Green = Good, Purple = Good, Yellow = Precede with caution, Orange = Bad..but not the worst, and Red = Bad and worst. She has been living the van life for 3 years and has not looked back since. It has the second-highest homicide rate of any U.S. metro area, and the murder rate is only increasing. As someone who lived in Memphis for two years, worked in Midtown, and enjoyed downtowns entertainment district, I will admit I lived in nearby Germantown because the crime rates were lower. Making the city less livable. Be careful when youre downtown crime statistics are covered up to boost the citys image for business and tourism. This was my only time in town, but both days I saw some violent crime cool town though, didnt stop me from going to be bb kings the second night, great music. Average murder rates are 52.44 out of 100,000, which includes tourists killed. I stayed a couple of nights at the Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis. However, Midtown is one of the few places at the heart of Memphis that is significantly safer than surrounding neighborhoods. You should also take special precaution as a solo traveler as you are more vulnerable to becoming a victim of crime. Living downtown is safe and desirable. That's a record for the city - but not one the Chamber of Commerce is likely to promote. | Safety Concerns. Sign up for our free newsletter. ", "Your biggest problem while visiting Downtown would be a loud panhandler or homeless person. The Safest Neighborhoods In Memphis: 2022's Ultimate List Staying aware of what other drivers are doing can help you avoid accidents. ", "If you stick to the popular areas like midtown, Cooper Young, Beale Street, Main Street, you will most likely be fine. The tap water provided by Memphis Light, Gas, and Water meets all standards and is in full compliance, according to the 2021 Annual Water Quality Report. I have been in & out of Memphis multiple times and have lived here over 20 years. Is Memphis safe? Always. Memphis violent crime rate and property crime rate is more than 3x the national average! Memphis has long been one of the most dangerous cities in America, and in 2021 it had violent crime rates more than six times the national average. They werent aggressive, but it was uncomfortable. You are advised to park your car in a safe area with better security and to keep your pricey belongings safely tucked away when in Whitehaven. Is Memphis dangerous for tourists? - Garden Center Care Even those sunglasses you left sitting on the dash. Signature outdoor festivals, the infamous Graceland, and Sun studios are a few reasons why some people will bear the relentless Memphis summer heat to get a taste of what lifes like on this side of the Mississippi river. What Ever Happened to Anne Schedeen From ALF? You must have visited on a good day, there was another shooting at Cars on Sam Cooper, I was stuck in Traffic then I saw Blue Lights and a car with window shot out. Leading to vicious life cycles. We have beautiful buildings and houses that are 100+ years old. Report Ranks America's 15 Safest (And Most Dangerous) Cities - Forbes Memphis has the highest violent and property crime rate in the U.S. There were 1900 murders in Memphis in 2019. Memphis comes with a high risk, which isn't a ranking we give lightly. You'll notice a lot of police presence downtown (especially around Beale Street) in both the day and night, but travelers should still exercise caution in tourist areas, which are known to have a high concentration of panhandlers. Most people may differ as to whether Raleigh belongs on this list because a good fraction of Memphis consider this area the safest in the city. Midtown neighborhoods can be hit or miss when it comes to safety concerns, so be sure to stick to main roads when youre driving here. Memphis is one of the beautiful cities in southeastern region of United States and it is the 2 nd largest city in Tennessee State. Many say that it is the worst city in the nation regarding crimes per person in the town. Come to Memphis at your own risk. There is a lot of violence and crime in these neighborhoods. Memphis was already a dangerous city and now its getting worse and covering a more broad area. Why Is Memphis Tn Dangerous? - CLJ I've lived here for 4 years, moving around 3 different areas (Midtown, East Memphis, Germantown), and I don't feel is particularly dangerous. (2022 Crime Rates And Crime Stats), Is Indianapolis Safe To Visit? So what are you waiting for book your trip today! getty. That is done by working on why it is so dangerous and addressing one problem at a time. - Senior Reporter, Silicon Valley Business Journal. Its a great city that has tons of attractions and a thriving music, art and food scene. Never had any issues living in Bartlett. It seems like all the bad stuff happens after 12am and as long as youre not out that late, you will be fine. Travel news, itineraries, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox. As Jasejase stated above, downtown is one of the safest areas of Memphis with a high police presence. And I have only seen cops pulling people over one time. Darkness brings out more of the extreme criminals, and a neighborhood you walk through at noon may be an area where you hide in your home at night. My Mum and I visited in 2014, for her 50th (complete Elvis fan), I found Beale Street to be clean and the locals to be very welcoming. The tricky thing about Memphis is that the city is very block by block, meaning one street is nice and the next street over is crime-ridden. ", "Ive lived in Memphis for the last 12 years