Worst place to live in london

May 2024

Worst and Most Dangerous Places to Live in London –  A Comprehensive Guide In May 2024

London is a lively, diverse city with a rich cultural history, but not all neighbourhoods are created equal. 

Some London neighbourhoods are notorious for their high crime rates, drug-related activities, and poor living conditions. Based on our research and analysis, we will provide an overview of the worst places to live in London in this article. 

The article will help you do the following:

  1. Understand the significance of being informed about London’s less desirable areas.
  2. Learn about the factors that contribute to the notoriety of these neighbourhoods.
  3. Gain insights into the main topics covered, including crime statistics and personal safety considerations.
  4. Appreciate the benefits of being knowledgeable about these areas to make informed decisions about where to live.
  5. Consider actions to enhance personal safety and community awareness post-reading.

Key Takeaways & Learnings From This Page

Here are 7 key takeaways from this article:

  1. Croydon, Lewisham, and Newham are among the most dangerous areas in London, with high levels of violent crime and knife offences.
  2. Personal safety and crime rates are crucial factors to consider when choosing a place to live in London.
  3. The article provides a detailed analysis of crime statistics across various boroughs, offering a clear picture of areas to avoid.
  4. Understanding the specific challenges faced by different neighbourhoods can aid in making safer living choices.
  5. The guide encourages readers to consider the broader implications of living in high-crime areas, including the impact on quality of life and personal well-being.
  6. It highlights the importance of community awareness and involvement in crime prevention efforts.
  7. The article suggests practical steps for individuals to enhance their safety, such as staying informed about local crime trends and participating in community safety initiatives.

Topics that you will find covered on this page

London is the most populous city in the United Kingdom, with over 8.9 million residents. There are 32 boroughs, each with its distinct personality and culture. 

Some boroughs are highly desirable, whereas others are notorious for their high crime rates and poor living conditions.

The Worst Areas In London

Our analysis is based on numerous factors, such as crime rates, personal safety, drug-related activities, poverty levels, etc. 

Several East London, West London, North London, and South London boroughs have been identified as some of the worst places in London.

The Most Dangerous Areas in London

Below are the 10 most dangerous areas in London according to various crime statistics.

By looking at what are is regarded as the most dangerous place in London, you can choose whether its a place you want to live or visit.

1. Croydon

  • Croydon continues to have high levels of violent crime, with over 18,000 violent offences in the past year (18,743 in year to December 2022) according to the Metropolitan Police Crime Data.
  • Knife crime remains a serious issue, with 308 knife offences per 100,000 people (1,468 in year to December 2022) according to the Metropolitan Police Crime Data.
  • Croydon still has the most robberies in London, with over 6,300 reports last year (6,381 in year to December 2022) according to the Metropolitan Police Crime Data.

2. Lewisham

3. Newham

4. Hackney

5. Tower Hamlets

6. Southwark

7. Lambeth

8. Brent

9. Haringey

10. Enfield

Is East London The Worst Area of London

East London is often known as the worst area of London. 

However, it is also renowned for its cultural diversity, fashionable neighbourhoods, and vibrant nightlife. However, it also contains some of the worst area in London. 

Tower Hamlets are one of the most dangerous boroughs in London, with a reputation for gang activity and a high crime rate. Bethnal Green in Tower Hamlets has also experienced increased drug-related crime in recent years.

Upton Park in Newham is another East London neighbourhood notorious for its high crime rates, especially violent crime. In many areas of East London, including Hackney,

Tower Hamlets, and Newham, drug gangs are a growing problem.

Is West London Safe?

West London is renowned for its upscale communities, trendy bars, and high-end shopping. However, not all West London neighbourhoods are equally desirable.

In the London Borough of Camden, King’s Cross are notorious for its high crime rates, particularly drug-related crimes. Camden Town is also a dangerous borough.

Other West London neighbourhoods, such as Harlesden and Southall, have high crime rates and are ranked among the city’s worst places to live.

Commuter Town Quality of Life

People who work in London but prefer not to reside in the city centre favour commuter towns. Not all commuter towns, however, offer a high quality of life. High Wycombe, in Buckinghamshire, is one of the worst parts of London due to its high crime rate.

Crime Stats in West London

Crime rates in West London vary significantly by neighbourhood. The crime rate in Notting Hill is relatively low compared to other city areas.

