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The Top 20 Worst Neighborhoods In Philly
We just finished updating a comprehensive study on the top-20 most dangerous and worst neighborhoods in Philadelphia. If you have any plans to visit, travel or live in Philadelphia then you’re going to want to read this article in its entirety.
Before we dive in completely, it is important to note that:
Philadelphia has a long history of challenging neighborhoods, with some areas facing persistent issues over the last few decades. And, just like many other major metropolises across the US, Philly has struggled with crime, poverty and many other issues in certain neighborhoods. This list explores that very “dark side” of the city of brotherly love. It uses data to highlight the most troubling and unsafe areas.
In this story, we will share everything with you, from:
- Why each neighborhood made it’s way onto the list
- The criteria we use to determine dangerous neighborhoods
- Where we get our 2026 neighborhood data from
- What free resources you have available for dealing with a difficult neighborhood
Without further ado, here’s the ranked list of Philadelphia’s worst neighborhoods in 2026:
Now, let’s dive into each, one by one, to figure out what’s going on.
1. Tioga – Nicetown
The Tioga – Nicetown neighborhood is situated in North Philadelphia. It comes in as one of the most dangerous places in Philadelphia due to elevated levels of crime. Even within Tioga, there are specific areas (i.e., blocks) that are known for their higher than average crime rates. It’s important to be aware of these when living or traveling through.
In fact, this Reddit post sums it up pretty well:
For those unfamiliar with Tioga-Nicetown, it would be wise to do some research before deciding to visit or even consider living there full-time.
Tioga – Nicetown Crime Stats
Ranking: #1
- Population: 17,382
- Violent Crimes: 3,075
- Property Crimes: 8,933
- Total Crimes: 12,008
- Compared to National Avg.: 417%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 195%
2. Allegheny West
Allegheny West, situated right next to Tioga-Nicetown, is a very dangerous neighborhood. In fact, many consider it one of the most dangerous neighborhood in Philly. Our data indicated a second place showing in the worst areas in Philadelphia. Stepping into this area could mean burglary and motor vehicle theft.
Residents of Allegheny West also have voiced that the police force is active but very slow to respond. And although some reports indicate that crime levels are dropping, it is not happening quick enough to provide residents and visitors with comfort.
Allegheny West Crime Stats
Ranking: #2
- Population: 18,676
- Violent Crimes: 2,864
- Property Crimes: 7,485
- Total Crimes: 10,349
- Compared to National Avg.: 345%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 175%
3. North Central
If you’ve ever been to North Central, you may not be surprised by it being ranked as one of the worst neighborhoods in Philly.
North Central covers a lot of ground. This neighborhood is the quintessential “North Philly” area that is known for dangerous levels of crime and gang violence. The reason North Central has a long history of crime and social challenges is because of the reputation it has built over the years. It is home to Temple University, where many students live and attend classes.
For students and visitors, you may want to heed this advice from a fellow Philadelphian:
North Central Crime Stats
Ranking: #3
- Population: 14,299
- Violent Crimes: 2,309
- Property Crimes: 8,854
- Total Crimes: 11,163
- Compared to National Avg.: 380%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 122%
4. Strawberry Mansion
Don’t be confused by the name – Strawberry Mansion is not a fancy or ritzy area. In fact, this neighborhood is an absolute crime magnet.
Although it was once one of the wealthiest areas of Philadelphia (as shown by the old and dilapidated mansions and stately buildings) it has since been neglected by city officials and law enforcement.
Strawberry Mansion is in close proximity to Fairmount Park which has continued to stabilize the area and help the neighborhood revitalize over time. We’ve already seen many developers turn vacant lots in Strawberry Mansion into beautiful rowhomes.
If this an area you decided to visit or stay in, please use caution with securing your vehicles and doors.
Strawberry Mansion Crime Stats
Ranking: #4
- Population: 13,933
- Violent Crimes: 2,265
- Property Crimes: 5,634
- Total Crimes: 7,899
- Compared to National Avg.: 240%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 117%
5. Harrowgate
Is Harrowgate one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Philadelphia? Yes, absolutely.
Harrowgate is located in Northeast Philadelphia.
It is one of the main central locations for Philadelphia’s ongoing drug problem. The drug dealing activities also typically brings about elevated levels of prostitution and theft. With it being situated so close to Kensington, the drug capital of Philadelphia, you can imagine the spillover and crimes that seep into its blocks.
Harrowgate Crime Stats
Ranking: #5
- Population: 16,098
- Violent Crimes: 1,982
- Property Crimes: 9,431
- Total Crimes: 11,413
- Compared to National Avg.: 391%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 90%
6. Haddington – Carroll Park
This neighborhood jumps away from North Philadelphia and brings you all the way west of the city. For many, West Philadelphia has a strong reputation for being dangerous.
