Relocating to the Metro area (renting, crime, house)

[RDS]

I am moving into the area and was wondering if anyone had an idea about the safety of the Takoma Park area...it is relatively cheap, however, I have read about the MS-13. Is that something I need to be aware of or is it something I can ignore?


Thanks

[nelumbo]

I lived in and around Takoma Park for 18 years - generally, I wouldn't worry much about MS13. Takoma Park is not uniform in character, and I would definitely visit any potential housing before signing any papers if renting. The sketchier areas that immediately come to mind would be near the intersection of Flower and Piney Branch, and maybe Maple between Sligo Creek and Philadelphia, and they really aren't that bad. Langely Park, which borders Takoma Park to the east, is known as having gang activity and crime.

We had the radio stolen out of our car once or twice, and potted plants taken from the porch the day before mother's day, but that was the extent of any issues. I walked to elementary and middle school down Maple Ave every day by myself and never felt unsafe. I think the area near the Takoma metro station used to have a high rate of car theft, but I'm not sure what the situation is now.

[smakawhat]

Takoma Park is very VERY safe. The metro has had it's problems but that's simply because it is right on the border with DC, so it has suffered from the border crime (assaults, muggings, theft etc..). Gangs there? you have to be kidding me... Takoma Park has to be one of the most granola neighborhoods I have ever seen.

It's a great place, I'd get a house there if I could afford it.