Brentwood Brentwood is the most dangerous neighborhood in Washington DC, due to high violent crime rates. The neighborhood has a population of 28,660 people. In 2022 there were 1,715 violent crimes in Brentwood, while burglaries, theft, and car theft totaled 7,556 incidents.

In 2026, crime statistics in Washington, D.C. continue to show that the highest concentration of violent crime occurs in the southeastern and northeastern quadrants, particularly in Ward 8 and Ward 7. Neighborhoods such as Anacostia, Congress Heights, and Washington Highlands often report higher rates of incidents compared to the rest of the District. However, "safety" is a multifaceted concept; while these areas face systemic challenges, many tourists and residents navigate them daily without issue. Conversely, areas like Chinatown and the H Street Corridor, which have high foot traffic, sometimes see spikes in "opportunity crimes" like pickpocketing or vehicle break-ins. It is important to note that D.C. has a robust police presence in the "National Mall" and "Federal Triangle" areas, making them very safe for visitors. When exploring the city, experts recommend staying in well-lit, populated areas and remaining aware of your surroundings, especially after dark. The city's 2026 safety initiatives have focused on community-based policing and expanding "safe passage" zones for students and commuters in the eastern wards to mitigate these historical disparities.