Most Dangerous Areas In and Around Dallas

According to data from NeighborhoodScout, Dallas has a total crime index rating of three out of 100, meaning the vast majority of U.S. cities report lower overall crime levels. While that statistic provides useful context, it does not tell the full story. Crime in Dallas varies significantly by location, with some neighborhoods experiencing far higher rates than others.

Using publicly available crime data and community safety discussions, this guide examines the most dangerous areas in and around Dallas. The focus is primarily on neighborhoods within the city, with limited inclusion of nearby communities that consistently report elevated levels of violent and property crime.

Areas in and Around Dallas With the Highest Crime Rates

The third largest city in Texas—after Houston and San Antonio—Dallas stands out for its economic power, cultural vibrancy, and central location in North Texas. Blending modern skyscrapers with a cowboy heritage, Dallas is also known for the State Fair of Texas, Reunion Tower, and the JFK Memorial. However, like most large cities, there is also a criminal element that can make home security systems in Dallas a valuable asset. Based on the latest crime data from AreaVibes, the following Dallas neighborhoods have the highest reported crime rates.

Government District

The Government District leads the list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Dallas, according to AreaVibes. With a quoted population of 1,020, the neighborhood’s violent crime rate is 4,012 per 100,000 people. This makes the Government District’s rate 510% higher than Dallas in general and 511% higher than the nation’s as a whole. The Government District in Dallas, Texas, which houses key government buildings like City Hall, courthouses, and federal offices, experiences elevated crime due to a mix of socioeconomic and urban factors. High vacancy rates, inadequate lighting, and reduced commercial activity create opportunities for property crimes, which constitute 79% of incidents. Homelessness also plays a major role. 

Farmers Market District

The Farmers Market District is home to some 2,272 residents. The reported violent crime rate in the area is 3,116 per 100k people. This gives it 373% more crime than Dallas in general and 482% more than the national average. Located in the southeastern downtown area of the city, the neighborhood centers around the Dallas Farmers Market and includes nearby residential and commercial areas. The area experiences elevated crime primarily due to its proximity to large homeless shelters and transient populations, which contribute to issues like property theft and vehicle break-ins. Local stakeholders, pushing for more law enforcement patrols, say panhandling and drug activity are also concerns. 

South Boulevard – Park Row

South Boulevard – Park Row is among the most highly populated neighborhoods in Dallas. Blatant open-air drug sales and survival sex work dominate areas like the 1800 block of Park Row Avenue, day and night. Gang-related murders, shootings, and assaults are common, fueled by poverty in this neighborhood.  South Boulevard-Park Row is home to an estimated 26,359 people and has a violent crime rate of 2,459 incidents per 100,000 residents. This is 274% higher than Dallas as a whole, as well as 280% higher than the national average. Residents report persistent concerns about truckers, vans with multiple occupants, and public sex acts, which highlight inequities in resources compared to wealthier areas. Revitalization attempts persist amid ongoing challenges like homelessness and slumlord neglect, so far with limited success.

City Center District

The City Center District, located in north-central downtown Dallas, experiences elevated crime due to a mix of socioeconomic, environmental, and urban factors. Home to an estimated 2,636 residents of the Dallas area, the neighborhood is reported to experience approximately 2,182 crimes per 100k people. This ranks it as having 232% more crime than Dallas as a whole and 507% more than the U.S. in general. High concentrations of homelessness draw individuals to area hotspots like Federal Plaza and Main Street Garden, where panhandling, drug sales, and quality-of-life issues persist—despite ongoing security efforts. Economic inequality exacerbates this, with poverty pushing vulnerable populations into areas featuring high vacancy rates, poor lighting, and physical deterioration, which enable crimes of opportunity.

Cedar Crest

Cedar Crest experiences elevated crime rates primarily due to gang activity, poverty, and drug-related issues. The most highly populated area on this list at 67,875 residents, the area reports 1,222 crimes per 100,000 people. Cedar Crest experiences 86% more crime than Dallas in general and 96% more crime than the nation as a whole. A suburban neighborhood in southern Dallas, gang violence drives the majority of Cedar Crest’s murders, shootings, and assaults. Economic challenges and high poverty rates exacerbate property crimes like theft and burglary in the neighborhood. Drug addiction there fuels thefts and domestic violence, while factors like housing vacancies and limited policing resources hinder improvement.​

Lancaster

Located just south of Dallas, Lancaster has reported elevated violent and property crime compared to regional averages. Public data frequently highlights assault, robbery, and firearm-related incidents, particularly in certain residential corridors. Crime patterns tend to be highly localized, with conditions varying block by block. Ongoing community programs and redevelopment efforts aim to improve long-term safety, though challenges persist.

What Contributes to Higher Crime Rates in Some Areas

While no single factor defines a neighborhood, areas that report higher crime activity often experience a mix of environmental and economic stressors. These may include:

• Limited access to social services
• Higher poverty or unemployment rates
• Under-resourced infrastructure
• Fewer community programs or patrols

With that in mind, it’s important to note that crime data doesn’t always define a neighborhood’s character or potential. Many of these communities have dedicated residents and local organizations that are working toward positive change.

Tips for Staying Safe in Higher-Crime Areas

Being proactive doesn’t require a major investment; even simple steps can improve safety and visibility:

• Keep your property well-lit at night
• Always lock doors, windows, and vehicles
• Install visible cameras or video doorbells
• Join or start a neighborhood watch
• Coordinate with neighbors via apps like Nextdoor or Citizen
• Report suspicious activity to iWatchDallas online, or phone 214.671.4500

Crime prevention starts with community awareness and consistent action.

FOR YOU: TOP NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH APPS

How Guardian Protection Can Help

For residents concerned about home safety, technology can add an extra layer of awareness and deterrence. Guardian Protection offers tools designed to support proactive security, including:

• Outdoor security cameras with motion-triggered alerts
• Video doorbells that record and notify in real time
• Smart sensors to monitor doors and windows
• 24/7 professional monitoring for fast emergency response

Our systems help families stay informed and connected, whether they live in higher-risk Dallas neighborhoods or nearby communities around the city.

EXPLORE GUARDIAN’S SERVICES IN YOUR AREA: HOME SECURITY IN DALLAS

Building a Safer Dallas Together

Crime data can be helpful for awareness, but it doesn’t tell the full story. What matters most is how communities respond. Whether you’re already involved in local safety efforts or just looking to protect your household, every step makes a difference.

Guardian Protection is proud to support Dallas homeowners with home security solutions that fit your neighborhood’s needs.

Ready to feel more secure? Get your free quote or call 800.857.5028 to learn more.