and to be honest, it is more dangerous than other cities that I have lived. Yea Im pretty sure Memphis isnt a place anyone should move to. Memphis is a beautiful city with a terrific mix of historical interests and new attractions. I wouldnt let the crime necessarily scare you off, just be vigilant, keep your eyes open, dont walk too far at night, stay out of trouble and be ready to fight if you need to. The trolley is safer because it's in tourist areas, whereas the buses can go through some rough neighborhoods. Yellowstone vs Zion: Which National Park Should I Visit? However, there are a few safe neighborhoods where you can find secure accommodation, but many are super expensive. This article is trash. I did not feel threatened by anyone, nor did I see the streets overrun by homeless people. I dont know why youd want to visit Bartlett or Cordova, but they are okay, but be smart because they still have murders and theft. The largest lessons provided by the Memphis city schools is the lessons of hard knocks. See for yourself on site statistics from the FBI, statistics, city-data.com, or wikipedia. With the likes of Elvis Presley, BB King, Don Williams, and countless more, this is where you want to be if youre looking to have a fun vacation. Ive lived in Bartlett for 13 years and its been VERY safe. 23% of violent crimes were against strangers, suggesting a large majority of violent crimes are among people who know each other. You live in la la land and have been lucky. A small portion of the homicides in the town is due to gang activity. As soon as I can get out, I will.I have never seen so much depressing things. Memphis vs. Nashville - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Youll likely be humming it by the time you leave if you can get Lynyrd Skynyrds Free Bird out of your head. I moved here from Germany, which is safer than any area around here. You can be a victim almost anywhere. Your best bet is to keep your locked at all times, whether driving or parked at the hotel. Women should definitely use caution when out on Beale Street at night. But in Memphis, the leading prosecuting attorney is not doing her job. Shelby Forest-Frayser (pop: 34,952): crime rate is 285% of the national average Downtown Memphis (pop: 11,487): 3,070 violent crimes per 100k people Parkway Village-Oakhaven (pop: 39,436): property crime 7,838 per 100k people Girls wearing bonnets out in public like its a hat. Click here to get an offer for travel insurance, Elvis Presleys Graceland: (Even if you dont visit the museum, you can sign the stone wall outside of Graceland where millions of other fans have done the same thing). The safety of our visitors is our highest priority and the team at Memphis Tourism encourages all travelers to follow guidance issued by public health officials. CRIME is EVERYWHERE!!!!! However, if you let your guard down, you can become a crime victim. Common crimes ailing Memphis are violent crimes and property crimes. Thefts and break-ins are a daily occurrence in Orange Mound. Dont talk on the phone so much you dont notice your surroundings. Most Dangerous Neighborhoods In Memphis, TN - AreaVibes According to crime statistics released by the FBI, Memphis ranked 4th for highest violent crime rate in the country in 2019, 2,003.32 incidents per 100,000 residents. Dont do anything stupid and youll be fine. However, rising crime levels have made Memphis one of the most dangerous cities in America. If you go to visit especially in the Elvis Presley Blvd area Be smart Be safe. We have been downtown for years without any issues. Dont fall for it. Have u ever watched first 48? Despite the high crime potential, Memphiss cultural, historical, and musical allure is undeniable. All Rights Reserved. That's based on data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Memphis Warnings and Dangers Memphis is a beautiful city with a terrific mix of historical interests and new attractions. In 2020 Memphis reported 334 homicides, which was a staggering 74.8% increase from 2019, where 191 homicides were reported. You can also take a ride on the Mississippi River and the tourism website lists all the options. The downtown area of Memphis is located along the Mississippi River between Interstate 40 to the north, Interstate 55 to the south, and I-240 to the east. We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. If you are little cautious and avoid visiting dangerous or deserted areas, then . I visited 15years ago one of our party got robbed and beaten up . If you are just visiting, you would have no reason to go to North Memphis anyway. By the number from 2021, here are some of the risks in Memphis: Memphis has too much history to be considered too dangerous to visit, but you need to have all your safety skills, awareness of the crime issues, and common sense at every step. Is Elvis Presley Blvd Safe? Dont act like a tourist. In 2019, there were 237 homicides. Shreveport saw 9,294 . Despite the recent headlines, there isnt a huge problem with random acts of violence against strangers. Gas pumps have also been an area of interest for scanners that steal your info to use your identity for other purposes. This area is known as the Mid-South, and Memphis is called The Bluff City since it sits on the bluffs of the river. According to crime statistics released by the FBI, Memphis ranked 4th for highest violent crime rate in the country in 2019, 2,003.32 incidents per 100,000 residents. Spawn harbors a close-knit group of criminals that will rebel relentlessly if anyone tries to invade their territory. I dont know what negative