Last Updated: January 2026 | Based on latest NYPD CompStat and Bronx precinct data The Bronx – birthplace of hip-hop, home to Yankee Stadium, and New York City’s northernmost borough. With 1.4 million residents spread across diverse neighborhoods, the Bronx embodies the resilience and complexity of urban America. But the Bronx also faces serious safety challenges.
According to Vital City’s crime analysis, six of the city’s top 10 precincts for violent crime are located in the Bronx – more than any other borough. And while NYC as a whole saw crime decrease in 2024, the Bronx tells a different story.
“The Bronx gets painted with a broad brush, but safety varies block by block. I’ve seen buildings in ‘dangerous’ neighborhoods that are safer than some in ‘good’ areas because they invested in proper security. It’s not about avoiding the Bronx; it’s about understanding where the risks are and addressing them.” – Joseph Ferdinando, Founder, Building Security Services a Bronx security guard company
Bronx Crime in 2024-2025: The Numbers
While Mayor Adams touted citywide crime reductions, the Bronx data shows a more complicated picture. According to Bronx Times’ year-in-review analysis:
- Major crime up 1.79% in the Bronx for 2024 (vs. citywide decrease)
- Shooting incidents up 6.6% year-over-year
- Shooting victims up 10.7%
- Reported rapes surged 22% – from 348 to 425 cases
- Homicides down 5% – from 120 in 2023 to 114 in 2024
The 46th Precinct (covering Fordham, University Heights, Morris Heights) was the epicenter of concern. According to News 12 Bronx, murders in the 46th Precinct more than doubled in 2024, with 65 shooting victims reported.
The Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in the Bronx (2026)
Rankings based on violent crime rates, shooting data, and NYPD precinct statistics.
1. Mott Haven
Mott Haven, located in the South Bronx, consistently ranks as one of the borough’s most dangerous neighborhoods. Despite ongoing gentrification and new developments, crime remains a persistent challenge.
Crime Statistics
| Metric | Current Data |
|---|---|
| Violent Crime Rate | 28.0 per 1,000 residents |
| Overall Crime Rate | 35.6 per 1,000 residents |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 15 |
Source: AreaVibes Crime Data
Recent Incidents
In January 2025, a 14-year-old student was fatally stabbed in an unprovoked attack on his way to school in Mott Haven, according to Norwood News. The tragic incident highlighted ongoing safety concerns in the area.
What’s Driving Crime
- High poverty rates despite new development
- Gang activity in public housing complexes
- Drug trafficking along major corridors
For property managers in Mott Haven, residential security patrols and visible security presence are increasingly essential.
2. Hunts Point
Hunts Point – home to the largest produce market in the world – has long struggled with crime stemming from poverty, industrial isolation, and drug activity. The neighborhood has one of the highest violent crime rates in the Bronx.
Crime Statistics
| Metric | Current Data |
|---|---|
| Violent Crime Rate | 13.6 per 1,000 residents (vs. 8.9 Bronx average) |
| Overall Crime Rate | 31.5 per 1,000 residents |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 21 |
Contributing Factors
- Approximately half the population lives below the poverty line
- History of drug-related activities and prostitution
- Industrial isolation creates “dead zones” with limited foot traffic
Businesses operating near the Hunts Point markets benefit from warehouse security services and CCTV surveillance monitoring.
3. Fordham / University Heights (46th Precinct)
The 46th Precinct covering Fordham, University Heights, Morris Heights, and Mount Hope became the borough’s most troubled area in 2024. According to News 12 Bronx:
- Murders more than doubled compared to 2023
- 65 shooting victims in the precinct
- Shootings up 14% year-over-year
- Shooting victims up 16.4%
In response, Mayor Adams launched the “Every Block Counts” initiative targeting crime hotspots in the precinct, particularly Morris Avenue and Walton Avenue.
Crime Statistics – Fordham
| Metric | Current Data |
|---|---|
| Violent Crime Rate | 328% higher than national average |
| Overall Crime Rate | 24.0 per 1,000 residents |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 24 |
Source: AreaVibes
Signs of Improvement
According to Bronx Times, the 52nd Precinct (which includes parts of Fordham) saw robberies decline 49% in the final weeks of 2024 – from 55 cases to 28. However, the 46th Precinct’s violence remains a concern. Retail businesses along Fordham Road rely on retail security officers to protect against theft and maintain customer safety.
4. Highbridge
Highbridge’s reputation for crime often overshadows its cultural richness and strong community bonds. The neighborhood continues to struggle with violent crime, including a shocking dismemberment case in 2024.
Crime Statistics
| Metric | Current Data |
|---|---|
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,149 per 100,000 residents |
| Overall Crime Rate | 22.3 per 1,000 residents |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 29 |
Source: AreaVibes
Notable 2024 Incident
In March 2024, human remains were discovered in Highbridge in a dismemberment case that shocked the community. According to Bronx Times, Sheldon Johnson Jr. was later arrested in connection with the death of Collin Small.
Contributing Factors
- High poverty rates and limited economic opportunity
- Gang activity and drug-related offenses
- Limited access to quality education and jobs
5. Tremont
Tremont, situated in the central Bronx, faces significant safety challenges. The neighborhood’s crime rate runs approximately 65% higher than the national average, with violent crimes 326% above national levels.
