For your next trip to Pennsylvania, you are wondering which neighborhoods in Philadelphia are the most dangerous and safest to stay in. Indeed, everyone knows that there is a serious drug problem and insecurity in certain neighborhoods of Philadelphia. Therefore, it is legitimate to find out about the neighborhoods to avoid before choosing your accommodation or hotel.
Located less than 2 hours from New YorkHowever, Philadelphia is a city worth a visit. Indeed, Philadelphia was for a long time the capital of the United States and has kept a rich heritage of its history so important to the United States of America! This is why tourists should not hesitate to visit Philly as it is called there.
This study reveals whether or not Philadelphia is a dangerous city, which neighborhoods are the most dangerous, and also the best areas to live in Philadelphia.
Is Philadelphia dangerous?
According to the latest update of Numbeo.com rankingThe city of Philadelphia ranks among the 10 most crime-ridden cities in North America. With a high crime rate of 65.98is more dangerous than Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, San Francisco ou Washington.
And, at world level, as Chicago, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro ou LimaBy the end of 2025, Philadelphia is also among the least safe cities in the world.
Is Philadelphia safe for tourists?
Yes, tourists can visit Philadelphia, but only if they avoid the dangerous neighborhoods listed below.
Indeed, regarding insecurity, there is a great geographic disparity according to the neighborhoods of Philadelphia. This is confirmed by official police statistics (see on Philadelphia Police website) but also other classifications like Philadelphia Inquirer ou Area vibes.
It should be noted that tourists are generally not the direct targets of violent crimes committed in Philadelphia. Indeed, the majority of crimes are linked to drugs, trafficking of all kinds and gang phenomena.
Kensington dangerous neighborhood in Philadelphia
The biggest crime problem in Philadelphia has to do with neighborhoods hit by drug abuse. In fact, in recent years, drug addicts have come from all over the United States to consume fentanyl, which is a pain reliever 100 times more powerful than morphine. Because, unfortunately, it is in Philadelphia that this drug is the cheapest (3 dollars per dose).
The Kensington neighborhood is a former industrial district of Philadelphia. See his Google Maps location.
This 2 square kilometer area has become the largest narcotics market in the United States. Invaded by more than 1 drug addicts and drug dealers who wage war among themselves, Kensington has become the most dangerous neighborhood in Philadelphia.
Most dangerous neighborhoods in Philadelphia
By synthesizing ranking information and the latest statistics, here are, in addition to Kensington, the other most dangerous neighborhoods in Philadelphia:
- Tioga-Nicetown
- Allegheny West
- Strawberry mansion
- Hunting park
- North central
- Fairhill
- Harrowgate
- Haddington - Carroll Park
- elmwood
- Frankford
Other areas to avoid in Philadelphia
While not as dangerous as Kensington or those listed above, here are other neighborhoods to avoid at night in Philadelphia or for staying overnight:
- Brewerytown
- germantown
- Poplar-Ludlow-Yorktowne
- Gray's Ferry
- Hartranft
- Belmont
- Logan-fern rock
- Riverfront
- Morris Park
- Richmond
The red light districts of Philadelphia are also areas to avoid, especially at night:
- Kensington Avenue
- Northern Liberties
Safest Neighborhoods in Philadelphia
Aside from the dangerous neighborhoods to avoid in Philadelphia, there are many very pleasant neighborhoods to stay in. They are too numerous and different to say which ones are the best. Indeed, they all have their own identity, character and atmosphere, it's all a question of taste.
However, the majority of real estate agencies agree that the safest neighborhoods in Philadelphia are:
- bustleton
- Somerton
- chestnut hill
- Fox chase
- Academy Gardens
- Rhawnhurst
- Roxborough
- torresdale
- Byberry
Where to stay in Philadelphia to visit
For travelers looking for a hotel close to the sights of Philadelphia, the best area is Old Town (The Old City).
The Old City - Philadelphia Tourist District
The Old City is the historic neighborhood of Philadelphia that was the birthplace of American independence. It is a must-see area for tourists. Indeed, it is in this district that the main historical sites of Philadelphia are located (Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, Museum of the American Revolution, National Constitution Center). See his Google Maps location
Where to stay in Philadelphia in the Old City neighborhood?
Here is a good hotel with probably the best location for visiting Philadelphia: The Kimpton Hotel Monaco.
Indeed, it is located in the center of the historic district, 87 meters from Independence Hall and has a roof terrace with a view of the Liberty Bell!
Are you looking for a cheap hotel? In the heart of the Old City district, theApple Hostels Of Philadelphia also has a very nice location: 500 meters from the Museum of the American Revolution and the National Historical Park of Independence. It is a youth hostel which offers comfortable rooms with very good value for money.
How to visit Philadelphia safely?
Here are two convenient and interesting ways to see the must-see sites in Philadelphia: Philadelphia Guided Tour ou Philadelphia Tourist Bus