In the diversity of Miami, which offers everything from student neighborhoods to modern and luxurious enclaves, an important reality hides about certain neighborhoods. Although Miami is generally considered a safe city compared to others its size, there are areas that challenge the city’s glowing reputation.
Below are some areas that require special attention.
1) Overtown
One of Miami’s oldest African-American neighborhoods, Overtown has a rich history and culture. However, the shadow of armed violence and high crime rates clouds its past.
Avoiding night walks is advisable due to the presence of gangs. Although it has a crime rate 145% higher than the national average, this neighborhood is safer than 23% of Miami neighborhoods. Unfortunately, crime has seen a steady increase of at least 2% annually.
2) Downtown
Despite being a magnet for tourists, downtown Miami faces challenges with its high crime rate, exceeding the national average for violent crime by 308%.
Although the area may seem attractive with its bars and lively nightlife, the numbers are worrying. In 2022, 7,758 crimes were recorded, including violent and property crimes, in a population of 30,065 inhabitants. Of these, 1,109 were violent crimes and 6,649 involved property.
The cost of living, with the median home price of $357,679 and median household income of $34,937, makes living here a challenge, favoring renting over buying.
3) Model City
With a population of 25,023 people, Model City is considered one of the neighborhoods with the worst violent crime rates in Miami. Located in the northwest sector of the city, much of its violent crime is linked to local drug trafficking.
In Model City, shootings, robberies and gun violence are common. Although police presence has contributed to a recent decrease in crime, walking or traveling during daylight hours is still discouraged due to the dangerousness of the neighborhood.
4) Wynwood
Wynwood, located south of the Little Haiti Design District and north of Miami, is home to approximately 17,923 people.
Vehicle theft, vandalism, assaults and other property crimes are common. Despite being safer than 23% of Miami areas in Florida, this neighborhood has a violent crime rate 285% higher than the national average. The suspicion that many cases of violence are not reported is an additional issue, although 7.26 violent crimes and 6,542 property crimes were recorded in 2018.
5) Upper Eastside
Living in the Upper Eastside is comparatively risky due to its crime rates, which are 230% higher than the national average. However, the police action is remarkable and they do their best to keep everyone safe.
In 2022, 6,245 crimes were recorded, including car theft, rape, assault and murder. Of these, 697 were violent crimes and the remaining 5,548 were property crimes.
Miami is a unique city with areas that have their own distinctive appeal. The city is known for its vibrant culture and sunny beaches. However, like any large metropolis, there are parts where crime is a problem.
The Miami-Dade Police Department collaborates with the community to maintain law and order, foster a safe environment and facilitate the rapid and efficient flow of traffic.
Both violent and property crimes are common in these neighborhoods, some with crime rates much higher than the national average.