Haddington – Carroll Park is no different.
Some experts say, that living in this area gives you a 1 in 60 chance of being part of a crime (assault, theft, burglary, homicide). Nobody wants to be a victim, but this neighborhood is difficult to avoid that. If you happen to take that 1 in 60 chance, please stay in well-lit and well-populated areas of the neighborhood to reduce the risk of crime.
Additionally, it’s been mentioned that the crime problem in Haddington – Carroll Park stems from unemployment. Without jobs and income, some residents resort to theft, robbery or selling drugs to make ends meet.
Haddington – Carroll Park Crime Stats
Ranking: #6
- Population: 35,068
- Violent Crimes: 1,851
- Property Crimes: 10,499
- Total Crimes: 12,350
- Compared to National Avg.: 431%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 78%
7. Fairhill
Is Fairhill on your list of places to visit? Probably not.
Here’s why:
Fairhill happens to be one of the poorest parts of Philadelphia. And with that, comes a lot of drugs, crime and theft. Philadelphia continues to invest in improving Fairhill but so far it has not had a noticeable impact.
The crime rates in the area continue to be above the national average in 2026 which makes it a safety concern.
If that doesn’t say enough, check out this exchange on Reddit around Fairhill:
Fairhill Crime Stats
Ranking: #7
- Population: 4,405
- Violent Crimes: 1,800
- Property Crimes: 9,365
- Total Crimes: 11,165
- Compared to National Avg.: 380%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 73%
8. Brewerytown
Brewerytown has long been known as the latest up and coming neighborhood in Philadelphia. If you ask anybody, they would say it’s gentrifying and moving in the right direction, but is that really true?
Although there is a great community and neighborhood association, the area continues to be challenged by crime and violence.
Many residents of Brewerytown offer the following advice:
- Avoid walking down less-traveled blocks
- Be mindful of what area of Brewerytown you are in
- Stay alert when traveling through Brewerytown at night
- Be aware of your surrounding at all times. Being vigilant can help you avoid risky situations in Brewerytown or any other neighborhood in Philadelphia, PA.
Brewerytown Crime Stats
Ranking: #8
- Population: 9,470
- Violent Crimes: 1,794
- Property Crimes: 5,282
- Total Crimes: 7,076
- Compared to National Avg.: 204%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 72%
9. Germantown
If you ever thought about visiting Germantown, there are some safe and nice areas. However, if you aren’t careful, it can change rather quickly.
East Germantown gets a bad rap for unsafe blocks primarily due to its proximity to North Philadelphia. The types of crimes in Germantown can be less violent (theft, vandalism, package theft, etc.) but always unpredictable.
If you plan to visit or live in Germantown, be mindful of the fact that certain blocks are worse than others. Even residents of East Germantown cite the fact that it is loud, dirty and violent.
Germantown Crime Stats
Ranking: #9
- Population: 66,915
- Violent Crimes: 1,744
- Property Crimes: 5,553
- Total Crimes: 7,297
- Compared to National Avg.: 214%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 67%
10. Hunting Park
Hunting Park is a neighborhood in North Philadelphia, a predominantly dangerous section of the city. Although many residents complain of the noise and vehicle usage (shown below), there still are some large crime statistics being captured out of Hunting Park.
Lots of residents and visitors often get their cars broken into overnight which has led to many complaints and calls into 311 – Philadelphia’s resident help hotline.
Hunting Park Crime Stats
Ranking: #10
- Population: 17,642
- Violent Crimes: 1,692
- Property Crimes: 4,346
- Total Crimes: 6,038
- Compared to National Avg.: 160%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 62%
11. Kensington
If you’re wondering where all the drugs in Philadelphia are coming from, you can bet that they made there way through Kensington at some point.
Kensington sits just northeast of the city and has long been renowned as an open-air drug market – among one of the largest in the world. And with that, crime rates in the area correlate which makes it even more of a concern for residents and city officials.
Heavy crime and blight across the neighborhood continue in 2026.
The city has continued efforts to try and clean up Kensington but so far there has not been any measurable improvement.
Kensington Crime Stats
Ranking: #11
- Population: 24,869
- Violent Crimes: 930
- Property Crimes: 6,014
- Total Crimes: 6,944
- Compared to National Avg.: 199%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 74%
12. Logan – Fern Rock
Logan, Ogontz & Fern Rock are all clustered together in one area of the city that has a reputation for being an extremely dangerous area. About 20 minutes north of center city, you will find these neighborhoods riddled with nefarious activities such as: theft, gun-point robberies and even homicide.
