Fort Collins, situated in northern Colorado, is renowned for its outdoor attractions, vibrant arts community, and thriving high-tech sector. However, like any urban area, it harbors neighborhoods with varying crime levels.
This article utilizes data from diverse sources to pinpoint the top five high-crime neighborhoods in Fort Collins, focusing on both violent and property crime rates.
To assess and rank these neighborhoods, we analyze crime data from NeighborhoodScout, which supplies crime rates per 1,000 residents for each locality in Fort Collins.
Based on HomeSnacks data, the following five neighborhoods emerge as the most dangerous in Fort Collins:
| Neighborhood | Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Crimes Reported (2023) |
| North College | 69 | 238 (36 violent, 202 property) |
| Old Town West | 60 | 238 (23 violent, 215 property) |
| Prospect/Shields | 56 | 334 (33 violent, 301 property) |
| University Park | 54 | 272 (28 violent, 244 property) |
| Old Town North | 54 | 108 (11 violent, 97 property) |
North College
North College is situated in the northern part of Fort Collins, close to the Cache la Poudre River. With approximately 3,500 residents, the neighborhood boasts a median household income of $37,000.
NeighborhoodScout reports a crime rate of 68.51 per 1,000 residents in North College, marking an 86% increase compared to the Fort Collins average and a staggering 195% surge compared to the national average.
According to HomeSnacks, in 2023, North College experienced 238 reported crimes, including 36 classified as violent and 202 categorized as property crimes.
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Old Town West
Old Town West is situated in the western part of Fort Collins, close to the Colorado State University campus, with a resident population of approximately 4,000 and a median household income of $55,000.
As reported by NeighborhoodScout, Old Town West exhibits a crime rate of 59.56 per 1,000 residents. This figure is 62% higher than the Fort Collins average and 156% higher than the national average.
According to HomeSnacks’ data for 2023, Old Town West recorded a total of 238 reported crimes, including 23 categorized as violent crimes and 215 as property crimes.
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Prospect/Shields
Prospect/Shields, situated in the southern part of Fort Collins near the Harmony Road corridor, is home to approximately 6,000 residents with a median household income of $49,000.
Based on information from NeighborhoodScout, Prospect/Shields exhibits a crime rate of 55.64 per 1,000 residents. This rate is 51% higher than the Fort Collins average and 139% higher than the national average.
As reported by HomeSnacks for the year 2023, Prospect/Shields experienced a total of 334 reported crimes, consisting of 33 violent crimes and 301 property crimes.
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University Park
University Park, situated in the central area of Fort Collins and close to the Colorado State University campus, is home to approximately 5,000 residents with a median household income of $38,000.
As per NeighborhoodScout, University Park exhibits a crime rate of 54.29 per 1,000 residents, marking a 48% increase compared to the Fort Collins average and a 134% surge compared to the national average.
Data from HomeSnacks for the year 2023 indicates that University Park had a total of 272 reported crimes, comprising 28 violent crimes and 244 property crimes.
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Old Town North
Old Town North is a residential area situated in the northern part of Fort Collins, close to the Cache la Poudre River. With approximately 2,000 residents, the neighborhood boasts a median household income of $65,000.
As reported by NeighborhoodScout, Old Town North exhibits a crime rate of 53.76 per 1,000 residents, surpassing the Fort Collins average by 47% and the national average by 131%.
According to HomeSnacks’ data for the year 2023, Old Town North experienced a total of 108 reported crimes, consisting of 11 violent crimes and 97 property crimes.
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Conclusion
These are the five neighborhoods in Fort Collins with the highest reported crime rates, as per the available data. It’s crucial to bear in mind that crime statistics may fluctuate annually and vary from one block to another. Some neighborhoods may exhibit crime rates above or below the local average.
Therefore, it is recommended to conduct your own research and exercise caution when visiting or residing in any neighborhood.
Fort Collins is a dynamic and diverse city, offering numerous attractions and opportunities for both residents and visitors. However, like any city, it comes with its share of challenges and risks that should be acknowledged.
Remaining informed and vigilant allows you to fully enjoy the city’s offerings while prioritizing your safety and well-being.