Welcome to our helpful guide on the neighborhoods to avoid in Los Angeles! When visiting this vibrant city, it’s important to know which areas may not be the safest or most enjoyable for tourists. Whether it’s due to high crime rates, lack of attractions, or simply not fitting your interests, we are here to give you the inside scoop on which parts of LA you may want to steer clear of during your stay. Let’s dive in and see where you should probably avoid in the City of Angels.
What Part of LA to Stay Away From?
Are you planning a trip to Los Angeles but unsure where to stay? In a city as vast and diverse as LA, there are definitely some neighborhoods that are best avoided. Whether you’re concerned about safety, affordability, or just looking for a quieter area, knowing which parts of the city to steer clear of can make all the difference in your trip. Let’s dive into the areas you might want to stay away from when visiting the City of Angels.
Downtown LA
Downtown LA is a bustling area with a mix of businesses, bars, and tourist attractions. While it can be an exciting place to visit during the day, it’s best to avoid staying in this area at night, especially if you’re traveling alone. The crime rate in Downtown LA is higher compared to other parts of the city, making it important to stay vigilant and exercise caution if you find yourself in this neighborhood.
Skid Row
Skid Row is known for its large homeless population and high crime rates. It’s not uncommon to see drug use and violence on the streets of this neighborhood, making it a place that most visitors would want to avoid. If you find yourself in Skid Row, it’s best to keep your belongings close and avoid walking around alone, especially after dark.
South Central
South Central Los Angeles has a reputation for high crime rates and gang activity. While efforts have been made to improve the safety of this area in recent years, it’s still considered to be one of the more dangerous neighborhoods in LA. If you’re looking for a safe place to stay, it’s best to steer clear of South Central and opt for a different area of the city.
Compton
Compton is a neighborhood in South Central LA that has gained notoriety for its gang-related violence and crime. While the city has made strides in reducing crime rates in recent years, Compton still has a higher crime rate compared to other parts of LA. If you’re concerned about safety, it’s best to avoid staying in Compton during your visit to Los Angeles.
Hollywood
Hollywood is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in LA, known for its entertainment industry and tourist attractions. While it may seem like an exciting place to stay, Hollywood has its drawbacks, including high levels of traffic, crowded streets, and a higher cost of living compared to other parts of the city. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable area, it’s best to stay away from Hollywood and explore other neighborhoods in LA.
Inglewood
Inglewood is a neighborhood located southwest of Downtown LA, known for its sports and entertainment venues. While it has undergone some revitalization in recent years, Inglewood still faces challenges such as high crime rates and poverty levels. If you’re looking for a safe and comfortable place to stay, it’s best to avoid Inglewood and consider other options in the city.
East LA
East Los Angeles is a predominantly Latino neighborhood that has a vibrant cultural scene and rich history. However, East LA also has higher crime rates compared to other parts of the city, making it a neighborhood that many visitors prefer to steer clear of. If you’re interested in exploring the cultural sites in East LA, it’s best to do so during the day and avoid staying in this area at night.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a coastal city located west of Downtown LA, known for its beautiful beaches and upscale shopping. While Santa Monica may seem like a desirable place to stay, it’s important to note that it also comes with a higher price tag compared to other parts of the city. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, it’s best to stay away from Santa Monica and explore other areas of LA.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Los Angeles is a city that offers a wide range of neighborhoods to explore, each with its own unique charm and challenges. While there are some areas that are best avoided due to safety concerns or high costs, there are plenty of other neighborhoods that offer a fantastic experience for visitors. By understanding which parts of LA to stay away from, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to the City of Angels. So remember to do your research, plan accordingly, and make the most of your time in this vibrant and diverse city.