Memphis is all about what area you visit, North Memphis (Fraysier/Raleigh) and South Memphis (Hickory Hill/Orange Mound/Southern end of downtown) are the two worst areas. The downtown area is actually decently safe when you're in the city center, on busy streets, etc. Don't go in to dark back alleys/areas far off the beaten path (who would in any major city?). Midtown has been completely revived and the square has all the new, awesome restaurants and bars and revamped homes. East Memphis has some of the best value for your dollar in terms of homes in the country, as we have a 30% or so lower than average cost of living. Don't group us all into one category, then nobody wins.