Dangerous Boston Neighborhoods! Is Boston secure?
31 Jul 17:21
Boston is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States because of its abundance of natural beauty. The city generously provides to practically every individual mind’s desire – sports fans, historical lovers, university students, cuisine champions, and so on. With its plethora of arts and culture, restaurants, outdoor activities, and historical buildings, it is just about the ideal location to live.
However, with a huge population comes a certain amount of crime. Here is a list of risky and safe areas so you may avoid the greatest hassles and never worry, “How safe is Boston?”
Top 10 Most Dangerous Places in Boston
What are the worst areas in Boston, you ask?
1. Roxbury
There are 63,672 people in this neighborhood. West Roxbury’s crime rate is significantly lower than it was in the late 1990s. Nonetheless, the area has a high crime rate, ranking it as one of the most hazardous in Boston. There are various kinds of homicides, just as in the past: stabbings, shootings, murders, and so on. The violence in this area appeared to pause, only to return with a vengeance.
Although police data show that rape, murder, and assault have decreased by 10 -22 percent since 2014, citizens believe that recent instances do not match the figures. Especially after reports of seven men were shot at a barbeque on Zeigler Street in 2017. Although everyone agrees that the cops are responsive, the neighborhood is nonetheless unsafe.
Visitors and female travelers are advised to limit their walks and bike rides to daylight hours only, as nighttime might be dangerous. Within the area, female lone travelers are supposed to be escorted at all times. Petty crimes occur less frequently, yet it is important to exercise caution when parking in new places or using public transportation.
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2. Mattapan
Mattapan had an extraordinarily high reputation for crime before to 2013, when there appeared to be consistency in the decline of crime. A substantial chunk of the area was in disrepair, and inhabitants were also plagued by gang-related activities. The years 2016/2017 came to an uncomfortable finish. There was constantly someone gunned down, someone killed, or some random shooting. This is one of the Boston neighborhoods to avoid.
Mattapan has 39,010 inhabitants who are 137 percent more vulnerable to violent crime than the national average. The cops are as visible as they can be, yet people say they are barely sensed. Panhandlers and pickpockets are few, therefore getting robbed for cash is uncommon.
Walking or biking about the area is only safe during the day, and ladies travelling alone should avoid being observed after nightfall. In this community, residents have a one in thirty risk of becoming a victim of crime.
3. Jamaica Plain
Gang violence is still prevalent in this area. Drive-by shootings, drug-related or petty fights, and a bombardment of unneeded high violence follow. When you move closer to Jackson Square and Egleston, Jamaica Plain becomes more perilous. The police presence is obvious and sufficient for this 45,158-person community.
According to FBI figures, overall crime in Jamaica Plain in 2018 was 1,944 per 100,000 population, with 452 estimated for violent crime and 1,492 projected for property crime. As much as shootings occur, they have become increasingly rare in recent years, although routine thefts occur on a regular basis. There is no denying that this is one of the Boston areas to avoid. As a result, valuables and cash should be hidden and guarded, especially when using public transit.
Walking and riding should only be done during the day. If exploring at night, female solitary travelers should be accompanied. One in every 52 people is a victim of a crime.
4. Hyde Park
This neighborhood is home to 35,116 people and has an average livability score. The crime rate is 30% lower than the national average and 30% lower than the Boston average. Aside from the occasional blatant theft, Hyde work has a fairly low crime rate. Pricey objects, jeweler, and cash must be kept in secure locations of the car, out of sight, or strapped in purses/wallets. Patrolling cops improve security in this community.
While exploring Hyde Park on foot or by bike during the day may seem like a nice option because it is normally calm, it is much quieter at night. And the further north you go from Hyde Park, the more dangerous it becomes. Walking alone might be unsettling, especially for female solo travelers. There are a few motels in this region that come highly recommended for spending the night rather than risking one’s life on a walkthrough.
5. North Dorchester
This neighborhood’s awful reputation for high crime rates and gang involvement remains, making it one of the worst in Boston. Residents urge the need to investigate the incidence of robberies. The scope of criminality was only better understood in 2009 and 2010. According to Boston dot com, about half of all killings in Boston occurred in Dorchester in 2009. Dorchester accounted for 44 percent of all documented murders in Boston in 2010.
Officers patrol at regular intervals to further safeguard this 27,791-person community. Theft should be treated seriously, and possessions and valuables should be protected as effectively as possible. When travelling, it is best to avoid carrying cash and instead rely on credit/debit cards. The public transit here appears to be adequate.
Biking and walking are excellent ways to explore the area, but they should be done before dusk. Women should avoid travelling alone late at night in this neighborhood.
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6. South Dorchester
Despite the increased crime in Boston and in this neighborhood, it appears that more individuals are flocking to South Dorchester. It is home to 66,765 people, or about 15% of Boston’s total population.
According to the Boston Police Department, the majority of crime statistics were favorable. Between 2016 and 2017, the crime rate fell by 10%, with fewer cases of burglary and robbery. In general, around 200 fewer events were recorded in 2017 than in 2016. However, homicides soared, making this area one of Boston’s most hazardous.
Residents emphasize the prevalence of gunshots and other violent acts. It is common for neighbors to be raided for drugs, firearms, and prostitutes. Officers on patrol are visible but unresponsive.
The best time to go for a stroll or ride around the neighborhood is after dusk. After then, it gets risky, especially for girls travelling alone. Taxis and Ubers are preferred for increased security. If not, use care on public transportation and keep an eye out for cash in handbags and wallets.
7. East Boston
This neighborhood has a population of 43,436 individuals, with Hispanics/Latinos making up the majority. Eastie, as the people affectionately refer to it, is largely known for violent crimes. Stabbings, shootings, and murders occur on a regular basis, making this neighborhood one of the most hazardous in Boston. As a result, the number of police officers stationed was raised.
