Miami, often praised for its diverse cultures and vibrant lifestyle, is not without its shadows. Despite being a tropical paradise, some neighborhoods in the city face higher crime rates, bringing to light concerns about safety and security. Here, we delve into the data and analysis to uncover the 10 riskiest neighborhoods in Miami as of 2024.

1. Overtown: A Historic Neighborhood Marred by Crime Overtown, one of Miami’s oldest African-American neighborhoods, struggles with a crime rate 145% higher than the national average. While rich in history, the area faces challenges such as high rates of violent crime and gun violence, discouraging late-night strolls. In 2022, 13,053 crimes were reported in a community of 9,640 residents, revealing a stark disparity between income and living costs.

2. Opa-Locka: Suburban Living with Crime Concerns With a blend of urban and suburban living, Opa-Locka accommodates a population of 16,245. Despite family-friendly vibes, the neighborhood reported 8,096 crimes in 2022, including 1,957 violent crimes. While parks and liberal citizens offer positives, crime remains a significant concern for residents.

3. Downtown: Urban Appeal Marred by High Crime Rates Downtown Miami, often attractive to visitors with its vibrant nightlife, has a crime rate 308% higher than the national average. In 2022, 7,758 crimes were reported in a population of 30,065. The disparity between income and housing costs makes it challenging for many to afford living in this otherwise appealing urban setting.

4. Wynwood: Unreported Crimes Cast Shadows Wynwood faces a challenge with unreported crimes, suggesting a potentially worse situation than official statistics indicate. With a crime rate 285% higher than the national average, frequent car break-ins and robberies make casual strolls less advisable. In 2022, 7,268 crimes were reported in a population of 17,923.

5. Model City: High Risk and Low Income Also known as Liberty City, Model City’s high crime rates, particularly against women, are accompanied by a median household income of $9,601. In 2020, 6,491 crimes were reported in a population of 25,023, reflecting a significant income-housing cost gap.

6. Upper Eastside: Commendable Police Response Amid High Crime With crime rates 230% higher than the national average, Upper Eastside remains relatively unsafe. In 2022, 6,245 crimes were reported in a population of 7,725. While police response is commendable, the income-housing cost gap poses challenges for residents.

7. North Miami: Perception of Safety in the South End North Miami, with a crime rate of 34.06 per 1,000 residents, has a perceived safer south end. In 2022, 3,944 crimes were reported in a population of 62,158, comprising 762 violent crimes and 1,382 property crimes.

8. Bayside Harbor: Tourist Destination with Caution Advised Bayside Harbor, known for its scenic views and boat rentals, is a tourist hotspot. However, caution is advised due to pickpockets. In 2022, 4,878 crimes were reported in a population of 21,854, with 667 being violent crimes.

9. Miami Gardens: Challenges Despite Perceived Safety With a crime rate of 29.64 per 1,000 residents, Miami Gardens has a perceived safer northwest section. In 2022, 3,557 crimes were reported in a population of 112,514, including 782 violent crimes and 2,775 property crimes.

10. Little Haiti: Rich Culture Amidst Safety Concerns Known for its rich culture and cuisine, Little Haiti grapples with a crime rate 132% higher than the national average. In 2022, 4,500 crimes were reported in a population of 33,229, comprising 1,056 violent crimes and 3,444 property crimes.