Miami is a renowned tourist city, boasting stunning beach views and a vibrant nightlife. However, beneath a multicultural atmosphere lies a hidden danger zone. Although most areas of Miami are safe and reliable, there are still areas where theft, property crimes, and other violent crimes occur. Whether you are a student or a tourist visiting here, we suggest that you get to know the worst neighborhoods in Miami to ensure your own safety.
In 2025, Miami’s crime rate was 34 cases per 1,000 residents, making it one of the cities with the highest crime rates in the United States. Here, the probability of people being called victims of violent crime or property crime is one in twenty-nine. Most of these incidents were property theft crimes, and the number of violent crimes decreased significantly. Specifically, homicide cases dropped by 20%, assault cases by 19%, car theft cases by 23%, and burglary cases by 23%. It can be seen from this that Miami is safer and more reliable this year compared to previous years.
How Dangerous is Miami?
Overall, Miami, as a popular tourist destination, has a relatively safe downtown area and tourist zones. However, there are still some of the worst parts of Miami that require your attention. When NeighborhoodScout compared Miami with other neighborhoods of the same size, it found that its crime rate was close to that of different communities of similar size. Therefore, Miami’s crime rate is close to a medium level, and it is not a very dangerous city.
In Miami, the probability of a person becoming a victim of violent crime is one in 205. This is equivalent to five out of every thousand residents becoming victims of violent crimes. Property crimes still occur most frequently in Miami. The probability of a person becoming a victim of property crimes is one in 34, with 29 out of every thousand people becoming victims. Most importantly, Miami is one of the cities with the highest motor vehicle crime rates in the United States. If you live in this city, the probability of your car being stolen is one in 215.
The above is the latest crime rate analysis for 2025. It can be seen that Miami has complex neighborhood conditions, but it is not one of the most dangerous cities in the United States. We suggest that you travel carefully and avoid going to dangerous areas.
Top 10 Worst Neighborhoods in Miami
Miami, with its diverse culture and vibrant nightlife, is a renowned tourist city. Against the backdrop of the hustle and bustle lies violence and property crimes, which require you to be fully prepared.
1. Overtown
- Crime Rate: It is 103% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 12,917
Overtown is one of the worst neighborhoods in Miami, renowned for its frequent occurrence of violent crimes such as attacks and robberies. The population is 8,608, making it one of the oldest African American communities in Miami. Although street crime has improved under governance, it remains a significant problem in Overtown. Not only that, drug-related criminal activities (violent conflicts and gang activities) are rampant, which exacerbates the crime problem in Overtown.
*We do not recommend walking or cycling in Overtown after dark. Even in groups, it is not advisable to move around here.
2. Liberty City
- Crime Rate: It is 223% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 25,023
Liberty City has experienced many social upheavals and racial riots, causing massive casualties and property losses. The social conflicts and racial oppositions that have been triggered have led to a lack of cohesion in this community, making it one of the worst parts of Miami. There are numerous gangs here, and violent conflicts, drug crimes, and shootings are widespread in the territories between gangs. Although the number of shootings decreased last year, the number of robberies and thefts rose by about 4% in 2025. The infrastructure is aging, and public resources are scarce, which cannot meet the basic needs of residents.
*If you want to live here, it’s best to avoid remote areas and ensure you verify the exact location of the apartment when renting.
3. Little Haiti
- Crime Rate: It is 82% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 32,894
The locals regard Little Haiti as one of the bad neighborhoods in Miami. Here, petty theft and burglary occur frequently, and occasionally, violent criminal incidents also happen. Although social problems have improved through governance, the crime rate at night will still rise. The incidence of vehicle theft and petty theft is about to exceed 3%. Little Haiti is a substantial settlement for Haitian immigrants and residents of other Caribbean regions. The influx of a large number of immigrants has brought different cultures and lifestyles to this area. This process can create conflicts and affect the stability and security of the community.
*If you decide to live here, consider choosing an area with more abundant light and greater safety to ensure your own well-being.
