Hillsborough County, located in South Florida, boasts a population of nearly 2 million residents residing across 30 cities. While certain areas within the county are known for their safety, prosperity, and quality of life, others grapple with issues like crime, poverty, and social problems.
In this article, we will examine the five most challenging neighborhoods in Hillsborough County, using crime data from SpotCrime, which provides detailed crime incident information at the neighborhood level. The higher the number of crimes per 1,000 residents, the more concerning the neighborhood’s safety.
5. Highline Pines
Highline Pines, situated in the northwest part of Hillsborough County near Tampa International Airport, is bordered by major transportation routes such as Interstate 275 and West Hillsborough Avenue. This neighborhood is less appealing to young families due to both its location and its high property crime rate.
From burglaries to robberies, Highline Pines is not among the safest places in Hillsborough County. SpotCrime reports a crime rate of 64.8 per 1,000 residents in Highline Pines, which is nearly twice the national average. The riskiest areas in Highline Pines are concentrated around West Lambright Street and North Lois Avenue.
4. Sulphur Springs
Sulphur Springs, positioned in the central part of Hillsborough County along the Hillsborough River, was originally established in 1883 as a resort town, renowned for a natural spring believed to possess healing properties.
However, over time, Sulphur Springs has deteriorated into a low-income, high-crime area characterized by numerous abandoned buildings and vacant lots. According to SpotCrime, Sulphur Springs has a crime rate of 66.9 per 1,000 residents, more than double the national average.
The neighborhood experiences a high incidence of violent crimes, including murder, rape, robbery, and assault, as well as property crimes such as burglary, theft, and arson. The most perilous areas in Sulphur Springs are situated along East Waters Avenue and North Nebraska Avenue.
3. Orient Park
Orient Park, located in the eastern part of Hillsborough County near the Florida State Fairgrounds and the Hard Rock Casino, is predominantly a Hispanic community, with approximately 70% of its residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino.
Orient Park reports a crime rate of 68.4 per 1,000 residents, more than twice the national average. The neighborhood confronts a high incidence of property crimes like burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, along with violent crimes such as robbery and assault. The riskiest areas in Orient Park are centered around East Broadway Avenue and North Falkenburg Road.
2. University Square
University Square, situated in the northern part of Hillsborough County near the University of South Florida and Busch Gardens, is a diverse and densely populated area, with approximately 40% black, 30% Hispanic, and 20% white residents.
University Square registers a crime rate of 69.7 per 1,000 residents, more than twice the national average. The neighborhood experiences a high rate of violent crimes, including murder, rape, robbery, and assault, as well as property crimes like burglary, theft, and arson. The most hazardous areas in University Square are located along East Fowler Avenue and North 22nd Street.
1. Grant Park
Grant Park, positioned in the eastern part of Hillsborough County near the Ybor City Historic District and the Port of Tampa, is an older, historic area with many homes dating back to the early 1900s. Grant Park reports a crime rate of 72.6 per 1,000 residents, more than twice the national average.
The neighborhood faces a high incidence of property crimes such as burglary, theft, and motor vehicle theft, in addition to violent crimes including robbery and assault. The most perilous areas in Grant Park are concentrated around East Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and North Orient Road.
Conclusion
Hillsborough County is a diverse and vibrant county offering numerous attractions and opportunities to its residents and visitors. However, disparities exist within the county, with certain neighborhoods facing greater challenges related to crime, poverty, and social issues.
These communities require increased attention and investment from local and state governments, as well as from the private and nonprofit sectors, to enhance safety and living conditions. By addressing these issues, Hillsborough County can work towards becoming a more equitable and inclusive community for all.
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