It’s so bad, that even their own residents suggest not visiting:
Logan – Fern Rock Crime Stats
Ranking: #12
- Population: 23,813
- Violent Crimes: 1,320
- Property Crimes: 3,952
- Total Crimes: 5,272
- Compared to National Avg.: 127%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 32%
13. Morris Park
Jumping back over to west Philadelphia you will find the neighborhood of Morris Park situated on the border of Philadelphia county.
Morris Park is a lower income area with high-density housing and very few businesses. At times, this can be a recipe for crime. Certain areas of Morris Park are more prone to it than others, so be aware of those hotspots when visiting.
In fact, just recently, there was a gruesome homicide investigation around a body found hanging from a tree. If you’re still on the fence about Morris Park, don’t be. It’s one of the worst neighborhoods in the city.
Morris Park Crime Stats
Ranking: #13
- Population: 26,860
- Violent Crimes: 1,194
- Property Crimes: 3,832
- Total Crimes: 5,026
- Compared to National Avg.: 116%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 26%
14. Juniata
For a long time, residents of Juniata have been at risk for multiple different crimes. In 2026, it continues to be considered a dangerous area because residents and visitors are still at the helm of crime, drugs and vandalism.
This working class neighborhood is also constantly being threatened by gun violence, murders, car-jackings and other theft. It’s no surprise that Juniata struggles to instill a more peaceful environment.
Since this is another key area with noticeable safety concerns, it’s recommended to visit Juniata during the day and with a companion.
Juniata Crime Stats
Ranking: #14
- Population: 34,014
- Violent Crimes: 1,048
- Property Crimes: 3,051
- Total Crimes: 4,099
- Compared to National Avg.: 76%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 25%
15. Olney
Olney is another one of those North Philadelphia neighborhoods that continue to struggle with crime and other illegal activities. In fact, it’s not uncommon for gang violence to make headlines in Olney. There have been multiple shootings and murders in 2023 and 2024 that have driven residents and visitors to absolute paranoia.
If Olney is on your list of places to visits, reconsider or plan it out wisely.
Olney Crime Stats
Ranking: #15
- Population: 41,744
- Violent Crimes: 1,038
- Property Crimes: 3,157
- Total Crimes: 4,195
- Compared to National Avg.: 80%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 5%
16. Cobbs Creek
This West Philly neighborhood is infamously known for it’s creek that shapes Philadelphia’s border with Delaware county. However, there is another stark border within the neighborhood that many residents often steer clear of:
Certain areas in and around Cobbs Creek are particularly vulnerable to the elevated crime rates.
Cobbs Creek Crime Stats
Ranking: #16
- Population: 33,242
- Violent Crimes: 1,159
- Property Crimes: 4,762
- Total Crimes: 5,921
- Compared to National Avg.: 155%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 48%
17. Elmwood
Heading a bit further South of Cobbs Creek and you’ll reach Elmwood, a Southwest Philly neigborhood. Despite its large Catholic presence, this neighborhood still seems to be plagued by gang violence and petty theft. There are many vehicle break-ins and small-time theft reported in Elmwood annually.
Are you looking for a bit more detail and context on what Elmwood is all about?
Check out this video where you can get a first-hand experience of driving through Elmwood:
Elmwood Crime Stats
Ranking: #17
- Population: 15,688
- Violent Crimes: 1,418
- Property Crimes: 5,030
- Total Crimes: 6,448
- Compared to National Avg.: 177%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 61%
18. Torresdale
If you’ve considered moving into Philadelphia and found Torresdale on a list of neighborhoods to check out, then make sure you rent first before buying. Torresdale is one of those neighborhoods that has pockets of good and pockets of bad. You’ll need to asses it block by block.
A lot of residents believe that the problem with Torresdale is the overflow of the Kensington problem. Drugs, theft and robberies are super common because of the activities just a neighborhood away in Kensington.
Torresdale Crime Stats
Ranking: #18
- Population: 25,247
- Violent Crimes: 881
- Property Crimes: 2,422
- Total Crimes: 3,303
- Compared to National Avg.: 42%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: -17%
19. Frankford
Frankford is tough. No way around it.
There are tons of shootings, muggings and prostitution activities going on in Frankford every day of the week.
This high-crime neighborhood also has some safer spots dotted throughout, but overall it still makes our list of most dangerous areas in Philly for 2026.
And this neighborhood too, happens to be another bordering neighborhood to Kensington, which many believe to be the source of the issue.
If you are contemplating moving to Frankford, you may want to rethink your approach there. It’s unsafe and ranked as one Philadelphia’s worst neighborhoods.