4. Allapattah
- Crime Rate: It is 82% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 47,224
Allapattah, close to the city centre and Winwood, is a historic immigrant community. Property crimes occur frequently here. Incidents such as car theft, burglary and assault have increased by 3% in 2025. It can be seen from this that Allapattah is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Miami. As an immigrant community, it boasts a diverse population structure. The social issues that emerged in the early 1980s had a significant impact on the region’s reputation. Despite the deployment of a large number of police forces, the crime rate remains high.
*Cycling or walking in the east of 9th Avenue and north of 20th Street is relatively safe, but it’s best to explore the safer regions nearby.
5. Model City
- Crime Rate: It is 104% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 25,023
Model City is one of the worst neighborhoods in Miami, where the violent incidents are particularly prominent. The violent crimes here are primarily related to the local drug trade. There are many gangs here. Shootings and gang violence occur frequently. Robberies and burglaries are also prevalent in Model City. Data shows that the rate of violent crime is 8.3 to 59.54 cases per 1,000 residents. The median household income in this area is relatively low, and the poverty rate is high. The economic predicament has also prompted residents to turn to crime as a means of livelihood.
*Please check the crime statistics of Model City before deciding to live here. The public areas here are notorious for robberies and require your extra caution.
6. Wynwood (Surrounding areas)
- Crime Rate: It is 247% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 17,923
Wynwood is a well-known tourist area; it boasts many famous murals and art galleries. However, thefts and late-night incidents have occurred repeatedly in its peripheral regions. There are many bars and clubs here, attracting tourists to spend their nightlife, and as a result, conflicts arise frequently. Not only that, but burglary, car theft, fraud, and attacks occur often here, threatening people’s lives and property safety. In 2025, the incidence of pickpocketing and shoplifting rose by 4%, making it one of Miami worst neighborhoods.
*Don’t go to the surrounding areas of Wynwood to ensure your own safety.
7. Downtown (Select Blocks)
- Crime Rate: It is 518% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 19,627
Downtown is the most conveniently located and well-equipped area in Miami, attracting a large number of tourists to visit. During the day, this place is suitable for taking a walk or cycling. However, in some areas of the downtown, the crime rate is very high at night. Property crimes such as car theft and burglary dominate this area. Its crime rate has increased by 5% year-on-year. Not only that, gang activities have always been a significant problem in the Miami area. At night, the risks of attacks and robberies remain high. You must stay vigilant at all times.
*We recommend sticking to the main road and avoiding unfamiliar, empty streets. Try to carpool rather than walk alone during non-working hours. When taking public transportation, it is recommended always to be vigilant against thieves.
8. Little Havana (Certain Sections)
- Crime Rate: It is 8% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 58,188
Little Havana is a renowned tourist attraction in Miami, boasting a rich history and vibrant culture. However, centain sections are also regarded as one of worst neighborhoods in Miami. Dimly lit streets and areas with abandoned buildings are hazardous zones. It is not recommended that you explore them. Theft, property damage and gang activities often occur here. The incidence of car theft and package theft is expected to increase by 3-4% in 2025, so it is essential to remain vigilant about the safety of your property. Due to historical legacy issues, there are many gangs here, and the violent crime rate cannot be ignored. Although the danger level in this area is lower than that of Overtown and Model City, you should remain vigilant at all times.
*We suggest that you remain active only in the central area, west of 22nd Avenue and south of 8th Street. If you want to rent a house, try to avoid short-term rentals in remote areas.
9. Upper Eastside
- Crime Rate: It is 168% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 9,247
The Upper Eastside is one of the worst neighborhoods in Miami. Property crime incidents often occur here. In the first half of 2024 alone, there were multiple heinous theft incidents and even violent robbery cases where armed criminals attacked employees with weapons. The problem of vehicle theft is also prominent, with approximately 1.017 vehicle theft cases per 1,000 residents. Meanwhile, extreme natural disasters (floods, hurricanes, and high temperatures) frequently occur in this area. Although there is a strong police force deployment and a rapid response mechanism in the local area, the above-mentioned criminal cases still make the Upper East Side one of the worst parts of Miami.
*You recommend always remaining and paying attention to the surroundings. Avoid going alone to remote or dimly lit areas at night. Don’t leave valuable items in the car. Always take good care of your finances.
