Miami is the closest major city to the Caribbean you can travel to without actually leaving the United States. Because of its warm weather, cultural heritage, and easy access to the ocean, Miami has become a popular tourist destination for travelers both from the United States and across the world. While many people have questions about the safety of Miami, Miami is safe to visit right now.
Like any other major city, it is important for visitors to keep their wits about them and remain vigilant. There are sections of the city that contain some dangerous areas, but as long as visitors and tourists learn about the various areas of Miami ahead of time, they can take advantage of everything Miami has to offer while remaining safe.
What To Know About Crime in Miami
There are several examples of violent crimes that can take place in Miami from time to time. Like other major cities in Florida, such as Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa Bay, Miami has its fair share of violent crime. Examples include homicide, rape, and aggravated assault.
Reports published by the local government show that the first six months of 2021 saw more than 1,800 reports of aggravated assault. During the same months in 2022, this number rose to more than 2,200 cases.
Even though it may seem alarming that reports of violent crime are on the rise, Miami is a city that is growing quickly, and it is receiving more visitors because travel restrictions have eased. By staying in areas that are frequented by tourists and international guests, visitors should feel safe.
LATEST UPDATES / NEWS from MIAMI:
March 30 – Miami experienced an increase in the homicide arrest rate in 2022.
The Criminal Investigations Division is under the direction of Assistant Chief Armando Aguilar of the Miami Police Department. In 2022, there were more arrests for homicide or “clearance rates” and an overall decrease in violent crime thanks to effective police work and new technologies.
Even as violent crime is on the rise in major U.S. cities, Miami is one of the big cities defying the national trend, Aguilar said.
Miami police investigated 61 homicides in 2020; that number dropped to 47 in 2021. That figure remained at 47 in 2022. The clearance rate was 47% in 2021, but increased to 70% in 2022.
What Are the Dangerous Places in Miami?
There are several neighborhoods in Miami that visitors might want to avoid. While Little Havana is widely renowned for its cultural heritage, it is not safe for visitors to visit late at night. There is a heavy gang presence in the area, and car break-ins are relatively common. Tourists who want to experience this neighborhood safely may want to stay south of 8th Street.
Model City, which is also known as Liberty City, is one of the poorest neighborhoods in Miami. There is a constant police presence in this area, but it is still a common location for travelers to be attacked, regardless of the time of day they visit.
Over Town is a historic neighborhood that is heavily populated by minorities, and it is also one of the poorest sections downtown. There is a heavy gang presence in this neighborhood as well, so it is generally unsafe for visitors to frequent, day or night.
What Are the Safest Areas in Miami?
Prior to visiting Miami, everyone should save their emergency numbers, use private transport when they can, and try to avoid headphones and other distractions while walking. There are plenty of safe neighborhoods in Miami as well.
For example, Coral Gables is one of the safest locations in Miami. It has a variety of shops and restaurants, and it is one of the wealthiest areas of the city. There is a heavy police presence, which ensures everyone feels safe even if they are out at night.
Coconut Grove is a popular place for people to stay. It has a litany of hotels and restaurants, and it is much quieter than most other parts of the city. Many people can be seen walking, biking, and playing sports even late at night. It is also very close to the airport.
Brickell Bay is also a very safe part of Miami. There are a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightclubs, and it is very close to South Beach. While people should still keep their eyes on their belongings late at night, it is a popular location for people of all backgrounds.