Gainesville, Florida, is a city with a population of approximately 133,000 people and is home to the University of Florida. It is renowned for its diverse culture, natural beauty, and lively nightlife.
However, like any urban area, it faces its fair share of crime and violence. Certain neighborhoods in Gainesville are more prone to criminal activities, and both residents and visitors should be mindful of the risks and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
According to NeighborhoodScout, a website that provides crime statistics and data for cities across the United States, Gainesville has a crime rate of 44 incidents per 1,000 residents. This rate exceeds the national average of 22 incidents per 1,000 residents.
On NeighborhoodScout’s crime index, which ranks cities based on safety, Gainesville is positioned at 9 out of 100. This indicates that Gainesville is safer than only 9% of cities in the United States.
5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Gainesville, Florida
Based on data from NeighborhoodScout and other sources, here are the five most dangerous neighborhoods in Gainesville:
Duval:
This residential area is situated in the northeastern section of the city, in close proximity to the airport and the industrial zone. It is home to approximately 2,600 residents and has a median household income of $21,000.
However, the crime rate in Duval is significantly higher compared to the city’s average, with 112 incidents per 1,000 residents.
The neighborhood experiences a high occurrence of violent crimes, including robbery, assault, rape, and murder. Additionally, Duval also has a considerable rate of property crimes, such as burglary, theft, and arson.
Also Read:
Lincoln Estates:
This community can be found in the southeastern section of the city, close to the Hawthorne Road corridor. It is home to approximately 3,300 residents with a median household income of $24,000.
The crime rate in Lincoln Estates is 106 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is more than twice the citywide average. The neighborhood experiences a significant number of violent crimes, particularly assault and robbery.
Additionally, Lincoln Estates has a notable occurrence of property crimes, particularly theft, and burglary.
Also Read:
Pleasant Street:
This residential area is situated in the northwestern region of the city, close to downtown and the university campus. It is home to approximately 2,100 residents with a median household income of $26,000. The crime rate in Pleasant Street stands at 87 incidents per 1,000 residents, nearly double the city’s average.
The neighborhood experiences a significant number of violent crimes, particularly robberies and assaults. Additionally, Pleasant Street has a notable occurrence of property crimes, especially thefts, and burglaries.
Also Read:
Sugarfoot:
This residential area is situated in the southwestern region of the city, close to Archer Road and Tower Road. It is home to approximately 4,400 individuals with a median household income of $37,000.
The crime rate in Sugarfoot stands at 76 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is roughly 70% higher than the city-wide average. The neighborhood experiences a significant number of violent crimes, particularly assault and rape.
Additionally, Sugarfoot has a notable incidence of property crimes, notably theft, and burglary.
Fifth Avenue:
This neighborhood is situated in the northern-central area of the city, close to Main Street and University Avenue. It has a population of approximately 2,900 individuals and a median household income of $28,000.
The crime rate in Fifth Avenue stands at 72 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is roughly 60% higher than the city average. The neighborhood exhibits a high prevalence of violent crimes, particularly robbery and assault. Additionally, Fifth Avenue experiences a notable frequency of property crimes, including theft and burglary.
Based on the available data, these are the five most dangerous neighborhoods in Gainesville. Nevertheless, it is important to note that crime can occur anywhere and at any time, necessitating constant vigilance and caution regardless of one’s location. To ensure safety in Gainesville, here are some helpful tips:
- Please refrain from walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.
- Ensure that your doors and windows are locked and safeguard your valuable possessions.
- If you notice any suspicious activity or individuals, promptly report it to the police.
- Stay vigilant of your surroundings and avoid distractions like using headphones or cell phones.
- Carry pepper spray or a whistle for self-defense purposes.
- In the unfortunate event of becoming a victim of a crime, dial 911 and seek necessary medical assistance.
Gainesville is an enchanting and diverse city offering numerous attractions and opportunities. However, it is important to acknowledge the challenges and potential hazards it presents.
By staying informed and prepared, you can enjoy your time in Gainesville while minimizing risks. Have a safe and enjoyable experience in Gainesville!
