Top 20 Worst Neighborhoods In Philadelphia (2024 Guide)

The Top 20 Worst Neighborhoods In Philadelphia

We just finished 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.

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 2024 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 2024:

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. Many residents of Philadelphia avoid this area altogether because it poses heavy risk and threatens basic levels of safety when traveling through it.

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. Coming in at one of the worst areas in Philadelphia, this neighborhood is known for burglary and motor vehicle thefts.

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. North Central 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.

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 one of the main central locations for Philadelphia’s ongoing drug problem. The drug problem 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.

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.

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

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

This neighborhood jumps back right into 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. 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.

With that, comes heavy crime and blight across the neighborhood.

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 dangerous. 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.

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. This working class neighborhood is 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:

most dangerous neighborhoods philadelphia

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. 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:

MOST DANGEROUS HOODS ELMWOOD SOUTHWEST PHILADELPHIA DRIVING TOUR

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.

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.

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.

How To Avoid Dangerous Neighborhoods 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.
Bring protection.
Be aware.
Don’t stare.
Mind your own business.
Lock your car doors.

These are the worst neighborhoods in Philadelphia.

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.

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