Most Dangerous Areas in and Around Washington, D.C.

With a population of approximately 679,000, the nation’s capital ranks as one of the more dangerous cities in the United States. According to data provided by Neighborhood Scout, the District of Columbia scores a total crime index rating of two on a scale of 100. In other words, 98% of American cities are safer overall. However, some D.C. neighborhoods do fare worse than others in this regard. 

Here, we’ll explore the most dangerous areas in and around Washington, D.C., focusing primarily on neighborhoods within the District while also highlighting nearby communities that consistently report elevated crime rates. Insights are based on publicly available data and community safety discussions.

Related: Washington, D.C. Crime Rate Statistics

Areas in and Around Washington, D.C. With the Highest Crime Rates

While the nation’s capital is best known for the Smithsonian museums, national monuments and a rich cultural scene, certain neighborhoods in The District experience crime problems that make home security systems in Washington, D.C. a valuable asset. Based on the latest crime data from AreaVibes, the following District of Columbia neighborhoods have the highest reported crime rates.

Deanwood

Deanwood tops the list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Washington, D.C., according to AreaVibes. With a quoted population of 29,788 Washingtonians, the neighborhood’s violent crime rate is 2,637 per 100,000 people. That figure makes Deanwood’s rate 185% higher than the District in general and 267% higher than the nation as a whole. Positioned in the Northeast quadrant of the District, Deanwood is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Its tree-lined streets host small wood-frame homes dating back to the earliest years of the 20th Century. While Deanwood is one of D.C.’s most historic neighborhoods, incidents of assault and robbery have undermined the safety of the iconic neighborhood.

Brentwood

Brentwood houses some 28,660 residents of the District of Columbia and has a reported violent crime rate of 1,699 crimes per 100k people. This gives it 84% more crime than Washington, D.C. in general and 282% more than the national average. Trapezoidal in geography, Brentwood’s southern border is New York Avenue, while Montana Avenue denotes its eastern boundary.  Rhode Island Avenue NE marks the neighborhood’s northernmost area, while the tracks supporting Washington Metro’s Red Line and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor mark its westernmost boundary. The area takes its name from the Brentwood mansion, built by Robert Brent – the District’s first mayor – as a wedding gift for his daughter in 1817. Today, however, Brentwood is known for garbage centers, bus depots, construction plants, and a high rate of violent crime. 

Anacostia

Anacostia, one of the District’s most populous neighborhoods, is home to an estimated 117,488 people and has a violent crime rate of 1,666 incidents per 100,000 residents. This is 80% higher than the District and 126% higher than that of the entire USA. With its central shopping area located at the intersections of Marion Barry Avenue SE and Martin Luther King Jr Avenue SE, the neighborhood is situated along the eastern bank of the Anacostia River, from which its name is derived. Assaults, robberies, and gun violence are among the leading offenses in the area. While efforts are underway to revitalize Anacostia, its problems are attributed to its poverty level, limited job opportunities, and minimal public resources.

U Street Corridor

The U Street Corridor, situated in the northwest quadrant of the District, offers a vibrant nightlife with the Lincoln Theatre and a number of historic jazz venues located there. Home to an estimated 10,104 residents of the Washington, D.C. area, the neighborhood is reported to experience approximately 1,420 crimes per 100k people. This ranks it as having 53% more crime than D.C. as a whole and 339% more than the U.S. in general. Located in the northwest quadrant of the District, the corridor is bordered by Ninth and 18^th streets and is known as one of the most significant African American heritage districts in the USA. Unfortunately, recent spikes in youth-related disturbances stemming from large crowds around nightlife spots lands the U Street Corridor on this list of the most dangerous areas in Washington, D.C.

Shaw

Shaw, also positioned in the District’s northwest quarter, is a neighborhood of small Victorian row houses and low-rise apartment complexes. Among the area’s most famous historical residents are Duke Ellington and famed historian Carter G. Woodson. Today, some 13,782 residents of the District of Columbia call the Shaw neighborhood home. With a crime rate of 1,380 crimes per 100,000 people, the area is reported to experience 49% more crime than the District in general and 266% more crime than the nation as a whole. Noted for hosting a number of cultural landmarks, including the Howard Theater, Little Ethiopia, and the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the Shaw neighborhood is experiencing a degree of gentrification, which may signal an eventual improvement in the area’s misfortunes.

Suitland

Located just southeast of Washington, D.C., Suitland has long 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 conditions can vary block by block, and ongoing community and redevelopment initiatives are working to improve long-term safety.

Capitol Heights

Bordering the eastern edge of the District, Capitol Heights consistently reports higher-than-average crime rates relative to surrounding areas. Incidents often involve robbery, assault, and property crime. Like many communities adjacent to large urban centers, crime is highly localized, with some blocks experiencing more persistent challenges than others.

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

Here, it’s important to note that crime data doesn’t always define a neighborhood’s potential. Many of these communities are home to dedicated residents and local organizations 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 iWatch online, or phone 202.727.9099 

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 District neighborhoods or nearby communities around Washington, D.C.

Explore Guardian’s services in your area: Home Security in Washington, D.C.

Building a Safer Washington, D.C. 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 Washington, D.C. 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.