Nevertheless, sites like Harlesden and Southall have a reputation for being dangerous due to their high violent crime rates.

Is North London Safe?

Numerous desirable neighbourhoods, such as Hampstead and Highgate, are in North London. However, some North London neighbourhoods are considered among the worst places to live.

Worst Towns and Boroughs in North London

In the London Borough of Enfield, Tottenham and Edmonton are notorious for their high crime rates and poor living conditions. Similarly, North East Lincolnshire is one of the most impoverished regions in the nation, with high poverty and crime rates.

Knife Crimes in North London

Knock crime is rising in many areas of North London, particularly in Enfield and Haringey. In recent years, the number of incidents involving knives has increased, with some regions reporting a 50% increase.

This emphasises the significance of choosing a safe neighbourhood.

Central London & South London

Central London is renowned for its historic landmarks, crowded streets, and lively nightlife. However, it also contains some of the worst neighbourhoods in London. 

For example, Soho and the West End have a reputation for being dangerous due to their high crime rates and drug-related activities.

Brixton and Peckham are two of the many vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods in South London. 

However, it also contains some of the worst neighbourhoods in the city. Croydon and Lewisham, two outer boroughs of South London, are notorious for their high crime rates and poor living conditions.

Other southwest London boroughs also have a terrible reputation.

Market Towns and Town Centres

Market towns and town centres are frequently regarded as desirable places to live due to their high quality of life and proximity to local amenities. 

However, not all market towns and town centres provide a secure environment for living. For instance, the high crime rate in Waltham Forest makes it one of the worst places to live.

London Worst Places

Outer Boroughs and Worst Boroughs

London’s outer boroughs are frequently viewed as more affordable alternatives to the city centre. However, not all outer boroughs provide a safe and secure environment in which to live. 

The high crime rate in West Yorkshire, for instance, makes it one of the worst places to live in the region.

Dangerous Boroughs

Several London boroughs are among the most dangerous, including Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Newham in East London, Enfield and Haringey in North London, and Croydon and Lewisham in the South. 

These areas have high crime rates and are not recommended for those seeking a safe and secure environment in which to reside.

10 Worst Places in Greater London and London

Several publications have compiled lists of London’s 10 worst neighbourhoods based on crime rates, poverty levels, and other variables. These consist of the following:

1. Shacklewell and Hackney

This neighbourhood is notorious for its high crime and poverty rates. In addition, it has a sizable immigrant population.

2. Tottenham Hale, Haringey

Tottenham Hale, one of the poorest neighbourhoods in London, is plagued by substandard housing, gang violence, and drug abuse.

3. Brixton Hill, Lambeth

In recent years, Brixton Hill has seen an increase in violent crime due to the presence of gangs and other criminal elements.

4. Whitechapel, Tower Hamlets

Whitechapel, plagued by poverty and social issues for many years, is currently regarded as one of the the most dangerous place in London.

5. Edmonton, Enfield

This neighbourhood is notorious for its high violent crime and drug use rates.

6. Stratford, Newham

This region, home to a large immigrant population, has high poverty rates and poor housing conditions.

7. Homerton, Hackney

Homerton is one of the most impoverished areas in London, with a long history of gang-related violence and drug use.

8. Croydon Town Centre

Once a thriving commercial centre, Croydon’s town centre has seen increased crime due to its rowdy nightlife.

9. Thamesmead and Bexley

This region is notorious for its high poverty, unemployment, and drug-related crime.

Dangerous areas in london

10. Peckham, Southwark

Peckham, a neighbourhood plagued by gang activity and socioeconomic problems, has been consistently ranked as one of London’s worst places to live.

These are just a few examples of the numerous London neighbourhoods considered to be among the worst. You should avoid these areas if you’re looking for a safe, clean, and affordable place to live.

Crime Rates

When deciding where to reside in London, crime rates are crucial. According to the Metropolitan Police, London’s crime rate has increased over the past few years. 

Nonetheless, crime rates vary significantly by borough and neighbourhood. Before deciding where to live in a city, it is essential to research crime rates.

Choosing a place to reside in London can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with the city. 

