Las Vegas, Nevada, is famous for its glitzy casinos, world-class entertainment, and thriving nightlife, but beyond the bright lights of the Strip lies another reality. Like any major city, Las Vegas has neighborhoods struggling with high crime rates, poverty, and social challenges. While many areas are safe and great for visitors and residents, others are known for frequent incidents of violence, property crime, and drug activity.

Here’s a detailed look at the 10 most dangerous and worst neighborhoods in Las Vegas, based on crime statistics, resident reports, and local insights.

1. West Las Vegas

West Las Vegas has long struggled with high levels of violent crime, including shootings, robberies, and assaults. Historically known for its African American community and deep cultural roots, the area has unfortunately been plagued by gang violence and drug trafficking. Many residents express concerns about walking alone at night, and the crime rate here remains significantly higher than the national average. Revitalization efforts are underway, but challenges remain.

2. East Las Vegas

East Las Vegas is another hotspot for crime, particularly in the areas surrounding Boulder Highway. Residents often report issues with burglary, theft, drug deals, and occasional violent confrontations. The area has a dense concentration of motels and older apartment complexes, some of which have become hubs for transient populations and criminal activity. Despite the presence of hardworking families and small businesses, East Las Vegas frequently ranks high on crime maps.

3. North Las Vegas

While North Las Vegas is technically its own city, it’s closely connected to Las Vegas proper and struggles with many of the same problems. Certain parts, especially near Lake Mead Boulevard and Carey Avenue, are known for gang-related violence, homicides, and property crimes. The North Las Vegas Police Department has ramped up community efforts, but some neighborhoods remain dangerous, particularly after dark.

4. Naked City

The Naked City neighborhood, just west of the Strip, earned its name decades ago and has become notorious for violent incidents, drug use, and prostitution. While it’s a small area, its proximity to major tourist destinations and its reputation as a crime hotspot make it one of the most dangerous spots in Las Vegas. Assaults, muggings, and drug overdoses are not uncommon here.

5. Meadows Village

Also known as the “Gateway District,” Meadows Village sits just northeast of the Strip and suffers from a high volume of criminal activity. Gang tensions, drug sales, and prostitution are common issues reported by both residents and law enforcement. Despite attempts to rejuvenate the area with new businesses and developments, crime continues to overshadow progress, making Meadows Village one of the city’s most troubled neighborhoods.

6. Downtown Las Vegas

Although Downtown Las Vegas is seeing a lot of redevelopment and investment, parts of it still struggle with crime, particularly in areas around Fremont Street and some side streets. Homelessness, drug activity, and theft plague the neighborhood, especially late at night. Tourists are often warned to stay in well-lit, populated areas and avoid wandering into the darker corners of Downtown alone.

7. West Huntridge

West Huntridge is a residential neighborhood with a reputation for property crime, vandalism, and occasional violent incidents. While it’s close to Downtown, the area suffers from neglected infrastructure and vacant properties, which can attract criminal activity. Residents often report feeling unsafe at night, and law enforcement has targeted the area for increased patrols in recent years.

8. Twin Lakes

Twin Lakes, located northwest of central Las Vegas, is another area where residents report concerns about safety. The neighborhood has experienced a spike in burglaries, vehicle break-ins, and occasional assaults. While some parts of Twin Lakes are quiet and family-friendly, others face persistent challenges with crime, often fueled by drug use and economic struggles.

9. Rancho Charleston

Rancho Charleston is a mixed neighborhood near Downtown where crime rates are above the city average. Residents often deal with theft, property damage, and sporadic violent incidents. While some pockets are safer and more stable, others suffer from deteriorating housing conditions and limited community resources, making crime a persistent problem.

10. Charleston Heights

Rounding out the list is Charleston Heights, a neighborhood west of Downtown that faces issues with gang presence, drug activity, and vandalism. Residents regularly report stolen vehicles, burglaries, and assaults. While the area has seen some improvements, particularly along major corridors, many streets still struggle with blight and crime.

Final Thoughts

Las Vegas is a vibrant, exciting city with a lot to offer, but like any major urban area, it has neighborhoods where crime and safety concerns are a daily reality. The neighborhoods listed here reflect the city’s ongoing struggles with poverty, gang activity, and drug problems, despite efforts by local authorities to improve conditions.

If you’re planning to visit or move to Las Vegas, it’s wise to research neighborhoods carefully, speak to locals, and stay informed about crime trends. While many parts of the city are perfectly safe and thriving, these ten areas serve as a reminder that not every part of Las Vegas shines under the bright lights.