Is Green Bay Safe? Top 3 Most Ghetto Neighborhoods to Avoid
Wondering which neighborhoods in Green Bay you should absolutely avoid?
Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, this article covers the top 3 most ghetto neighborhoods in Green Bay that you probably don’t want to call home. If safety, peace of mind, and long-term value matter to you, keep reading.
And if you’re planning a move but not sure if your new neighborhood is the right fit, Muberr can help. We’re a locally owned Green Bay moving company that knows this city block by block. Our experienced team can guide you toward better decisions, so you don’t end up regretting your move.
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Is it Safe to Live in Green Bay, WI?
Let’s get one thing straight—Green Bay is extremely safe.
Compared to nearby cities like Milwaukee or Chicago, which are known for high crime rates, Green Bay feels like a breath of fresh air. You can walk pretty much anywhere in the city without worry. Try doing that in certain parts of Milwaukee or Chicago, and you might not feel the same level of comfort.
Even in Green Bay’s worst neighborhoods, most residents still say they feel safe. In fact, Green Bay was recently voted “The Safest City in the U.S.”
That said, like any city, Green Bay has a few rough patches. In the next section, we’ll break down the top 3 neighborhoods to avoid if you’re planning a move here, especially if safety and peace of mind are top priorities for you and your family.
Is Green Bay Ghetto?
Green Bay isn’t a ghetto city, but some areas feel that way.
While the city as a whole is safe, there are a few neighborhoods that give off rougher vibes. These spots aren’t necessarily war zones, but they do have higher crime rates, run-down properties, and a sketchier atmosphere, especially at night.
If you’re a woman or planning to walk around solo after dark, you’ll want to be extra cautious—or better yet, avoid these areas altogether.
Here are the top 3 most ghetto neighborhoods in Green Bay that you should think twice about before renting or buying a home.
Top 3 Most Ghetto Neighborhoods
If you plan on purchasing a new home or renting a new apartment, you should avoid moving to these areas:
Imperial Lane (Imperial Pride Neighborhood)
The official name is Imperial Pride, but locals know it simply as Imperial Lane, because that one street is where nearly all the problems are concentrated. It’s home to some of the most run-down, neglected apartment buildings in Green Bay.
Yes, rent here is dirt cheap—but for good reason. You’ll see unsupervised toddlers wandering around, teenagers vandalizing cars and homes, and police cruisers posted up almost daily. This area is known for frequent gang activity and troubled youth, and it’s not somewhere you want to raise a family.
Avoid this neighborhood at all costs. Don’t rent an apartment here, and definitely don’t buy a home anywhere near Imperial Lane.
Joannes Park (Near Joannes Park)
Much like Imperial Lane, the Joannes neighborhood has a serious issue with unsupervised kids running wild. This area sits between East High School, Washington Middle School, and Joannes Skatepark—a rough triangle where problems tend to stack up.
Joannes Park is a hotspot for fights, drug use, and petty theft, especially around the skatepark. If you drive through during school hours or after dark, you’ll likely see it firsthand.
By far, the worst schools in Green Bay are located here. Under no circumstances should you enroll your children at Washington Middle School—it’s notorious for bullying, drug issues, and total disrespect toward teachers. While East High School is said to be improving, many locals still warn against sending your kids there.
Kennedy Park
While Kennedy Park has made progress over the years, it still carries a reputation that can’t be ignored. This is a lower-income neighborhood with a history of violent crime, including one of Green Bay’s most tragic incidents in recent memory.
In 2019, Federico Abarca, a student at Preble High School, was robbed, shot, and killed in Kennedy Park. That event left a lasting mark on the community and highlighted the dangers still present in this area.
Though it may seem quieter today, Kennedy Park is still not ideal for families looking for safety and long-term stability. It’s best to avoid renting or buying here.
Green Bay Crime
Overall, crime in Green Bay isn’t a major issue—it’s mostly concentrated in just a few neighborhoods. Even in the rougher areas, it’s generally safe to walk around during the day. Unlike cities like Chicago or Milwaukee, gun violence, homicides, and drug overdoses in Green Bay are on the decline.
Green Bay is truly a great place to raise a family. Don’t let a few bad pockets scare you off—there are plenty of safe, welcoming neighborhoods where you and your loved ones can feel right at home.
