Durham is a city in North Carolina with lots to offer in terms of attractions, culture, and diversity. However, there’s a downside – it’s considered one of the riskier cities in both the state and the country.
In 2020, the FBI reported that Durham’s violent crime rate was 769.6 per 100,000 people, surpassing the national average of 366.7. Certain neighborhoods in Durham are more susceptible to crime, and it’s important for both residents and visitors to be aware of the potential risks and challenges.
This article will delve into the five neighborhoods in Durham County with the highest crime rates. We’ll consider the types of offenses, crime rates, and how safe residents feel in these areas.
East Durham
Situated in the eastern section of Durham, East Durham is surrounded by Alston Avenue, Holloway Street, Miami Boulevard, and Interstate 85. This community is home to around 4,000 residents with a median household income of $23,602.
Being one of the oldest and most varied neighborhoods in Durham, East Durham unfortunately faces challenges with crime. It experiences a significant amount of violent incidents, including shootings, robberies, and assaults.
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Braggtown
This area in Durham is in the northern part and is bordered by Roxboro Road, Latta Road, Interstate 85, and Red Mill Road. About 10,000 people live here, and the average household income is $30,008. Unfortunately, it has a high crime rate, particularly for burglaries and thefts.
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Downtown Durham
Downtown Durham is the main business area of the city, with lots of cool places to visit like restaurants and nightlife spots. But, it does have a problem with a lot of crime, especially around the Durham Station Transportation Center and the Durham County Detention Facility.
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Walltown
This neighborhood, named after George Wall, who bought land there after the Civil War, is in the northwestern part of Durham. It’s a historic area with around 1.5 million people, and the average household income is $27,722.
Unfortunately, it’s one of the poorest and most dangerous neighborhoods in Durham County. The community faces challenges like drug abuse, gang violence, and a lack of education.
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Southwest Central Durham
Southwest Central Durham includes the areas south of the Durham Freeway and west of Fayetteville Street. It’s one of the oldest and most diverse neighborhoods in the city but unfortunately faces high crime rates, with frequent reports of homicides, rapes, and arson.
The population is around 5.5 million people, and the median household income is $25,537. Despite being one of the oldest and most diverse neighborhoods in Durham County, it struggles with a significant amount of crime, including frequent incidents of homicides, rapes, and arson.
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How Does Durham Compare to Other Cities in North Carolina?
- Durham is growing quickly in North Carolina and the United States, having around 287,794 people in 2023. It’s diverse and well-educated, with many residents having a college degree. Durham is in the Research Triangle region with Raleigh and Chapel Hill, known for tech, research, and culture. Together, they make two metro areas: Durham-Chapel Hill and Raleigh-Cary.
- Durham is more affordable than big cities like Charlotte and Raleigh but pricier than smaller ones like Greensboro and Winston-Salem. The median home price is $375,000, and the median rent is $1,250.
- The city has a lively food scene with various cuisines. Popular dishes include barbecue, soul food, Southern comfort food, and international fare. Some top places to eat are Dame’s Chicken & Waffles, Foster’s Market & Cafe, The Local Beer Project, and The Southern Table.
Final Words
These communities are chosen based on the types of crimes committed there, the crime rates, and the residents’ feelings of safety.
Though crimes can occur anywhere, there may be safer areas and less dangerous areas in some neighborhoods. As a result, whether traveling through or residing in these places, it’s critical to always be aware of your surroundings and take measures.