Crime Statistics
| Metric | Current Data |
|---|---|
| Violent Crime Rate | 1,223 per 100,000 residents |
| Overall Crime Rate | 25.2 per 1,000 residents |
| Chance of Being a Victim | 1 in 35 |
Contributing Factors
- High population density in aging housing stock
- Property crime targeting local businesses
- Robbery remains a persistent concern along East Tremont Avenue
6. Morrisania
Morrisania, adjacent to Mott Haven in the South Bronx, has faced socio-economic challenges that contribute to elevated crime rates. While it has the lowest murder rate among the top 10 violent crime precincts citywide, it still experiences significant safety concerns.
Contributing Factors
- Concentrated poverty and public housing density
- Limited commercial development and jobs
- Ongoing community policing initiatives showing gradual improvement
“In neighborhoods like Morrisania and Mott Haven, we’ve seen what happens when property owners invest in security. The buildings with professional guards, good lighting, and access control become islands of safety. Their tenants stay longer, and the property values hold. Security isn’t a cost – it’s an investment in your asset.” – Amanda DeAlmeida, Executive Vice President, Building Security Services
The 46th Precinct: A Closer Look
The 46th Precinct deserves special attention. Covering Fordham, University Heights, Morris Heights, and Mount Hope, this precinct saw the most dramatic crime increases in 2024.
2024 Chronology of Major Incidents
According to Bronx Times:
- March 30: A 2-year-old boy was struck by a stray bullet on East Fordham Road (survived). Same day, a 25-year-old man was killed and 23-year-old injured in a double shooting near East 187th Street.
- August 2: 35 gang members arrested, charged with 260 counts including conspiracy, robbery, and attempted murder.
- November 9: 17-year-old Xavier Navarez was shot multiple times in Mott Haven and later died.
City Response: “Every Block Counts”
In response to the 46th Precinct’s crime surge, Mayor Eric Adams launched the “Every Block Counts” initiative, targeting hotspots with multi-agency resources. Focus areas include Morris Avenue and Walton Avenue.
Is the Bronx Safe? Context Matters
While these statistics paint a concerning picture, context is important:
- Crime is highly concentrated – most Bronx neighborhoods are safe, and even within “dangerous” areas, risk varies block by block
- Homicides decreased 5% in 2024 despite other crime increases
- Citywide January 2025 data shows robberies down 26% and felony assaults down 6.9% (NYPD)
- Targeted interventions work – the 52nd Precinct saw a 49% drop in robberies in late 2024
What Property Managers Can Do
For those managing properties in challenging Bronx neighborhoods, proactive security makes a measurable difference:
- Visible security presence – Deters opportunistic crime
- CCTV surveillance -Documents incidents and aids prosecution
- Lobby and access control – Keeps unauthorized individuals out
- Mobile patrols – Covers parking areas and perimeters
- Community relationships – Work with local precincts and tenant associations
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dangerous neighborhood in the Bronx?
Mott Haven consistently ranks as the most dangerous, with a violent crime rate of 28 per 1,000 residents and a 1-in-15 chance of being a victim. The adjacent 46th Precinct (Fordham/University Heights) saw murders more than double in 2024.
Is the Bronx more dangerous than other NYC boroughs?
Yes, currently. Six of NYC’s top 10 precincts for violent crime are in the Bronx. The borough’s murder rate is roughly 4x higher than Queens’ rate. However, many Bronx neighborhoods remain safe, and crime is highly concentrated in specific areas.
Is crime in the Bronx getting better or worse?
Mixed. Homicides decreased 5% in 2024, but shootings increased 6.6% and shooting victims rose 10.7%. The Bronx saw a 1.79% increase in major crime while the rest of NYC decreased. January 2025 data shows some improvement citywide.
What should I do if I live in a high-crime Bronx neighborhood?
Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night, participate in community watch programs, and report suspicious activity. If you’re a property manager, invest in professional security, lighting, and access control systems.
Conclusion
The Bronx is a borough of contradictions – rich culture alongside real safety challenges. Understanding where crime concentrates, and taking appropriate precautions, allows residents and businesses to thrive even in challenging areas.
At Building Security Services, we’ve protected Bronx properties for over 40 years. We understand that each neighborhood requires a tailored approach, and we’re here to help property managers create safer environments for their tenants and staff.
Need security for your Bronx property? Request a free assessment or call us at (973) 414-1111.
Related reading: The Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in NYC
Sources and References
- “Year-in-Review: Bronx crime rises in 2024” – Bronx Times
- “Murders more than doubled in one Bronx precinct during 2024” – News 12 Bronx
- “Robberies and grand larcenies plummet to end 2024” – Bronx Times
- “Vital Signs: State of the City on Crime” – Vital City NYC
- “Man charged with fatal stabbing of 14-year-old boy” – Norwood News
- “NYC Crime Continues to Decline in January 2025” – NYPD (nyc.gov)
- Mott Haven Crime Data – AreaVibes
- High Bridge Crime Data – AreaVibes
- Fordham Crime Data – AreaVibes
Joseph Ferdinando
Joseph Ferdinando is the visionary founder of Building Security Services, a leading security company renowned for its comprehensive security services. With an illustrious career spanning over 40 years in the security industry, Joseph has been instrumental in elevating the standards of security guard services for a broad spectrum of businesses and organizations. As an influential member of the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) in both New York and New Jersey chapters, Joseph has played a pivotal role in shaping industry standards and practices. Read more about Joseph here.