced by location and socioeconomic factors. Neighborhoods close to the city center often report higher crime rates, while outlying neighborhoods tend to experience lower crime incidences. For instance, neighborhoods like Desert View, New Village, and North Gateway have lower crime rates compared to neighborhoods such as Central City, Alahambra, and Encanto.
It is essential for residents and potential movers to be aware of these crime rates and trends when considering safety in different areas of Phoenix.