Gather the recorded statistics to make your case. 

Check out the statistics of people.

@Joe Villeneuve i am sure you have hear the statistic that economists have been able to accurately predict ten of the last three recessions.

But note - these maps are updated WEEKLY because they have so many hits: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/police/statistics/crime-statistics_codefor_shotsfired 

(duplex built in 2010 with $5400 monthly rents @$706K purchase price in South Central LA, 2 miles to Downtown LA) One thing about LA market, especially these neighborhoods is that you have to know them very well, the statistics don't work here because each street is different and they can be a world apart from one street to another.  

I've looked up statistics and data but am just curious what people from that area think.

What's most important is that any provider you work with has solid, statistical figures for their expenses so they can show you what the most likely scenario is for your returns.

The town statistics also show there are more renters than home owners.

AVMs have gotten better... but they still are not reliable and most have standard deviations (remember high school statistics?)

Statistically you can expect to buy 1 house for every 100-200 homeowners you speak to.