Grand Rapids is a lively city boasting numerous attractions, cultural events, and outdoor activities. Nevertheless, similar to any urban setting, it has neighborhoods that are less secure and more susceptible to crime than others.
As per the most recent FBI data, Grand Rapids recorded a violent crime rate of 1,027 per 100,000 residents in 2020, surpassing the national average of 367.
While the majority of the city is considered safe, there are specific areas you may want to steer clear of or exercise caution when visiting. Here are five such areas:
| Neighborhood | Crime rate (per 100,000) | Median income | Poverty rate | Educational attainment |
| Madison Area | 31,671 | $24,4122 | 46.90% | 67.90% |
| Heartside | 28,371 | $18,3332 | 51.40% | 69.80% |
| Roosevelt Park | 24,331 | $32,5002 | 36.60% | 64.10% |
| Baxter | 22,321 | $29,1672 | 39.50% | 66.90% |
| Black Hills | 20,291 | $28,7502 | 38.70% | 66.70% |
Madison Area
The Madison Area, situated south of downtown, boasts the city’s highest crime rate, tallying 3,167 crimes per 100,000 residents in 2020. Notorious for poverty, drug trade, and gang conflicts, it’s a troubled region.
Residential and commercial structures dot the neighborhood, but numerous are dilapidated or deserted. Additionally, the area suffers from low median income, educational achievement, and employment opportunities.
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Heartside
Situated in downtown’s core, this area boasts numerous cultural and entertainment spots like the Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids Art Museum, and Downtown Market. Unfortunately, it is also a focal point for issues like homelessness, panhandling, and drug abuse.
In 2020, the neighborhood recorded a crime rate of 2,837 per 100,000 residents. Additionally, it exhibits high levels of poverty, a low rate of homeownership, and a modest median income.
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Roosevelt Park
Situated to the southwest of downtown, this neighborhood stands out as one of the city’s most diverse and densely populated areas. It boasts a sizable Hispanic population, alongside African American, Asian, and Native American residents.
In 2020, the neighborhood reported a crime rate of 2,433 per 100,000 residents. Additionally, it faces challenges such as a low median income, limited educational attainment, and a high poverty rate.
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Baxter
This district, situated to the southeast of downtown, is a vibrant and densely populated section of the city. It boasts a significant African American population, alongside residents of Hispanic, Asian, and Native American backgrounds.
In the year 2020, the neighborhood recorded a crime rate of 2,232 incidents per 100,000 residents. Notably, many of these crimes were associated with burglary, robbery, and aggravated assault.
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Black Hills
This community, situated south of the downtown area, primarily consists of African American residents, with a presence of Hispanic and Asian inhabitants.
In 2020, the neighborhood experienced a crime rate of 2,029 incidents per 100,000 residents, with a significant portion of these crimes linked to burglary, robbery, and aggravated assault. Additionally, the community faces challenges such as a low median income, limited educational attainment, and a high poverty rate.
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To Conclude
These five neighborhoods in Grand Rapids are not the only ones plagued by crime, but they rank among the most hazardous and problematic.
You should exercise caution if you must travel or reside in these locations. Some precautions include locking your doors and windows, staying alert, not going for nighttime walks alone, and reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Additionally, you ought to make an effort to assist the neighborhood-based community organizations and projects that are aiming to raise the standard of living and safety in these areas. Although Grand Rapids is a fantastic city with lots to offer, there are certain issues that need to be resolved.
