Los Angeles, known for its sprawling metropolis and iconic landmarks, unfortunately also grapples with crime issues in certain neighborhoods. In 2024, some areas in Los Angeles are considered more dangerous due to higher crime rates. This article explores the ten most dangerous neighborhoods in Los Angeles, along with broader crime trends in the city and state.
1. Downtown LA
Downtown LA, despite its high rises and attractions like the Crypto.com Arena, faces a crime rate 530% higher than the national average. Issues like the homeless crisis, pickpocketing, and robberies are prevalent here.
2. West Adams
West Adams, a historic neighborhood in South LA, presents a 1 in 15 chance of residents becoming a victim of crime. Common crimes include gun violence, robbery, assault, and theft.
3. Wholesale District/Skid Row
Known for one of the nation’s largest homeless encampments, Skid Row in the Wholesale District receives an “F” safety rating from Crimegrade.org. Crime occurs here every 2 hours and 5 minutes on average, with a notable presence of drug and gang activity.
4. Hollywood
Hollywood, contrasting its glamorous TV image, has a total crime rate 147% higher than the national average. The area is central to Los Angeles and a tourist hotspot but struggles with crime.
5. South Los Angeles
South LA, while housing several hidden gems, continues to experience higher crime rates than the national average, with a rate of 4,268 per 100,000 people. However, crime has decreased since the 1990s.
6. Compton
About 30 miles south of downtown LA, Compton is known for gun violence, drug activity, poverty, and violent crime.
7. Watts
In Watts, the chance of becoming a victim of crime is 1 in 29. The neighborhood is not safe for walking at night, and carrying valuables or large amounts of cash is discouraged.
8. Koreatown
Koreatown, one of LA’s most densely populated neighborhoods, experiences gang and drug activity, along with prostitution.
9. Fashion District
The Fashion District in downtown LA has a violent crime victim rate of 1 in 35. It was once known as the Garment District.
10. North Hollywood
North Hollywood, the only neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley on this list, has parts known for gang and drug activity despite safe areas around the 170 Freeway, and Magnolia and Lankershim boulevards.
Los Angeles Crime Trends
Los Angeles crime statistics show an overall downward trend in both violent and property crimes over 21 years. However, the city’s violent crime rate in 2019 was 92.97% higher than the national average, and its property crime rate was 12.96% higher.
By 2024, the crime rate is projected to be lower than in 2019. Notably, the projected crime rate in 2024 shows an increase in incidents of aggravated assault, larceny and theft, motor vehicle theft, rape, and robbery compared to 2019.
California Crime Trends
In 2023, California experienced a spike in violent crimes, reaching its highest since roughly 2008, and consistently outpacing national trends. This increase was primarily due to a rise in aggravated assault, retail theft, and motor-vehicle theft.
In 2022, California averaged 499.5 reported violent crimes per 100,000 people, compared to 380.7 per 100,000 in the U.S. California’s violent crime trends have mostly matched national trends since 2014, but the gap has widened in recent years.
Understanding these crime statistics and trends is crucial for residents and those planning to visit Los Angeles. While the city offers many attractions and vibrant communities, being aware of and cautious in these high-risk areas can help in making informed decisions for safety and security.