Don’t listen to this person. I live in a “rough” area of the worcester hills. There have been occasions where there were gunshots outside of my apartment and I still feel perfectly safe. Neighbor across the street and to the side is into some shady business and their house was shot at a couple of times, but nobody was hurt or anything. I still feel perfectly safe coming and going at all times of the day. Just don’t get involved in any drama, keep your wits about and be wary of anyone you don’t know who approaches you and you’ll be fine. Despite living in a rough part, my neighbors in my building and some adjacent houses are amazing people whom I’d even call friends.

Source: lived in Salem, Dorchester, Somerville, East Boston, Brookline, etc. & have spent plenty of time in Malden. I’ve lived in “The Hood” and in upper class areas. There are creeps and bad people even in the good neighborhoods. Just be safe and smart. People in Worcester can be pearl clutchers. Safety isn’t guaranteed anywhere.