Baltimore, Maryland, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene. However, the city grapples with elevated levels of crime and violence. According to the FBI’s 2019 data, Baltimore ranked third in the nation for violent crime, reporting 2,027.01 incidents per 100,000 residents.
Certain neighborhoods in Baltimore experience a higher susceptibility to crime, underscoring the importance for both residents and visitors to remain vigilant and implement safety measures.
What is the Crime Rate in Baltimore Compared to Other Cities?
Baltimore exhibits a notable disparity in crime rates when compared to other U.S. cities. As per the FBI’s 2019 statistics, Baltimore ranked third nationally for violent crime, reporting 2,027.01 incidents per 100,000 residents.
The city’s violent crime rate surpasses the national average by more than fivefold, while its property crime rate is over twice the national average.
Baltimore’s robbery rate stands out as the highest in the country at 837 incidents per 100,000 people, and its murder rate, with 51 per 100,000 residents, is the second-highest, trailing only St. Louis. According to 2020 FBI data, Baltimore is considered safer than merely 3% of U.S. cities.
| City | Violent crime rate (per 100,000) | Property crime rate (per 100,000) | Robbery rate (per 100,000) | Murder rate (per 100,000) |
| Baltimore | 2,027.01 | 4,495.13 | 8373 | 513 |
| National average | 366.72 | 2,109.92 | 86.23 | 5 |
In the subsequent section, we highlight the five neighborhoods in Baltimore most impacted by crime, drawing on the latest data from the Baltimore Police Department.
Sandtown-Winchester
Sandtown-Winchester, located in West Baltimore, has faced persistent challenges related to poverty, unemployment, and drug addiction. In 2015, it garnered national attention following the death of Freddie Gray, a young Black man, while in police custody after his arrest in this community. This incident sparked widespread protests and riots.
In 2020, Sandtown-Winchester reported the highest number of homicides in Baltimore, with 28 documented cases. The neighborhood also contends with elevated rates of shootings, robberies, and assaults. With an approximate population of 8,500 people, Sandtown-Winchester has a median household income of $24,000.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Harford County, Maryland
Greenmount West
Greenmount West, situated in East Baltimore and a constituent of the Station North Arts and Entertainment District, draws in a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and students who value its creative ambiance and nearness to downtown.
Yet, it grapples with heightened crime and violence, recording 20 homicides in 2020 and earning the designation as the second most perilous neighborhood in Baltimore.
Instances of shootings, robberies, and assaults are notably prevalent in this area. Greenmount West is home to approximately 3,000 residents, with a median household income of $19,000.
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Broadway East
Broadway East, a neighborhood situated in East Baltimore near Johns Hopkins Hospital and the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, grapples with substantial crime and violence issues.
Despite its close proximity to these prominent institutions, the area has not experienced the economic development and investments observed in other parts of the city.
In 2020, Broadway East recorded 18 homicides, earning it the designation as the third most perilous neighborhood in Baltimore. Incidents of shootings, robberies, and assaults are prevalent in this community, which houses around 6,500 residents with a median household income of $21,000.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Cheapest Place to Live in California
Madison-Eastend
Madison-Eastend, situated on the eastern edge of Baltimore near Patterson Park, one of the largest urban parks in the nation, unfortunately lacks a secure and tranquil living atmosphere.
In 2020, the neighborhood witnessed 16 homicides, ranking it as the fourth most perilous area in Baltimore. Incidents such as shootings, robberies, and assaults are prevalent. Madison-Eastend is home to around 4,500 residents, with a median household income of $23,000.
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Pulaski
Pulaski, located in Southeast Baltimore, is recognized for its industrial and commercial endeavors, as well as its close proximity to the Baltimore Harbor.
However, it has gained notoriety due to elevated levels of crime and violence, leading to its colloquial moniker, “Pulaski Highway Murderland.”
In 2020, Pulaski reported 15 homicides, ranking it as the fifth most perilous neighborhood in Baltimore. Incidents such as shootings, robberies, and assaults occur frequently in this area. Pulaski is home to approximately 5,000 residents, with a median household income of $25,000.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Prince George’s County, Maryland
Final Words
Here are the top five most dangerous neighborhoods in Baltimore, Maryland, based on the most recent data and rankings. While these areas may show promise for improvement and have some positive aspects, they also present notable hazards and difficulties for both residents and visitors.
It is recommended to be cautious and, if feasible, steer clear of these neighborhoods, particularly during nighttime.