Our analysis reveals that some London neighbourhoods are more desirable than others, while others are among the city’s least desirable places to live. When deciding where to live, it is essential to consider crime rates, personal safety, and the overall quality of life. 

Before making a decision, it is essential to research to ensure that you select a safe and secure environment for you and your family.

Is London Dangerous at Night?

Like other major cities, London can be dangerous at night, especially in certain areas. While the overall crime rate in London has decreased over the past few years, neighbourhoods are still considered more hazardous than others, particularly in East and South London. 

It is essential to be aware of your surroundings and to take the necessary precautions, such as travelling in groups, staying in well-lit areas, and avoiding certain areas at night.

In addition, it is essential to be aware of the risks associated with alcohol and drug use, which can increase the likelihood of becoming a victim of crime.

Is South London Dangerous?

South London is a large and diverse region with safe and dangerous neighbourhoods. While some parts of South London, such as Croydon and Lewisham, are notorious for their high crime rates and levels of social unrest, most of the region is considered safe and desirable. 

Richmond and Kingston-upon-Thames, for instance, are renowned for their low crime rates, excellent schools, and high quality of life.

Other areas, such as Clapham and Brixton, have undergone significant gentrification recently, attracting young professionals and families with new businesses and cultural offerings.

London Ghettos

Commonly, the term “ghetto” describes areas of London notorious for their high poverty rates, crime, and social unrest. However, this term can be deceptive and stigmatising because it disregards the diversity and complexity of these communities.

Instead of focusing on labels, it is essential to comprehend the underlying issues facing these areas, such as poverty, lack of service access, and social exclusion. 

Some organisations are working to address these issues and improve the lives of residents in these areas, including charities that support low-income families and community groups that strengthen community cohesion.

Is East London Dangerous?

There are both safe and unsafe neighbourhoods in East London, which is a vast and diverse region. While some East London neighbourhoods, such as Tower Hamlets and Hackney, are notorious for their high crime rates and gang activity, others, such as Stratford and Greenwich, are safe and desirable places to live. 

Conducting research and selecting a safe and secure environment for yourself and your family is essential. 

In addition, it is crucial to support initiatives that address the underlying problems plaguing these regions, such as poverty, lack of access to services, and social exclusion. Some of these initiatives include community development projects, youth mentoring programmes, and investments in local businesses.

The article “Worst Places to Live in London: A Comprehensive Guide” provides an overview of the most dangerous part of London based on factors including crime rates, personal safety, and poverty levels. 

Nevertheless, there are additional factors to consider when assessing the safety and desirability of a London neighbourhood.

The availability and quality of local amenities, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and public transportation, are a consideration.

Lack of access to these amenities may make a neighbourhood less desirable and contribute to feelings of social isolation and economic disadvantage. 

This could be especially relevant in “ghetto” neighbourhoods, frequently characterised by high poverty levels and social exclusion.

A further consideration is the quality of the housing in a neighbourhood. Some London neighbourhoods are notorious for their substandard living conditions, including overcrowding, lack of heating, and dampness.

These factors can contribute to adverse health outcomes, including respiratory and mental health problems.

When assessing the safety and desirability of a neighbourhood, it is essential to consider the housing stock.

In addition, it is essential to recognise the intersectionality of factors that contribute to the safety and desirability of a neighbourhood. 

For instance, regions with high poverty and social exclusion rates may also have high crime and drug-related activity rates. It is essential to address these issues holistically by implementing programmes targeting poverty, inequality, corruption, and drug-related activities.

Lastly, it is essential to recognise that the safety and desirability of a neighbourhood are subjective and influenced by personal experiences and perceptions. 

While objective factors like crime rates may label specific neighbourhoods as “dangerous” or “undesirable,” individual experiences and perceptions may vary. When evaluating the safety and desirability of a community, it is essential to consider both objective factors and personal experiences.

When evaluating the safety and desirability of a London neighbourhood, it is essential to consider factors such as access to local amenities, housing quality, the intersectionality of factors that contribute to the safety and desirability of the neighbourhood, and personal experiences and perceptions.

Individuals can make informed decisions about where to reside in London by considering the abovementioned factors.

Meet the author

Rob Atherton

Rob Atherton

Rob writes and edits the content produced by the rest of the team. He has a degree in History from Leeds University and has producing, reviewing and editing the site since 2016

Meet The Team

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