feelings you have, but its false. Memphis faces a risk throughout the year of different varieties. It seems that crime here isnt isolated to just a few areas. I still Love and Enjoy my Visits to Memphis!! There is a significantly high number of homeless shelters /people in Memphis, which can attract addicts and gang members who seamlessly blend in. You can have stately Southern homes on one block and drive two blocks over to see small shotgun homes (the houses that are basic and long, as if a shotgun blast could go straight through it) and suspicious activity on the streets. Looking at the statistics and taking into accounts the opinions of the residents, Memphis is not a safe place to visit. Its more than a mile across and the lanes are specifically reserved for pedestrians and cyclists you wont have to worry about cars zooming right by you. Memphis tourism: How many visitors, hotel rooms were booked in 2022 Memphis may have received a bad rap by some of the statistics floating around. And to the person who says the area around Graceland is safe to visit you are urging visitors to put their safety in danger. Other petty crime cases expected in the city include vandalism, robbery, mugging, theft, and breaking into cars. I grew up there and am working on moving back there now. The map now is color coordinated to describe the safety of the areas. Beale Street is kind of like a smaller version of Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The main problems are related to drug trafficking, vandalism, assault, and robbery. It is also a city you shouldn't avoid because of that - you just need to know the information you're researching now. I grew up and graduated from HS in Memphis, I Loved Memphis and then I moved to California and really fell in Love with CALIFORNIA!! Theres no shortage of dangerous areas that tourists should stay away from in Memphis. That means Memphis is rough. Theres a few places to go out in Cordova but honestly Cordova is not that safe either. *Murder is calculated by dividing the number of reported murders by the total population; the result is multiplied by 100,000. Graceland is a must-visit site for Elvis fans and history buffs, but the area can be dangerous, especially at night. If youve heard the song Walking in Memphis by Marc Cohn, youll get a sample of what the city has to offer and some of its history. Memphis ranked No. 1 most dangerous city - WREG.com The city has seen a slight decline in overall crimes but compared to other cities nearby, Memphis still is very dangerous. This analysis applies to the . Tornadoes, hurricanes, and earthquakes are not surprising to local residents. Im white and live near and shop in a black area and never had a problem. I know of several people living in $500k to $1M East Memphis houses who have been robbed in their driveways, so dont let the C&VB and the foolish millennials from other places say that crime is hyped. Memphis as a white tourist? : r/memphis - Reddit I guess the cops are busy responding to all the other crime. There are severe thunderstorms and tornadoes possible, with spring being the highest risk season. 72 years. Crime In America: Study Reveals The 10 Most Unsafe Cities In - Forbes Memphis has rich people, but many people live average lives making average wages. And even many residents of the city agree that they dont feel safe living in Memphis. But all in all I really fell in love with the place and the people. Safe area-more residential and quiet. I know this because they talk about it. The Mississippi River is not good for swimming, and seeing it at a historic low can give a false sense of safety. We are a product of our environment. I dont know why anyone would move here. Chill!! Its not a huge city. Average murder rates are 52.44 out of 100,000, which includes tourists killed. We will not be backEVER!! The top areas in Memphis you should avoid include: Downtown Memphis has thousands of people crisscrossing the streets, making it the perfect breeding ground for pickpockets and buglers. Why Memphis Is Dangerous? - PartyShopMaine Memphis is also ranked with the second highes This may not be a big deal to you if you live in the area and have gotten used to it. Some of the other crimes within the city have been slowly decreasing, but vehicle thefts have been on the rise. Graceland is in that area and it's fine during the day but stay away at night. Memphis is so cool. I haven't seen it mentioned yet, but keep all items out of sight in your car, no matter where you are. While Memphis has a long way to go before its considered a reasonably safe place to visit, rest assured that it has a strong police presence that aims to maintain public safety. About 10.7 million people visited the Memphis area in 2021, by comparison. Memphis, Tennessee is the most dangerous city in America. On the other hand, tourists who are not prepared may find themselves in a bad position. Memphis - Is it safe ?? - Memphis Forum - Tripadvisor Everything You Need To Know Before, The 6 Worst Tourist Traps In Los Angeles And Where To Go Instead, Is Houston Safe To Visit? This area has a significantly higher property crime rate as poor peoplewill rob people, break into cars, and homes to steal things that they can sell for a quick buck. So you will see and here about dangerous things in these areas. I have students who are Engineering majors at UofM. However, when it narrows down to facts, Raleigh has a violent crime rate of2,042 violent crime casesreported per every 100,000 people, which is too high to ignore. You can find various walking, trolley, and bus tours