Milwaukee areas to avoid and dangerous neighborhoods

For your next stay in Wisconsin, you learn about the city of Milwaukee to identify areas to avoid and dangerous neighborhoods.

Indeed, although Milwaukee is a great city, certain neighborhoods are known for their high crime rates, violence and drug trafficking. So, if you are looking for where to stay in Milwaukee, it is best to avoid these areas to ensure your safety and well-being.

That's why, below you will find a guide to the city's neighborhoods with Google Maps to locate areas to avoid and the most dangerous neighborhoods in Milwaukee.

All the information in this article comes from web publications (press, forums, blogs, statistics and world rankings). This is a summary of data which therefore does not include any judgment or discriminatory remarks.

Is Milwaukee a crime city?

Milwaukee is a city that has had a reputation for crime for many years. As a result, many people wonder if it is safe to live or visit there. See on Most Violent Cities in America.

When it comes to crime rates, it is true that Milwaukee has a higher crime rate than many other cities in the United States. However, it is important to note that the trend was downward from 2014 until 2019. In fact, efforts have been made to reduce the level of crime in the city. But despite these efforts, Milwaukee remains a city with a high crime rate.

Then, after 2019, the trend seems to be reversing. In 2020, there were more than 160 homicides in the city, making it the deadliest year in Milwaukee history.

And according to numerous statistics, it appears that Milwaukee was also a dangerous city in 2022 and 2023.

See, for example, the article of Time.com newspaper which indicates that as of October 3, 2022, according to the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD), the city had recorded 173 homicides, an increase of 20% compared to 2021.

But what about today: Is Milwaukee still so dangerous in 2024?

Is Milwaukee dangerous in 2024?

Yes in 2024, according to numerous publications, Milwaukee will be among the most dangerous cities in North America. Indeed, in 2024, according to the site neighborhood scout which ranks the 100 most dangerous cities in the United States, Milwaukee would be in 13th position with a violent crime rate of 16.6 per 1000 inhabitants.

In comparison on this ranking, Milwaukee is more dangerous than Baltimore, St. Louis ou Kansas City.

Also, for 2024 on the Numbeo website of the most criminal American cities, Milwaukee is ranked at the top of the table. With a crime index of 67.64, Milwaukee is the 8th most crime-ridden city in the USA (see map below):

Milwaukee crime map — Map published on the site https://fr.numbeo.com/

And if we compare at the global level, still according to Numbeo.com, in 2024 Milwaukee would be the 40th most criminal city in the world. According to this ranking, Milwaukee would be more dangerous than Bogota, Santiago de Chile or even that Cancun au Mexico.

Is Milwaukee safe for tourists?

Hard to say because it all depends on the neighborhoods of Milwaukee. Indeed, although the overall crime rate in Milwaukee is high, it is important to note that crime is not evenly distributed across the city.

Some neighborhoods in Milwaukee have much higher crime rates than others, and it's important for tourists to know about them so they can avoid them.

Indeed, as everywhere in big cities, in Milwaukee tourists must remain cautious and avoid the least safe areas, especially at night.

Map of Milwaukee neighborhoods

The city of Milwaukee is divided into many neighborhoods some officially listed, some unofficial. You can find the full list of Milwaukee neighborhoods at Wikipedia.

And to help you spot the most dangerous areas of Milwaukee, discover below the map of the main areas of the city: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gjz6eSC8VdheGbEk7

What are the main areas to avoid in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee is a city with a great diversity of neighborhoods, each with a unique character and charm. However, as with any large city, some areas are considered less safe than others.

One of the main areas to avoid in Milwaukee is the area northwest of Downtown, which has a reputation for having a majority of neighborhoods with high crime rates. This area experiences a high incidence of violent crime, including shootings and homicides. Gang activity is also prevalent in these neighborhoods, contributing to high crime rates.

Milwaukee's Most Dangerous Neighborhoods

Neighborhoods are deemed unsafe when they have the highest per capita rates of violent crime and property crime.

According to many websites like areavibes, crimegrade ou upgradedhome.com, here are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Milwaukee and its suburbs:

This list is neither classified nor exhaustive, it is merely indicative.

Should tourists avoid Downtown?

Downtown Milwaukee is a large area that is home to some of Milwaukee's most luxurious hotels, great restaurants, and upscale shopping destinations. Downtown is also close to some of Milwaukee's top tourist attractions, such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Discovery World Science Museum.

Downtown Milwaukee is made up of several neighborhoods. Even if some can be dangerous, especially at night, others are more peaceful and calm, especially during the day. As a precaution, tourists should avoid isolated or uncrowded places at night.

Milwaukee Safest Areas

According to the majority of Internet publications, the safest areas of Milwaukee are the east side and an area to the south of the city.

Whitefish Bay is one of those less dangerous areas of Milwaukee. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this suburb has a population of about 14 and the crime rate here is significantly lower than the national average. This is an affluent community with well-maintained homes, excellent schools, and plenty of amenities that cater to families and professionals alike.

Fox Point is also among the least dangerous neighborhoods in Milwaukee. Also located along the shores of Lake Michigan, it has a population of just over 7 people. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and excellent schools.

Bay View, Historic Third Ward, Juneau Town and Lower East Side are also some of Milwaukee's safest neighborhoods.

The 3 best neighborhoods to stay in Milwaukee

Located in the Midwest region of the United States on Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a hidden gem for tourism. With its rich history, unique culture and beautiful scenery, Milwaukee is a must-visit destination for travelers. However, the choice of neighborhoods is so vast that it can be difficult to decide where to stay. Fortunately, a few neighborhoods stand out as being the favorites of tourists:

Historic Third Ward
Bay view
Lower East Side (Downtown)

Historic Third Ward, Milwaukee's most touristy neighborhood

One of the best areas to stay in Milwaukee as a tourist is the neighborhood Historic Third Ward. This district is a paradise for art lovers with its many art galleries, fashion with its beautiful shops and culture with its theaters. The neighborhood is also home to Milwaukee's Public Market which is a foodie's paradise.

You can taste delicious local cuisine and buy handicrafts there.

The Historic Third Ward also offers easy access to Milwaukee's lakefront, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy strolling along the water.

Which hotel in Milwaukee?

Great location in the heart of the Historic Third Ward, the luxury hotel Kimpton Journeyman is close to Milwaukee's top tourist attractions.

Hotel Milwaukee

Recommended hotel in a safe area away from Milwaukee areas to avoid

Here is another very beautiful hotel very well placed for a tourist stay and whose architecture and decoration are remarkable: Hilton garden

Downtown Milwaukee Hotel