Bernalillo County, located in New Mexico, has a population of over 680,000, making it the most populous county in the state. It includes Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, along with several smaller towns and villages.
While Bernalillo County offers a range of attractions and amenities, there are also areas within it that face challenges with high crime rates and violence. Based on the latest data from the FBI and NeighborhoodScout, here are the five neighborhoods in Bernalillo County with the highest levels of crime.
South Broadway
South Broadway, located in southeast Albuquerque, is home to approximately 5,000 people. It stands as one of the least affluent areas in the city, with a median household income of just $19,000.
The neighborhood experiences a high crime rate of 137.6 incidents per 1,000 residents, surpassing the national average by over four times. Residents of South Broadway face a 1 in 7 likelihood of falling victim to crime within a year.
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Barelas/South Valley
Barelas and South Valley are neighboring communities in southwest Albuquerque, with a combined population of around 55,000 people. They are primarily Hispanic areas with a deep cultural heritage and history.
However, these neighborhoods also grapple with various social and economic difficulties, including issues like poverty, joblessness, and limited access to education.
The crime rate in Barelas and South Valley is 115.8 per 1,000 residents, which is nearly three times higher than the national average. Residents of Barelas and South Valley face a 1 in 9 chance of experiencing a crime within a year.
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International District
The International District, located in southeast Albuquerque, is home to approximately 40,000 people. It stands out as one of the most culturally diverse areas in the city, boasting a population from various ethnic and racial backgrounds.
This neighborhood experiences a crime rate of 107.4 per 1,000 residents, which is over double the national average. Notably, both violent and property crimes, particularly incidents of rape and arson, occur at a higher frequency in the International District. Residents of this area face a 1 in 9 chance of falling victim to a crime within a year.
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Martineztown/Santa Barbara
Martineztown and Santa Barbara are neighboring communities located in northeast Albuquerque, with a total population of around 10,000 people. These areas boast a blend of both historic and modern buildings and businesses.
However, it is important to note that Martineztown and Santa Barbara experience a higher crime rate compared to the national average, with a rate of 104.3 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is more than double the national average. In Martineztown and Santa Barbara, residents face a 1 in 10 chance of falling victim to a crime within a year.
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Downtown
Downtown Albuquerque serves as the city’s primary business district and is home to approximately 15,000 residents. It functions as the central hub for the city’s economy, culture, and entertainment.
The area experiences a crime rate of 101.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is over double the national average. Residents of Downtown face a 1 in 10 likelihood of falling victim to a crime within a year.
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Final Words
These are the five riskiest neighborhoods in Bernalillo County, New Mexico. Although they may have some positive aspects and potential, they also come with various problems and hazards that require attention. If you reside in or visit these areas, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and take measures to safeguard yourself and your belongings.
