When moving to a new area, prioritizing safety is essential. There are specific areas to avoid in Des Moines, where crime rates can be high. Activities like walking alone at night or leaving vehicles unattended can inadvertently attract criminal behavior, especially in high-risk neighborhoods. Des Moines serves as a prime example of such cities where these concerns are widespread, largely due to its expansive size and population density. Drawing from recent crime statistics, we've compiled a list of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Des Moines for 2025. These rankings are formulated based on the incidence of violent crimes per 100,000 residents in each neighborhood, compared to the city's overall violent crime average. The criteria for identifying the worst neighborhoods in Des Moines hinge on crime data that includes categories like murder, rape, robbery and assault and is furnished by the local law enforcement agency, supplemented by demographic data estimates when official statistics are unavailable.

Recognizing the human impact behind each statistic is crucial, as it represents individuals and families affected by the devastation of violent crime. The rankings of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Des Moines not only provides insight into areas requiring immediate attention, but also mobilizes collective action to safeguard the safety and welfare of all Des Moines residents. Through fostering collaboration and dialogue among residents, Des Moines can work towards a future where every neighborhood embodies security, safety, resilience and opportunity. Navigating the intricate terrain of urban safety demands a multifaceted approach beyond mere statistical analysis. This involves addressing underlying socio-economic disparities, fortifying community-police relationships and implementing comprehensive strategies for violence prevention and intervention. By nurturing a culture of inclusivity, equity, and empowerment, Des Moines can navigate a path towards a brighter and safer future for all its residents.

Population 1,488
442%
Violent Crimes 3,807 crimes / 100k people
442% more crime than Des Moines
Population 322
331%
Violent Crimes 3,033 crimes / 100k people
331% more crime than Des Moines
Population 1,403
217%
Violent Crimes 2,228 crimes / 100k people
217% more crime than Des Moines
Population 2,522
209%
Violent Crimes 2,169 crimes / 100k people
209% more crime than Des Moines
Population 1,359
207%
Violent Crimes 2,156 crimes / 100k people
207% more crime than Des Moines
Population 2,175
181%
Violent Crimes 1,976 crimes / 100k people
181% more crime than Des Moines
Population 5,358
175%
Violent Crimes 1,932 crimes / 100k people
175% more crime than Des Moines
Population 2,802
158%
Violent Crimes 1,813 crimes / 100k people
158% more crime than Des Moines
Population 2,112
150%
Violent Crimes 1,757 crimes / 100k people
150% more crime than Des Moines
Population 850
96%
Violent Crimes 1,379 crimes / 100k people
96% more crime than Des Moines
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