San Diego, California, is renowned as a favored tourist spot and a significant city in the United States. Nevertheless, akin to any sizable urban environment, it contends with instances of crime and violence.
In this article, we will analyze data from different sources to list the top 5 neighborhoods in San Diego with the highest rates of violent crime per 1,000 residents.
To pinpoint these neighborhoods, we employed data from NeighborhoodScout, CrimeGrade, and AreaVibes. The following are the 5 most perilous neighborhoods in San Diego:
| Neighborhood | Population | Violent crime rate (per 1,000 residents) |
| East Village | 13,053 | 3,678 |
| Horton Plaza | 660 | 2,437 |
| Marina | 4,435 | 2,412 |
| Little Italy | 3,171 | 1,493 |
| Kearny Mesa | 3,664 | 1,411 |
East Village
Situated east of the Gaslamp Quarter in Downtown San Diego, East Village stands out as the largest and most diverse neighborhood in the downtown area.
Boasting attractions like Petco Park, the Central Library, and San Diego City College, it serves as a focal point for arts, culture, and entertainment, hosting numerous galleries, studios, and venues.
However, the neighborhood grapples with significant challenges, including high rates of homelessness, poverty, and drug use, all of which contribute to an elevated crime rate.
East Village holds the dubious distinction of having the highest violent crime rate in San Diego, with 3,678 incidents per 1,000 residents, according to NeighborhoodScout.
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Horton Plaza
Situated in Downtown San Diego, to the west of the Gaslamp Quarter, Horton Plaza is a compact neighborhood primarily comprising Horton Plaza Park and the Horton Plaza Shopping Center—a sizable mall housing numerous shops, restaurants, and a cinema.
A favored spot for both tourists and locals, Horton Plaza draws crowds, especially during holidays and events. Unfortunately, the area also appeals to criminals who target unaware visitors.
Horton Plaza ranks second in San Diego for its high violent crime rate, registering 2,437 incidents per 1,000 residents, as reported by NeighborhoodScout.
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Marina
Located along the waterfront in Downtown San Diego, the Marina neighborhood encompasses the western part of downtown, bordering the San Diego Bay.
It stands out as one of the city’s most affluent and esteemed areas, characterized by numerous luxury condos, hotels, and office spaces.
Despite its upscale reputation, Marina contends with crime concerns, largely attributed to its proximity to the bustling downtown core and the influx of tourists. NeighborhoodScout reports that Marina holds the third-highest violent crime rate in San Diego, with 2,412 incidents per 1,000 residents.
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Little Italy
Situated north of the Gaslamp Quarter in Downtown San Diego, Little Italy is a neighborhood that honors San Diego’s Italian heritage and culture. This vibrant and charming area boasts numerous restaurants, cafes, shops, and festivals, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
Beyond its cultural attractions, Little Italy functions as both a residential and business district, featuring condos, lofts, and offices. Despite its lively atmosphere, the neighborhood faces some crime challenges, predominantly involving theft, vandalism, and assault.
According to NeighborhoodScout, Little Italy ranks fourth in violent crime rates in San Diego, with 1,493 incidents per 1,000 residents.
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Kearny Mesa
Located in Central San Diego, east of Clairemont, Kearny Mesa is primarily an industrial and commercial district characterized by numerous businesses, warehouses, and factories.
This neighborhood is known for its diverse and multicultural population, with a significant presence of Asian and Hispanic residents and businesses. Kearny Mesa boasts convenient accessibility, thanks to its proximity to multiple highways and public transportation options.
Despite its positive aspects, Kearny Mesa faces certain crime challenges, particularly in the areas of robbery, burglary, and vehicle theft. According to CrimeGrade, Kearny Mesa holds the fifth-highest violent crime rate in San Diego, with 1,411 incidents per 1,000 residents.
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Conclusion
San Diego, California, stands as a picturesque and multifaceted city, offering numerous attractions and prospects. Nonetheless, it is not without its share of unsafe neighborhoods characterized by a high incidence of crime and violence.
Drawing from diverse data sources, we’ve pinpointed the top 5 most hazardous neighborhoods in San Diego, determined by the rate of violent crime per 1,000 residents. Whether you call San Diego home, are just visiting, or considering a move, prioritize safety and make the most of your time in the city!