on the tourism website. (11 Reasons Why), Why Are Harleys So Expensive? If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. As someone who lived in Memphis for several years, I must tell you - do NOT walk in dark streets and alleys. . Also following the safety tips posted above will help you mitigate your chances of becoming a victim. Its jarring to drive just right down the road and feel like you are in a completely different region. Tourists generally find Memphis to be a safe city. In 2020, that number rose by nearly 100 to 327 homicides. Things to know before going to Memphis - Lonely Planet Politely decline and firmly walk away from people forcefully trying to sell you stuff. Stick to the popular/touristy spots. We recommend that you stay in the main areas of downtown and do not wander outside of that area, as it can get desolate and sketchy. Is downtown Memphis generally safe? - Memphis Forum - Tripadvisor Unless your job has your assigned here, there is ZERO reason to be or stay here. The statistic about Memphis being the third most dangerous city in America says it all. Memphis can be a safer place to visit alone if you learn the layout of the city and learn which areas are safer and which areas you should avoid. If the opinion of the residents is anything to go by, crime reports have much to do with property theft, physical assault, and gang-related activities. I couldnt even sleep at night in the room, with all the hot rodders and drag racers making so much racket. Generally, Memphis is a safe place for tourists. Stay away from any kind of confrontation and nicely say "No" to the homeless people who ask for money. Most panhandlers are harmless, but there are thieves that will snatch your wallet if you bring it out. The "Memphis Tourism Blues Stage on Beale" relocates the festival's popular Blues . Ive worked with a lot of people retire and move elsewhere because of the crime even though this was their birthplace. Despite its alarming levels of violent crimes, tourists can feel more secure in Memphis if they stay away from dangerous areas. Dont touch the water and certainly dont swim in it. Whether gang on gang or citizen, they are a contributing cause of why Memphis is dangerous. This article is trash. Again, you are advised to stay on guard in this part of Memphis. We visit downtown on family outings every month. Memphis is safe if you use caution and stay away from unsafe areas. I felt safer in Memphis than I did in New York. If you are staying in an older hotel, let your tap water run for a minute or two before drinking it in case lead or copper pipes are still being used. Get the best deal on your trip by comparing deals on Booking.com and Expedia! Midtown Memphis is home to Overton Square, an entertainment district with theaters, bars, and restaurants in a charming setting. Overall crime is nearly 220% higher than the national average in Raleigh, . Memphis has long struggled with violent crimes, generally in minority communities caught in a cycle of poverty. It's lopsided, not in a good way. There are a lot of drunk people letting loose and crowded bars where it's not always easy to cover your drink. Stay in the light, and never wander into the wrong neighborhoods. In 2021, Memphis was rated the most dangerous city in the United States. The crime index here is at a high level. The violent crime for the most part happens in the North and South of the city, where you wouldnt want to go anyways.". Over the last 10 years, it consistently ranks in the to 3 5 most violent cities in the USA. The global average is around 6 per 100,000. 2023 Copyright by Travel Safe - Abroad. (2022 Crime Rates And Crime Stats), Is Atlanta Safe To Visit? People dont leave cities they love if they can help it. Or the income necessary to do so. Leading artificial intelligence scientist Geoffrey Hinton has quit Google LLC. Police warn: the 3 most dangerous neighborhoods in Memphis We were told by locals and hotel workers not to walk around alone at night and keep valuables in room! Downtown has a permanent resident population of 48,441. Dirty streets overflowing garbage in the historic areas. May 1, 2023. You can expect mugging to be a problem in most large cities across the nation, and they are, for the most part. As of this publication, the water levels were not impacting cruises along the Memphis stretch of the river, but check with the tourism bureau or vendor of choice before making plans. Here is a list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Memphis that you should avoid. But they are boring places if youre in your twenties/thirties and single. A lot about the crime risk in Memphis is what you are used to at home. In order to find the most dangerous tourist attractions on Earth, 24/7 Tempo . I wont go to Memphis without a legal gun. All in all Id go back, Graceland was cool. Is Memphis dangerous right now? In downtown, the crime rate is 363% above the national average. Midtown has made headlines for murders, violent crimes, and among other issues, theft. One spot may be manicured and well-maintained, and a section next to it will be grim and deserted. Common criminal cases here involve petty crimes that may not threaten your life as a tourist. Traveling as a group and avoiding dangerous areas is one thing. While crime is concentrated to certain areas, those areas border good areas. The most dangerous areas in Memphis is based on data from the local . Average tourists ignore their surroundings, especially the people around them. Memphis used to be cool. The 15 Most Dangerous Cities in the USA in 2023 | Travellers