Baltimore is a city full of historic neighborhoods, vibrant communities, and cultural depth. But like many large cities, it also struggles with crime in specific areas. Understanding where crime is more concentrated helps residents and visitors stay informed and make safer decisions.
This guide highlights some of the Baltimore neighborhoods with the highest crime rates, based on data from law enforcement, FBI crime statistics, and local crime analysis platforms.
Related: Baltimore Crime Rate Statistics
How We Identified High-Crime Areas
The following neighborhoods were selected based on violent and property crime data from the Baltimore Police Department, FBI Crime Data Explorer, AreaVibes, and NeighborhoodScout. Key factors include:
- Reported incidents of assault, robbery, burglary, and theft
- Historical crime trends and current data
- Community safety grades and public perception
Not every block in these neighborhoods is dangerous, and many are seeing improvement through local efforts. But these areas remain among the most affected by crime.
Neighborhoods in Baltimore with the Highest Crime Rates
Cherry Hill
Located in South Baltimore, Cherry Hill has long faced challenges with poverty, gang violence, and under-resourced infrastructure. It continues to report high rates of violent crime, particularly assaults and shootings. Community-led initiatives are active, but safety concerns remain prevalent.
Sandtown-Winchester
Once the focus of national attention, Sandtown-Winchester still struggles with high rates of burglary, drug activity, and violent incidents. While redevelopment efforts are underway, the area consistently ranks among the most dangerous in Baltimore.
Greenmount East
Greenmount East includes several smaller neighborhoods near Johns Hopkins Hospital. This area sees regular reports of robbery, gun-related crimes, and property damage. Lighting and vacant properties contribute to its risk profile.
Broadway East
Broadway East is an East Baltimore neighborhood with historically high levels of crime. Vacant housing and low homeownership rates are common, and violent crime remains a persistent concern. The neighborhood has been the focus of public safety grants and housing initiatives.
You Might Also Like: The Safest Areas in Baltimore
Upton/Druid Heights
This centrally located area is known for a high concentration of crime reports, particularly violent crime. While some community programs and housing investments are making an impact, the area still sees frequent incidents.
Middle East
Adjacent to Greenmount and Johns Hopkins, Middle East continues to report elevated levels of drug-related offenses, theft, and property crime. Despite hospital expansion nearby, safety issues persist, especially after dark.
Common Crimes in These Areas
These neighborhoods tend to report higher numbers of:
- Assault and armed robbery
- Gun-related violence
- Vehicle theft and burglary
- Drug distribution or possession charges
- Property damage and break-ins
Not Every Block Is the Same
It’s important to remember that:
- Crime often clusters in specific streets or intersections
- Some blocks may be actively improving thanks to community policing or new development
- Many residents in these areas are actively working to make them safer
Baltimore’s story is one of both challenge and progress, and that’s true even in areas with a tough reputation.
How to Stay Safe in Higher-Crime Neighborhoods
Whether you live nearby or visit these areas regularly, here are practical steps to improve personal and property safety:
- Park in well-lit areas and never leave valuables visible in your vehicle
- Use outdoor security cameras and motion detectors
- Connect with neighbors via Nextdoor or a neighborhood text group
- Report issues to the Baltimore 311 Response Center
- Consider joining or starting a Neighborhood Watch
Smart habits and smart technology work together to reduce risk.
For You: Neighborhood Watch in Baltimore: How to Get Involved
How Guardian Protection Can Help
If you live in or near one of these high-crime neighborhoods, home security can make a meaningful difference. Guardian Protection systems are built to detect, deter, and respond to break-ins and suspicious activity.
Our smart home security systems come equipped with:
- Indoor and outdoor security cameras
- Smart door locks and door/window sensors
- Smart control panel with real-time app management
- 24/7 professional monitoring
Whether you live in Park Heights or Upton, our solutions are designed with Baltimore families in mind.
Explore Guardian’s services in your area: Home Security in Baltimore
Building Peace of Mind at Home
Choosing to invest in a safer home is one of the best decisions you can make. Guardian Protection offers home security solutions that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, whether you’re securing your home, family, or rental property.Ready to strengthen your peace of mind?
Looking to reinforce your sense of safety? Get a free quote or call 800.857.5028 to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dangerous neighborhood in Baltimore?
Cherry Hill and Sandtown-Winchester consistently rank among the highest in reported violent crime.
Are all parts of these neighborhoods dangerous?
No. Crime often clusters in specific blocks or corners, and many residents are working to improve safety in their areas.
Is crime getting better in Baltimore?
Some neighborhoods are seeing improvements, especially where community policing and redevelopment efforts are active. Overall, crime rates have been slowly trending downward in some categories.
Where can I check current crime reports?
The Baltimore Police Department’s Open Data Portal and platforms like NeighborhoodScout provide up-to-date information.
Can security cameras really help reduce crime?
Yes. Visible security systems, especially with motion-activated alerts, can deter theft and help identify suspects after incidents.