Mecklenburg County, NC, houses Charlotte, the state’s largest city and a significant center for finance, culture, and entertainment. Nevertheless, there are notable disparities in safety and prosperity across different areas of the county.
Crime statistics and maps reveal that certain neighborhoods in Mecklenburg County experience significantly higher rates of violent and property crimes than others, posing greater risks for both residents and visitors.
How Does Mecklenburg County’s Crime Rate Compare to Other Counties in North Carolina
Mecklenburg County exhibits a higher crime rate compared to most other North Carolina counties, encompassing both violent and property crimes. The crime rate in Mecklenburg County stands at 83.51 incidents per 1,000 residents, whereas the statewide average is 36.6 per 1,000 residents.
Ranked in the 3rd percentile for safety, Mecklenburg County is considered less safe than 97% of counties, with 3% being more perilous. The safest neighborhoods are situated in the northwest part of the county, while the eastern and southwestern parts house the most dangerous ones.
This article delves into the five riskiest neighborhoods in Mecklenburg County, gauged by the crime rate per 1,000 residents and crime grades from CrimeGrade.org. Additionally, we’ll offer tips on staying safe and minimizing the risk of becoming a crime victim in these areas.
| Neighborhood | Crime Rate (per 1,000) |
| Eastland-Wilora Lake | 97.7 |
| Hidden Valley | 93 |
| West Blvd | 88.4 |
| Lakewood | 86.9 |
| Druid Hills North | 84.8 |
Eastland-Wilora Lake
Eastland-Wilora Lake, located in east Charlotte and surrounded by Eastway Drive, Central Avenue, Albemarle Road, and Sharon Amity Road, has a population of approximately 18,000 people with a median household income of $36,000.
The neighborhood exhibits a crime rate of 97.7 per 1,000 residents, which is more than double the county average of 40.2. With a crime grade of F, it is deemed significantly more perilous than 97% of U.S. neighborhoods. Common crimes in this area include theft, burglary, and assault.
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Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley, situated in northern Charlotte and bordered by Sugar Creek Road, North Tryon Street, and Interstate 85, is home to approximately 13,000 residents with a median household income of $33,000.
However, the neighborhood faces challenges in terms of safety, with a crime rate of 92.9 per 1,000 residents—more than double the county average. The crime grade for Hidden Valley is an F, indicating that it is significantly more hazardous than 96% of neighborhoods across the United States.
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West Blvd
West Blvd is situated in the southwest of Charlotte, spanning along West Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway. With approximately 15,000 residents, the neighborhood boasts a median household income of $29,000.
However, it’s crucial to note that the crime rate here is notably high, standing at 88.4 incidents per 1,000 residents—more than twice the county average. Given its crime grade of F, West Blvd is considerably riskier than 95% of neighborhoods across the United States.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Cheapest Place to Live in Pennsylvania
Lakewood
Lakewood, located in western Charlotte near the Catawba River and Interstate 85, is home to approximately 9,000 residents with a median household income of $24,000.
However, the neighborhood faces significant challenges in terms of safety, with a crime rate of 86.9 incidents per 1,000 residents—more than double the county average. The crime grade for Lakewood is an F, signifying that it is considerably more perilous than 94% of neighborhoods across the United States.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Cheapest Place to Live in California
Druid Hills North
Druid Hills North, situated in the northern part of Charlotte near North Graham Street and Interstate 77, is home to approximately 8,000 residents with a median household income of $28,000.
The neighborhood has a crime rate of 84.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, which exceeds the county average by more than double. With a crime grade of F, it is classified as significantly more hazardous than 93% of neighborhoods across the United States.
Read More: This City Has Been Named the Healthiest Place to Live in Missouri
Conclusion
Mecklenburg County, NC, is characterized by its diversity and vibrancy. However, like any area, there are neighborhoods that experience higher levels of crime and violence.
Being aware of the top five most hazardous neighborhoods in the county empowers you to make informed choices regarding your residence, workplace, or places to visit.
It enables you to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Keep in mind that prioritizing safety is essential, and it’s better to prevent harm than to deal with its consequences.
