Life in Washington DC doesn’t come without its dangers; there are several risks associated with living in Washington DC. For starters, there are some pretty dangerous areas in DC. In fact, according to NeigbhorhoodScout.com, Washington DC has one of the highest crime rates in America with a crime rate of 60 per 1,000 residents. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime is one in 17. But given that Washington DC is one of the most expensive cities to live in and is home to many of the top politicians and elite, it’s clear that there are safe places and bad neighborhoods in DC. And the question remains, “Where are the most dangerous neighborhoods in DC?” Well, we dove into some data to find the worst neighborhoods in Washington DC.

1. Washington Highlands/Bellevue
Washington Highlands, Washington, DC 20032, USA
Wikipedia/Aude
Washington Highlands/Bellevue ranks as one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in DC. The Atlantic St SE/4th St SE area was ranked as number 22 on the "Top 25 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods" list by NeighborhoodScout.com.
2. NoMA
NoMa, Washington, DC, USA
Flickr/Elvert Barnes
The NoMA area, also known as North of Massachusetts, in the northeast part of DC, is notoriously known as one of the more dangerous areas in DC. Chart-It states that there are 187 average violent crime incidents every year in the area. Despite its ranking, NoMa is still worth a visit, and that’s because it hosts an annual Oktoberfest, which is touted as one of the best festivals in Washington DC.

Take a walking tour through NoMA:

3. Columbia Heights /Mount Pleasant and Park View
Columbia Heights, Washington, DC, USA
Mount Pleasant, Washington, DC, USA
Park View, Washington, DC, USA
Flickr/Daniel Lobo
Over the course of one year, the Washington Post reported that the Columbia Heights, Mount Pleasant, and Park View neighborhood cluster had the most violent crimes, with 406 cases, and the highest number of robberies, with 268. Just because the area is among the most dangerous parts of DC, don’t discount it altogether. It is home to one of the most enchanting parks in Washington DC. Plus, Columbia Heights and Mount Pleasant are some of the most historic neighborhoods in Washington DC.

Get a closer look at the Park View area:

4. Deanwood Metro Station
Deanwood, Washington, DC 20019, USA
Wikimedia/Ben Schumin
Deanwood Metro Station regularly ranks on the list of most dangerous metro stations in the area. By July 2016, there had already been three people killed at the station.
5. Brentwood
Brentwood, Washington, DC, USA
Wikimedia Commons/Ben Schumin
Also on the northeast side of DC, Brentwood is known for its gritty violence. Shootings in broad daylight are not out of the norm here. According to AreaVibes.com, the overall crime rate in Brentwood is 179% higher than the national average.
6. Ivy City, Trinidad, Carver Langston
Ivy City, Washington, DC, USA
Trinidad, Washington, DC 20002, USA
Carver / Langston, Washington, DC 20002, USA
Wikimedia Commons/ Bill McChesney
The neighborhood cluster 23, which includes Ivy City, Trinidad, Carver, and Langston is also in Southeast DC and while gentrification is occurring in some parts of the cluster, violence is still high. There are 23 violent crimes per 1,000 residents according to Neighborhood Info, which is well above the city’s average of 10.
7. Historic Anacostia
Anacostia, Washington, DC 20020, USA
Courtesy of Wikipedia/Aude
Washington DC politicians have been trying to clean up historic Anacostia for years and they are making great strides, but crime is still heavy in the area. Anacostia is a poor area and according to AreaVibes, the overall crime rate there is 223% higher than the national average. It does boast one huge perk, though. It’s home to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, one of the most scenic hikes in Washington DC.

Learn about the history of Anacostia:

So, did you know about these dangerous areas in DC? Know of a spot that should’ve been included? What do you think are the most dangerous neighborhoods in DC? Tell us in the comments!

If you want to find the safer, nicer spots in Washington DC, book a trip and visit the seven most beautiful neighborhoods in Washington DC!

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Dangerous Areas In DC

Daniella DiRienzo | May 24, 2022

What's the most beautiful town near Washington DC?

The most beautiful town near Washington DC is Old Town Alexandria.

Just like there are dangerous areas in DC, there are lots of lovely neighborhoods and towns in and near DC, one of which is Old Town Alexandria. Located in Virginia about 20 minutes from DC, it’s got a little bit of everything: waterfront vistas, cobblestone streets lined with historic homes, and a trolley that makes it easy to take in the area’s best sites. In addition to stunning scenery, Old Town Alexandria boasts great eateries, quirky shops, an art museum, and more.

What is the most unique neighborhood in Washington DC?

The most unique neighborhood in Washington DC is Chinatown.

As far as unique neighborhoods in Washington DC go, you can’t beat Chinatown. The small historic neighborhood is located in DC’s downtown historic district and bounded by Massachusetts Avenue NW, 5th Street NW, G Street NW, and K Street NW. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s “one of the oldest mixed-use areas in the city,” according to the National Park Service. Today, it features a variety of cultural attractions, including deliciously authentic cuisine.

What are the best restaurants to take visitors to in Washington DC?

The best restaurants to take visitors to in Washington DC include:

  • The Pig. As you can guess, pork is the main attraction at this restaurant and it has amazing sausages, bacon, and smoked barbecue, all served among country-style decorations.
  • Georgia Brown's. You can get some wonderful soul food here while listening to live jazz. There's a brunch and an all-you-can-eat buffet as well as standby dishes like fried chicken, greens, mashed potatoes, and more.
  • Ted's Bulletin. This is the place to go for comforting and delicious American standards like burgers, steak, and salads and the restaurant even makes its own pop tarts.
  • Filomena Ristorante. If you're looking for delicious and authentic Italian fare that includes freshly made pasta, this is the place to go. It's been a DC staple since the 1980s.

Learn more about the best restaurants to take visitors to in Washington DC.

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