Los Angeles, known for its vibrant culture, is also grappling with elevated crime rates in specific areas.

In this guide, we’ll explore five areas in the bustling metropolis that demand caution and vigilance due to their high-crime rates.

Exploring neighborhoods with a history of criminal activity, we aim to bring attention to areas where safety may be compromised.

Come along on our journey as we delve into these areas, offering valuable insights to assist you in navigating and safeguarding yourself in the ever-changing terrain of Los Angeles.

Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles has a reputation for being one of the city’s more challenging neighborhoods.

The heart of Los Angeles’ economy lies in Downtown, often referred to as DTLA.

Despite being the hub of Los Angeles’ economic activity, this neighborhood has a rather unsavory reputation.

Based on crime statistics from the FBI, it is evident that the violent crime rate in Downtown Los Angeles is significantly higher than the national average.

The crime rate in downtown Los Angeles is significantly higher than the nationwide average, especially when property offenses are considered.

In 2022, the Los Angeles Police Department recorded a total of 1,702 violent offenses.

Additionally, in 2018, the murder rate in downtown soared to an unprecedented 490, marking a record high.

It is strongly discouraged to walk at night, whether alone or in large groups.

Instances of pickpocketing and robberies are prevalent in downtown neighborhoods, while the issue of homelessness continues to persist.

Compton

Compton has a reputation for being one of Los Angeles’ most crime-ridden neighborhoods.

Despite a decrease in the crime rate during the 1990s, the neighborhood of Compton continues to face significant challenges, including drug selling, gun violence, poverty, and violent crime, which contribute to its reputation for being dangerous.

Compton, with a population of 97,740, has a crime rate of 3,533 per 100,000 residents, making it 51% more dangerous than the national average.

Despite a decrease in the murder rate in Compton over the past twenty years, it reached its peak in 2005, surpassing all other cities in the country.

However, there has been a noticeable rise in both violent and property crimes in Compton since 2020.

West Adam

West Adams is known for its high level of danger in Los Angeles. The neighborhood has a high crime rate, with 6,811 crimes per 100,000 residents or one in every 15 people.

The population stands at 11,961.

West Adams experiences a significant amount of criminal activity, primarily involving drugs and gangs, with a particular emphasis on violent offenses.

Despite the physical presence of the police force in this region, residents often voice their dissatisfaction with response times, citing the frequent occurrence of reported incidents.

Hollywood

It’s interesting to note that Los Angeles’ most hazardous areas include Hollywood.

Despite the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, the city is not immune to a significant crime problem.

Hollywood, with its population of 90,322, has a crime rate of 4,894 per 100,000, making it significantly riskier than the national average.

Despite Hollywood’s popularity among tourists, incidents of pickpocketing and theft are quite common.

South Los Angeles

In South Los Angeles, there have been a total of 4,268 crime events per 100,000 residents. The population of this area is approximately 249,670.

This area, formerly known as South Central, is now considered one of the most dangerous parts of Los Angeles.

Drug trafficking and gun violence are significant concerns in the area, often associated with gang activity.

The decrease in crime rates in South Los Angeles has been consistent since the 1990s, coinciding with a significant increase in police presence.

It’s important to be cautious when walking at night, as the level of criminal activity can differ from one neighborhood to another.

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