Tempe, Arizona, renowned for its vibrant culture and as the home of Arizona State University, also grapples with neighborhoods facing significant safety challenges. Based on recent crime statistics and socioeconomic data, here are the ten most dangerous and least desirable neighborhoods in Tempe as of 2025.
1. Knoell Gardens
- Population: 153
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 797
- Property Crimes per 100k: 5,164
- Median Home Value: $158,100
- Median Income: $47,108
Knoell Gardens tops the list with the lowest median home value in Tempe and a high rate of property crimes. The combination of economic challenges and crime rates makes it a particularly concerning area.
2. Pepperwood
- Population: 3,878
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 999
- Property Crimes per 100k: 9,254
- Median Home Value: $199,600
- Median Income: $51,009
Pepperwood experiences a notably high property crime rate, nearly double that of Knoell Gardens, indicating prevalent issues with theft and burglary.
3. Mitchell Park East
- Population: 481
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 1,182
- Property Crimes per 100k: 4,410
- Median Home Value: $273,500
- Median Income: $46,019
Despite a moderate property crime rate, Mitchell Park East’s violent crime rate is among the highest, raising significant safety concerns.
4. University Heights
- Population: 1,607
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 774
- Property Crimes per 100k: 5,012
- Median Home Value: $187,500
- Median Income: $39,608
University Heights faces economic hardships, reflected in its low median income, coupled with significant property crime issues.
5. Kiwanis Park
- Population: 2,225
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 1,309
- Property Crimes per 100k: 13,242
- Median Home Value: $256,850
- Median Income: $72,091
Kiwanis Park reports the highest property crime rate among Tempe neighborhoods, indicating a pervasive issue with theft and related crimes.
6. Escalante
- Population: 5,628
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 2,340
- Property Crimes per 100k: 8,424
- Median Home Value: $163,633
- Median Income: $43,906
Escalante exhibits the highest violent crime rate in Tempe, coupled with economic challenges, making it a particularly vulnerable community.
7. Clark Park
- Population: 564
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 566
- Property Crimes per 100k: 3,665
- Median Home Value: $273,500
- Median Income: $46,019
Clark Park’s crime rates are lower compared to others on this list, but economic factors contribute to its inclusion among the less desirable neighborhoods.
8. Alegre Community
- Population: 4,067
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 2,388
- Property Crimes per 100k: 7,355
- Median Home Value: $241,450
- Median Income: $39,840
Alegre Community faces high violent crime rates and economic difficulties, reflected in its low median income.
9. Mach 8
- Population: 561
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 1,305
- Property Crimes per 100k: 11,442
- Median Home Value: $249,400
- Median Income: $53,333
Mach 8 experiences a high property crime rate, indicating significant issues with theft and related offenses.
10. University Park
- Population: 426
- Violent Crimes per 100k: 1,355
- Property Crimes per 100k: 4,608
- Median Home Value: $429,100
- Median Income: $60,750
Despite a high median home value, University Park’s violent crime rate is concerning, affecting its overall desirability.
Conclusion
While Tempe boasts many vibrant and safe communities, these neighborhoods face significant challenges related to crime and economic hardship. Efforts to improve safety and economic conditions are essential for enhancing the quality of life in these areas.