East Boston crime is also characterized by the prevalence of narcotics, drug users, and gang activity, which has been rampant since the 1990s. Boston Red Dragons, Oriental Boy Society, and other gangs have issued gang rules.
It is best to go exploring, walking, or bicycling in the early hours of the day. Most sites become more dangerous at night and are not suited for female travelers travelling alone. Avoid visiting Maverick and Eagle Hill. Is it safe in East Boston? Eastie’s safer areas are closer to Orient Heights or Jeffries Point. There have been no escalations in public transit, and there appears to be less cash theft. Hotels with favorable evaluations are few and located outside of the neighborhood.
8. South Boston
Here is one of Boston’s less desirable neighborhoods. This area, which has a population of 38,206 people, has experienced its ups and downs. South Boston was formerly known as a nasty area. It was so outlandish that it was transformed into films. While violence has decreased dramatically over the years, this area is still plagued by gang activity and open drug consumption. The majority of violent incidents are the result of heroin and non-heroin opiates such as oxycodone addiction.
Is it safe in South Boston? During the day, South Boston is safe, thus strolling and biking are welcomed. Safety is seldom assured late at night, especially for females travelling alone. The neighborhood near Andrew Square is still recognized for being tougher than others.
Although public transportation has been safer in recent years, it is still prudent to keep valuables and cash out of sight.
9. Central Boston
This area has a population of 33,579 people and is located right in the heart of the city. According to FBI statistics, the crime rate is 135 percent higher than the Boston average and 141 percent more than the national average. It appears that violent crimes account for a large portion of the total data, which are 320 percent higher than the national average. However, property crime continues to climb, with 4,610 offences committed per 100,000 population, compared to 1,597 violent crimes.
Residents are encouraged to avoid night walks, particularly for ladies travelling alone, but can do so during the day. Although public transportation is safe, cash and valuables should be kept secure.
10. Charlestown
This neighbourhood has a population of 17,208 people. The bulk of crime in Charlestown, Boston involves gunshots and drug trafficking, particularly in the eastern section. As a result, it is one of Boston’s worst neighbourhoods. Property crime, while lower than in comparable communities, remains high at 1,632 per 100,000 people.
Exploration is more successful during the day, whether on foot or by bike. If you’re a woman, it’s best to travel in groups at night if possible. This neighborhood’s nicest portions are around Main Street and on Monument Square. You have a 1 in 49 risk of becoming a victim of a crime in Charlestown.
Crime Situation in Boston
The violent crime rate in Boston has decreased somewhat since 2005, according to crime figures. From 1,317.68 per 100,000 population in 2005 to 622.45 in 2018. It was a 6.99 percent decrease from 2017, which was a 5.4 percent decrease from 2016. The largest impact has been a decrease in robberies and assaults.
Since 2006, there has been a parallel decrease in property crime. In 2018, the crime rate dropped from 4,462 to 2,016.64 per 100,000 population. This was a 3.48 percent decrease from 2017, and a 2.84 percent decrease from 2016. Gradual percentages decline over the past decade. The greatest noticeable decrease has been in motor vehicle theft.
Despite the fact that crime rates appear to be improving, property crime remains unacceptably high. Consider an annual average of 12,000 thefts and 2,000 burglaries.
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Top 5 Safe Places in Boston
Here are the safest neighborhoods in Boston.
1. North end
With a population of 10,131 inhabitants, this is one among Boston’s oldest residential districts. It is highly inhabited and normally has a large number of tourists. This neighbourhood is frequently referred to as Boston’s Little Italy.
Is Boston’s North End safe? In terms of crime, this neighborhood had the fewest instances documented. Although, in the early 2000s, there were more allegations of sexual assault on females than usual. One of the few unfavorable situations handled in the area.
2. Roslindale
This neighbourhood gets an outstanding livability score. The crime rate is 47% lower than the Boston average and 45% lower than the national average. This neighborhood’s 36,129 people have the lowest number of criminal incidences. For every 100,000 people, there are 345 cases of violent crime and 1,062 cases of property crime. Is Boston a safe city based on these findings?
According to FBI statistics, Roslindale is safer than 78% of Massachusetts communities. In this neighborhood, the chances of becoming a victim of a crime are 1 in 72.
3. Allston-Brighton
It is an artistic area that is home to music venues such as Great Scott. House and automobile break-ins are unusual in this area, despite having a low crime rate for both Boston and the national average. Because of the high concentration of students in this area, property crime tends to remain stable (because of its proximity to colleges).
Is Boston safe with this? According to studies, this area is safe and secure on average.
4. Fenway-Kenmore
This 38,320-person area also boasts outstanding livability rankings and a low crime rate compared to the rest of Boston and Massachusetts. The Red Sox and iconic Fenway Park are two nearby attractions worth visiting.
The most common crimes in the neighborhood are those related with intoxicated drinking and bar hopping. Fenway Park offers a fantastic nightlife, restaurants, and bars. When things become raucous, these establishments might become a haven for criminals. It is advised to avoid walking about late at night. It is also preferable to travel in groups.
5. West Roxbury
This extremely pleasant area has a total population of 32,855. So far, this area has had the best performance in terms of crime and safety. The FBI reported 914 crimes for per 100,000 people in 2018, with 202 being violent crimes and 712 being property crimes. Is West Roxbury safe now? In general, you have little to no probability of becoming a victim of crime in this neighborhood (1 in 110).
Conclusion
According to the Boston Globe, the city’s crime rate climbed in 2019. In the same breath, it praises the outcome as part of a historical character. Despite the uptick, the city has attained the lowest crime rate in four years on average.
This is just to illustrate the effort being made to reduce the city’s crime rate. In short time, Boston will be ranked as the world’s safest city!