Frankford Crime Stats
Ranking: #19
- Population: 23,989
- Violent Crimes: 1,595
- Property Crimes: 5,509
- Total Crimes: 7,104
- Compared to National Avg.: 206%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 78%
20. Richmond
Last but not least, Richmond. Richmond or Port Richmond is one of the first neighborhoods North of the city that is categorized as bad. This is where the violence and criminal activities begin for a string of neighborhoods North of it (Kensington, Frankford, etc.).
If you’re visiting very popular Fishtown or Northern Liberties, take caution because it’s not far before you run right into Richmond. In fact, you wouldn’t even notice right away and then the danger level rises rapidly.
Richmond Crime Stats
Ranking: #20
- Population: 26,912
- Violent Crimes: 1,239
- Property Crimes: 4,920
- Total Crimes: 6,159
- Compared to National Avg.: 165%
- Compared to Philadelphia Avg.: 54%
How Do We Measure “Dangerous” or “Worst”?
For us, it really boils down to safety. People want to feel a certain level of safety when they are in a neighborhood.
Whether they are just there for the day visiting friends and family, or they are a permanent resident – safety is top priority.
Without a safe environment, many other problems develop:
- Homelessness
- Drugs
- Abandoned vehicles
- Unsafe structures
- Closed businesses
You get the point.
And when we evaluated safety, we focused on crime.
Violent crime is the cornerstone of a dangerous neighborhood.
It’s also a key ingredient for many other illegal and dangerous activities. Where there is crime, there is burglary, assault, murder, theft and many other unlawful acts that damage a neighborhood’s reputation.
And lucky for us, the data on crime is not only accurate, but it’s current too.
When we analyze the crime data, it’s always in comparison to the national average. So while many of these neighborhoods may seem to have a larger than average drug/crime problem…maybe it’s just a sign that Philadelphia overall does. 😟
How To Avoid The Most Dangerous Areas In Philadelphia
There are three tips for people interested in the above neighborhoods. Follow this guidance carefully as each of the locations mentioned can prove to be unpredictable and dangerous.
First off, you can just decide to not visit, engage or live in the above neighborhoods. Unless you have a strong reason (family, friends, etc.) then choosing not to be there physically is the best and safest course of action.
If you must go, go with others and bring protection.
I suggest the following:
- Go during the day.
- Use the city’s crime map.
- Look for police presence.
- Avoid poorly lit areas
- Bring protection.
- Be aware.
- Don’t stare.
- Mind your own business.
- Lock your car doors.
These are the worst neighborhoods in Philadelphia according to crime statistics and above average crime rates.
No one is forcing you to live there or subject your personal life (and that of your family’s) to crime and danger.
If you rent in any of these neighborhoods, then plan your next move wisely. You can end your lease and look for a home in a better area.
If you own you house in one of these locations, then you can sell your house fast and be done with it.
In either case, my team and I are real estate professionals who can help. Let us show you how to sell your home quickly in Philadelphia or find another place to live nearby.
Also, we buy houses in Philadelphia regardless of the location. If you own a home in a bad neighborhood, then you can always sell it to us and let us deal with the hassle.
We Buy Homes In Philadelphia
Signature Properties Take On The High Crime Rates
Look, I’ve been working in Philadelphia neighborhoods for years now, and I can tell you that high crime rates are still a real problem in a lot of areas.
It affects everyone. Even if you don’t live and work in any of these particular areas. From what I see on the streets during appointments and meeting sellers at their homes, there are certain neighborhoods, especially in North Philadelphia and West Philadelphia, that just keep dealing with serious violent crime.
I’ve seen it firsthand. On certain blocks you can observe gun violence, gang violence, prostitution, open-air drug markets, vacant properties, etc.
But what is even more troubling, in our opinion, is the Philadelphia Police Department’s ability to clean it all up.
Here’s the thing about property crimes…they don’t stop unless someone steps in to stop them. It’s a bad behavior that becomes a norm for a certain neighborhood. This includes burglary, theft, car break-ins, petty crime, etc.
However, neighborhoods with good police presence and communities that actually get involved can make a change. For example, places like University City and Northern Liberties tend to have lower crime rates, but that wasn’t always the case. Today, you can feel the difference when you’re there.
The truth is that fixing Philly’s high crime rates takes more than just putting more cops on the street. You need a real strategy that includes getting communities involved, bringing in economic development, and creating educational opportunities. When people work together to tackle what’s actually causing crime, that’s when Philadelphia can start building safer, more vibrant neighborhoods for everyone.
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Author: Doug Greene
Doug Greene is no stranger to all topics real estate and business. For over a decade he has been educating others and helping homeowners navigate difficult, complex problems with their property.
His work has been featured in the NY Times, Washington Post, Realtor.com, Apartment Therapy, HomeLight, Homes & Gardens and many more.