Are you moving to Baton Rouge or just visiting? If so, crime may be one of your top concerns. The Capital City has a reputation for criminal activity. In 2022, the crime rate was 196% higher than the U.S. average, and the homicide rate was 362% higher.
There were 131 homicides in 2021, the deadliest year on record. In 2022, there were 105 homicides and 217 non-fatal shootings. However, violent crime is concentrated in a triangular area from downtown Baton Rouge to Windsor Place along the I-110 corridor. During the first quarter of 2024, about 80% of homicides occurred in this so-called “murder triangle.”
As a general rule, the most dangerous areas of the city are north of I-12 and I-10 in the North Baton Rouge area.
Just four zip codes account for most murders and shootings:
- 70802: Downtown Baton Rouge
- 70805: Mid City North
- 70816: Several large apartment complexes and subdivisions in eastern B.R. This includes Hidden Grove, Woodshire Village, Li Rocchi, Afton Oaks, and Wickland Terrace.
- 70807: Scotlandville in North Baton Rouge. This is the area of Southern University and A&M College and the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport.
According to Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse, most shootings are “very personable, highly-targeted incidents” and not “random in nature.” This means that despite the high crime rate, you are not likely to be the victim of crime in Baton Rouge.
If you are concerned about crime, here are the safest neighborhoods in Baton Rouge to call home. You can also use the Open Neighborhood BR tool from the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) to explore crime by neighborhood.
However, if you or someone you know has been injured due to criminal activity or negligence, consulting a Baton Rouge personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options and seek compensation for your injuries.
Capital Heights
Capital Heights is a walkable and safe community in Baton Rouge, home to about 800 households. It’s known for its friendly residents and cottages with picket fences. Residents are served by the Capital Heights Neighborhood Association and the Capital Heights Crime Prevention & Improvement District. Both organizations strive to improve security and quality of life in the community.
The neighborhood invests in extra-duty police patrols. In 2023, $49,000 was spent for over 1,600 in extra security patrols of the area to ensure the safety of the community.
Two of the most dangerous intersections are in the Capital Heights and the greater Mid City South area. Government Street & S. Foster Drive and Old Jefferson Highway & College Road are hot spots for car accidents.
Southdowns
This family-friendly neighborhood is home to many families and young professionals. It’s located east of LSU and between University Lake, Duplantier Bayou, and I-12. Families appreciate the great schools in the area and nearby attractions, like the Barton Arboretum and Milford Wampold Memorial Park.
Southdowns is mostly a quiet residential area. It’s one of several communities served by the Southside Civic Association. The association advocates for residents and provides safety tips and updates, including advice for pedestrian and road safety.
Village Square is the main shopping destination in the area. Be aware that Constitution Avenue, which runs along I-10 and separates Southside from Mid City South, is a hot spot for pedestrian accidents. It’s one of the most dangerous streets in Baton Rouge for pedestrians.
LSU/Lakeshore
The area around the Louisiana State University campus and the LSU/City Park lakes is one of the most affluent and safest in the city. It’s home to many wealthy families with luxury lakefront properties, as well as students renting in the area.
The multi-phase University Lakes Project, which began in 2023, has a goal of improving the area into a superior recreational amenity. When complete, the shorelines will be landscaped into “living shorelines” with a bird sanctuary and a bridge connecting the lakes. Trails for walkers and cyclists will be planned that address existing safety concerns.
Garden District
The Garden District is one of the safest and most desirable neighborhoods in Baton Rouge. It’s known for its historic bungalows, beautiful architecture, and lush landscaping. The neighborhood is popular with families, lawyers, and doctors.
The Garden District is home to an active civic association that organizes neighborhood activities and community projects. The Garden District Civic Association (GDCA) also distributes a neighborhood newsletter. There is currently no neighborhood watch, but the GDCA offers security tips and updates.
Staying Safe in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
There are many ways to reduce your risk of crime while living in Baton Rouge. Familiarize yourself with any resources in your neighborhood, such as a neighborhood watch or civic association.
The police department’s community services division also has resources for residents and businesses. Always be aware of your surroundings, do not leave valuables in your vehicle, and consider home security measures, such as security cameras and a security bar for sliding doors.
Don’t forget that the biggest safety risk isn’t crime; it’s accidents. Baton Rouge has been named the fifth most dangerous metro area for pedestrians. The Allstate America’s Best Drivers report also ranked the city 188 out of the 200 largest U.S. cities. Practice defensive driving and avoid dangerous behaviors, like speeding and distracted driving, to reduce your risk of a crash.
Contact a Baton Rouge Personal Injury Attorney from Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers at (888)-601-0127 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Baton Rouge, LA today. We have three convenient locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and its surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
318 Harrison Avenue Suite 107
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70802
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991