10. South Coconut Grove
- Crime Rate: The Property crime is 2% higher than the national average crime rate
- Population: 7,956
Opinions on South Coconut Grove vary. The relatively high rate of property crime makes me believe that this is still one of the most bad neighborhoods in Miami. Especially at night, vehicle theft incidents in South Coconut Grove are as high as one in 90. This is also a bustling tourist area with many independent boutiques, bookstores and bars. The complex composition of personnel increases the probability of crime occurrence.
*We recommend that you travel by reputable public transportation and avoid taking unmarked taxis. If you want to walk or ride a bike, you also need to choose a route with plenty of light and a lot of people.
How to Ensure Students' Safety in Miami?
Miami has a complex population, a diverse culture, and beautiful scenery, which attracts many students to study and live there. In this regard, we suggest that you always ensure your own safety. We will also provide you with numerous relevant suggestions to help you establish a sense of safety：
- Avoid traveling alone at night. If you must go out at night, it is recommended that you invite your classmates to join you. Criminals are most likely to attack people who travel alone.
- To take a taxi, you need to book a regular ride-hailing service, such as Uber or Lyft. Never take unmarked, unlicensed taxis.
- Choose a route with plenty of light and high foot traffic when traveling. Avoid choosing areas with a high incidence of accidents.
- When going out, consider carrying an anti-theft school bag. Keep a small amount of cash in your wallet. Student ID cards, campus ID cards, and ID cards need to be placed separately. Your mobile phone needs to be fully charged, and you should set up emergency contact information in advance, such as the school security office phone number and the local police station phone number.
- If you are attacked, stay calm, don’t resist, and do your best to protect your life!
- When choosing a student apartment, prioritize those equipped with 24-hour security and access control systems. The room is equipped with anti-theft devices (an anti-theft chain and small surveillance).
- Do not place valuable items, such as computers, tablets, or headphones, on the windowsill or at the door to avoid attracting thieves.
We specifically summarized the safe neighborhoods in Miami, including Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, and so on. These areas have a relatively low crime rate and many convenient public facilities.
Safe Student Housing in Miami
When students are searching for safe student apartments in Miami, they should consider neighborhoods with low crime rates and select apartments equipped with comprehensive safety features. uhome.com is an authoritative student apartment rental platform that provides you with safe and comfortable apartments. We offer a range of student apartments equipped with 24-hour CCTV and access control systems, ensuring your safety at all times. Not only that, but we also offer a wide variety of room types that cater to the diverse needs and budgets of students. Whether you want to live alone or with friends, you will find your ideal apartment here. Here are our carefully selected safe apartments in Miami:
Conclusion
The above are the identified worst neighborhoods in Miami, along with the corresponding suggestions. After reading this article, you will gain a deeper understanding of Miami’s neighborhoods and thus enjoy a comfortable and safe time in this vibrant city.
FAQ
What is the Cuban hood in Miami?
Little Havana is the Cuban hood in Miami. It is a vibrant and lively neighborhood, renowned for its rich Cuban culture, vibrant art, and fascinating history. It was the historical and cultural center of many Cuban exiles and immigrants, but now it also includes people from Nicaragua, Honduras, and other Latin American countries.
What area in Miami is safest?
Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne, and Pinecrest are the safest in Miami. They have a low crime rate and a strong community infrastructure. Some gated communities are equipped with private security and restricted access, which greatly enhances safety.
Is Little Havana in Miami safe?
Yes, Little Havana in Miami is generally safe, but be aware that the crime rate is higher in some areas, especially at night. We recommend visiting a busy and well-lit area to minimize the risk of property crimes.
What's the most common crime in Miami?
Property crimes are the most common crime in Miami. For tourists, everyday crimes include pickpocketing and theft of personal belongings, such as wallets and purses. Recent statistics show that violent crimes such as homicide, theft, and heinous assault in Miami have decreased.
What part of Miami has the most Cubans?
Little Havana and Hialeah have the most significant Cuban populations. Little Havana is the symbolic heart of Cuban culture in Miami, boasting a vibrant atmosphere. Hialeah is located northwest of downtown Miami and is a large suburb. More than 94% of the population here is Cuban. It is the central hub of the Cuban American community.
