Chesapeake County, situated in Virginia, is a sizable and varied region boasting a population exceeding 240,000 residents. The area is home to various attractions, including the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, the Chesapeake Arboretum, and the Chesapeake Planetarium.
Despite these attractions, not all parts of Chesapeake County guarantee safety and tranquility. Certain neighborhoods within the county grapple with elevated levels of crime and violence, rendering them precarious for both residents and visitors.
This article will unveil the five most perilous neighborhoods in Chesapeake County, drawing upon the latest data from the local law enforcement agency and other reliable sources.
| Neighborhood | Population | Median Home Value | Median Income | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate |
| South Norfolk | 22,479 | $179,964 | $52,299 | 855 | 4,145 |
| Greenbrier West | 19,480 | $255,523 | $79,284 | 469 | 3,222 |
| Deep Creek North | 17,897 | $203,267 | $67,890 | 933 | 3,413 |
| Deep Creek West-Dismal Swamp | 7,327 | $267,475 | $79,245 | 387 | 755 |
| Indian River | 23,332 | $224,900 | $71,250 | 739 | 3,413 |
South Norfolk
According to the latest census data, South Norfolk is the least favorable neighborhood in Chesapeake County. With a population of 22,479, it holds the lowest median home value in the county at $179,964. Additionally, South Norfolk has the lowest median income, with residents earning $52,299 per year.
In terms of crime rates, South Norfolk stands out with the highest number of violent crimes per 100,000 people, reaching 855, which is 113% higher than the Chesapeake County average. Property crimes are also notably elevated, with 4,145 incidents per 100,000 people.
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Greenbrier West
Greenbrier West, with a population of 19,480, ranks as the second most dangerous neighborhood in Chesapeake County. It holds the sixth lowest median home value in the county at $255,523 and the fifth lowest median income at $79,284.
The neighborhood’s violent crime rate stands at 469 per 100,000 people, which is 7% higher than the Chesapeake County average. Additionally, property crimes are notably elevated, reaching 3,222 per 100,000 people.
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Deep Creek North
Deep Creek North ranks as the third most perilous neighborhood in Chesapeake County, housing a population of 17,897. With a median home value of $203,267, it holds the third-lowest position in the county, accompanied by a median income of $67,890, which also ranks third.
The neighborhood exhibits a high level of violent crime, with a rate of 933 incidents per 100,000 people— the highest in the county and 95% above the Chesapeake County average. Property crimes are also prevalent, reaching 3,413 per 100,000 people.
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Deep Creek West-Dismal Swamp
Deep Creek West-Dismal Swamp, with a population of 7,327, stands as the fourth most perilous neighborhood in Chesapeake County. It boasts a median home value of $267,475, ranking seventh lowest in the county, and a median income of $79,245, placing it as the fourth lowest.
In terms of crime, Deep Creek West-Dismal Swamp exhibits a violent crime rate of 387 per 100,000 people, which is 12% below the Chesapeake County average. Remarkably, property crimes are notably scarce, registering at 755 per 100,000 people—the lowest in the county.
Despite its safety concerns, Deep Creek West-Dismal Swamp is enveloped by natural splendor, surrounded by attractions such as the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the Northwest River Park.
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Indian River
Indian River ranks as the fifth most perilous neighborhood in Chesapeake County, boasting a population of 23,332 residents. With a median home value of $224,900, it holds the fifth-lowest position in the county, while its median income of $71,250 stands as the sixth lowest.
The neighborhood exhibits a violent crime rate of 739 per 100,000 people, surpassing the Chesapeake County average by 77%. Additionally, property crimes are notably high, reaching 3,413 per 100,000 people. Situated along the Elizabeth River, Indian River encompasses a blend of residential and commercial areas.
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Final Words
This assessment of the most hazardous neighborhoods in Chesapeake County reveals a troubling scenario in certain areas grappling with high crime rates, particularly violent offenses.
Despite pockets of prosperity and natural beauty, it is essential for residents and potential visitors to be mindful of the heightened risks in South Norfolk, Greenbrier West, Deep Creek North, Deep Creek West-Dismal Swamp, and Indian River.
Moreover, it is vital to acknowledge the intricacies of attributing danger solely to specific neighborhoods. Socioeconomic factors, historical inequities, and systemic issues significantly contribute to crime rates.
Through fostering cooperation, investing in vulnerable communities, and recognizing the interconnectedness of various factors, Chesapeake County can strive towards a safer and more equitable future for all its residents.
